Sunday, December 23, 2007

Effective Herbal Remedies for the Common Cold

You don't have to immediately go to a doctor or spend much on medicines if you're down with the flu or cold. Keep in mind that nature has a variety of effective herbal remedies that come in huge amounts for free. Find out the simple yet therapeutic benefits yourself and enjoy the added soothing effects that all herbs have.Herbal Effect on ColdThe common cold usually stems from viral exposure thus there is no definite cure for it. The affected individual must rely on symptomatic treatment which aims to alleviate the symptoms and relieve the effects that come with the condition. Because the upper respiratory tract is inflamed and other parts affected as well like ears and sinuses, herbs act to minimize pain, swelling and mucus.The HerbsLime is one of the most common and effective herbal treatments for the common cold. Patients should take lime juice diluted in a glass of warm water. Lime has germ-fighting actions and hastens cell repair and recovery. It also helps a lot in minimize mucus secretions so patients can breathe easier. Lime juice is recommended to be taken 2 to 4 times everyday.Garlic is another herb known for its antibacterial properties. Garlic aids in improving appetite as well so patients eat better even with their condition. The herb can be prepared in different ways as soup, tea or juice. If the patient can tolerate, they can eat pure garlic as well.Simply cut ginger into minute pieces. Wrap it in a teabag cloth or directly place it in a kettle of boiling water. Allow the herb to simmer for 5 to 10 minutes before straining. The remaining water mixture can then be drunk to treat cold. Ginger can also be chewed or gargled after being diluted in warm water. Garlic oil is as effective especially with onion juice added. Mixing tulsi seeds with ginger is also very effective in improving breathing and minimizing sinus inflammation. The simplest and most soothing herbal remedy for the common cold may be herbal teas. Individuals can choose from a variety of herbs to be prepared as tea such as green tea, chamomile, astragalus, black tea, eucalyptus, thyme, peppermint and ginger.Another useful technique to enhance breathing is to place boiling water in a small basin. Place the basin on a table then drop a teaspoon of your preferred herb. Stir the mixture for a few seconds. Move your head over the basin and let the steam rise up to your face. Take a fairly big towel and use it as a curtain to cover your head entirely so that you get to inhale most of the steam. This is very soothing and will expand the bronchioles and alveoli in your lungs.

Vanessa Arellano Doctor

http://primeherbal.com

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