We all have our favourite home remedies for colds and ‘flu,
some work, some don’t but how do we choose between them?
Here are some of the most popular with some tips as to
which are most likely to work!
Echinacea
Echinacea is derived from a group of plants called
coneflowers which originate in North America and are thought help boost the
body’s immune system. While there is no evidence that they are active in
preventing colds and influenza, Native Americans used them for generations for
ailments such as sore throats and headaches and also as analgesics. There is
some evidence that they can help shorten the duration of symptoms slightly. It
is recommended that you start taking it when the cold starts and then for the
next 7-10 days.
Always check with your doctor before you start taking
any supplements if you already take medication or have a medical condition.
Zinc
There is some evidence that zinc can prevent viruses
from reproducing and although it will not prevent colds it may help reduce the severity
and duration of symptoms if it is taken within the first 24 hours of the cold
starting.
However, the FDA in the US has reported that taking
zinc nasal products can result in permanent loss of smell so be aware before
embarking on taking it.
Vitamin C
While we all think of Vitamin C when we think of cold
prevention, there is not a great deal of evidence to back it up. A group of
marathon runners given very high doses of vitamin C and then subjected to severe physical stress and cold temperatures
developed 50% fewer colds than expected but how that relates to everyday
experience is not clear. To gain benefits from Vitamin C you need to take a
high regular dose- taking it after the cold begins is useless- but some people
suffer diarrhoea and stomach upsets at this level and if you decide to try it
you need to be careful and read the instructions carefully
Chicken Soup
Believe it or not, this works! The steam
coming off the hot soup helps as a decongestant and the liquid helps prevent
dehydration. There is also some evidence that chicken soup can act as an
anti-inflammatory agent to relieve sore throats and fever. Homemade or not home
made? Well, I suppose you would need a big can to get enough steam to clear
your head!
Tea
In Ireland most problems seem to respond to a
nice hot cup of tea and colds are no exception. Again, the steam decongests and
the liquid both soothes the throat and helps against dehydration. As a bonus, both
black and green teas contain the anti oxidants called flavonoids which are
thought be helpful in supporting the body’s defences.
Garlic
It’s not just vampires that don’t like garlic,
many people swear by it to ward off infections. Although scientific research is
not 100% behind it, one study showed that taking garlic daily may help prevent
colds and certainly it is very nutritious. Taken in capsule form it will not
make your breath smell, but do check the strength of any you but as they are
not all the same and some have much more allicin (garlic derivative) in them
than others
Steam Inhalation
Whether it is a cup of tea, a bowl of soup, a
humidifier or sitting with a towel over your head leaning over a bowl of hot
water on the table, there is no doubt that inhaling steam can be very soothing as
a decongestant. Although the effects may only be temporary, you can feel a lot
better quickly. But do be careful if using hot water in a house with small
children or pets.
Saline Drops
Saline (Saltwater) drops can break up mucus
and help relieve decongestion. The easiest way is to buy them over the counter
from your chemist as they already come with a dropper. Follow the instructions
for application. They can be repeated frequently as they are not toxic and
contain no pharmaceutical ingredients.
Decongestant ointment
Rubbing “Vicks’” onto your chest seems old
fashioned these days but years ago people swore by it. Today it is still
recommended for nasal use in particular. The ointment can be applied under, but
not in, the nostrils and it will help relieve a blocked nose. Sniffing a tissue
with Karvol or Euventol (Marble Hill’s own brand) on it is also effective;
Euventol also contains Eucalyptus oil which clears the airways.
Do not apply ointment to children under 2
years of age and always read the instructions when using any application.
Saltwater Gargle
Gargling is coming back into fashion. Salt is
effective against bacteria and may help with a throat infection, while the warm
water may help relieve dryness.
You may find a
teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water gargled four times a day to be
soothing but do not swallow the water!
Bed rest
Keep warm, drink plenty of fluids, and take
some analgesia for aches and pains is standard advice for a bad cold and
uncomplicated ’flu.
Staying in bed for a day or so can help you
get over it faster and it will definitely reduce the likelihood of you infecting
other people.
Remember to get your ‘flu vaccine if you are eligible!