Managing Cold and Fever Naturally – Chills and fever are usually part of our body’s natural response for fighting an infection. Instead of running to heavy medications very quickly, many people will try natural remedies that will help support the immune system and help to ease any discomfort while healing is taking place. We can take small steps or find easy home treatments to relieving symptoms and gain your strength back quickly.
Managing Cold and Fever Naturally – Cold and Fever – Common Causes
It’s useful to know why conditions exist before you consider natural alternatives:
- Viral infections, like cold or flu
- A compromised immune response or season
- Stress, anxiety, or rest
- Nutritional deficiencies that can compromise the immune system
Managing Cold and Fever Naturally – Knowing the cause of a condition can guide you towards thinking of solutions that are suitable to the body’s innate response system.
Managing Cold and Fever Naturally – Stay Hydrated with Herbal Infusions
- Drinks served warm such as ginger tea, tulsi (holy basil) tea or chamomile tea are comforting to the throat and help keep you hydrated.
- Lukewarm honey water can ease cough and help provide natural energy.
Boost Immunity with Vitamin-Rich Foods
- Citrus fruits (e.g. oranges, lemons, amla [or Indian gooseberry]) have vitamin C which may increase the immune response.
- Fresh vegetables, soups and broths aid recovery without stressing the digestive system.
Rest and Warmth
- Getting enough rest helps the body focus on healing.
- Keeping warm with light blankets will help stay stable (i.e. not increase the fluctuation of temperature, which worsens symptoms).
Steam Inhalation for Congestion
- Steam inhalation with some drops of eucalyptus or peppermint oil can help open up nasal passages.
- It treats nasal congestion without the use of drugs, and can alleviate some congestion and allow for ease of breathing.
Turmeric and Black Pepper Milk
- An established home remedy with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
- Mix ½ tsp of turmeric powder and a pinch of black pepper in warm milk, and drink before bed.
Salt Water Gargle
- Gargling warm salt water can help ease throat irritation associated with colds and sinus drainage, while clear mucus build up.
- It’s recommended to gargle with warm salt water twice daily for best result.
Managing Cold and Fever Naturally – When to Seek Medical Attention
Managing Cold and Fever Naturally – Home remedies sometimes work, but don’t take risks if any of the following appears:
- Fever lasts longer than 3 days
- Difficulty breathing
- Severe sore throat or severe ear pain
Managing Cold and Fever Naturally – Conclusion
Managing Cold and Fever Naturally – Drinking fluids, eating healthy foods, herbal sticky remedies, and finding the time to rest are all valuable elements for the body’s ability to respond naturally to its immune response, and recover. If you can utilize any of these options effectively (holistically) you will not only reduce your discomfort, but you will aid towards a more powerful immune system, long term. It is always appropriate to listen to your body, and take thoughtful action; overall it may translate into going down a less symptomatic, easier, quicker path.
