Post date: Sep 05, 2015 5:11:30 AM
Common Cold/Flu is a viral infection that most of us have experienced. This infection of respiratory tract is most common in fall or winter season. Different types of viruses are responsible for causing common cold. Rhinoviruses and Coronaviruses are most common ones. Rhinoviruses (110 different types) cause nearly thirty percent of common colds. Coronaviruses are of 30 different types out of which only 3-4 affect human beings.
Common Cold Symptoms: Sore throat, Cough, Headache, Stuffy/Running nose, Fever.
One can get infected with common cold virus by getting in physical contact with an infected person or a surface where he touched, and touching nose/mouth etc thereafter. Cold infection can also spread through air if an infected person sneezes or coughs. Children, People who smoke or who are exposed to pollution, People with weak immunity are also susceptible of contracting common cold. If untreated, the common cold infection disappears on its own in a week's time. However in case of other underlying medical conditions cold may continue for longer time therefore one must consult a qualified practitioner if symptoms do not recede for more than a week.
Common Cold/Flu Cure
In most cases, a person suffering from common cold/flu has digestive disorders. Relieving constipation is key to curing cold/flu. Therefore, for getting quick relief from common cold within 48 hours one must attempt to relieve constipation by practicing Enema, Kunjala, Jal Neti and fasting. During the fast, one may drink a glassful of warm water mixed with one to two teaspoonfuls of honey and half lemon juice many times in day. One day of fast may be followed by one day of consuming fresh fruits/green vegetables and Dalia (porridge). Afterwards, one may resume normal daily routine of meals. Those prone to recurrent common cold/flu may take lemon water enema everyday for cleansing bowels.
Since cold is a viral infection, antibiotics do not help in cold. Most of treatments work towards relieving its symptoms. Some herbs and home remedies are very effective in treating symptoms of cold:
Eucalyptus steam for Common Cold/Flu: Pour a few drops of Eucalyptus oil in a hot water and take steam. Eucalyptus steam helps in relieving phlegm and congestion.
Peppermint for Common Cold/Flu: Peppermint oil mixed with any neutral oil is good for common cold. Peppermint oil should never be applied directly or ingested, it must always be mixed with a neutral oil. Peppermint has menthol which helps in decongestion and relieves mucus.
Echinacea for Common Cold/Flu: Research on Echinacea has indicated that it helps in lowering frequency of contracting common cold and in significantly reducing the duration of infection.
Essential oils for Common Cold/Flu: Essential oils such as Pine oil, Tea-tree oil, Lavender oil , Lime oil are effective in relieving symptoms of common cold. Other oils such as Camphor,Angelica, Bay,Thyme, Myrrh and Spruce laurel also help in relieving Sinus congestion.
Gargling in Common Cold/Flu: For relieving symptoms of sore throat, gargling with warm salted water is recommended.
Ginger tea for Common Cold/Flu: Ginger is a natural decongestant. Sipping ginger tea throughout the day helps in condition of Cold/Flu.
Turmeric, Honey and Milk for Common Cold: For soothing sore throat and relieving other cold symptoms, drink one cup of warm milk mixed with honey and a pinch of turmeric powder.
Diet for Common Cold/Flu: Healthful food is key to immunity and plays a vital role in keeping cold/flu off. Fresh fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants should be consumed for boosting immunity. Fruits rich in vitamin C and vitamin B complex are recommended for boosting immunity against cold. For relieving cold symptoms, food items rich in Zinc such as milk, nuts, yogurt, pork, crab, oysters are recommended. One must avoid spicy, processed, oily and rich food.
Hydration for Common Cold/Flu: It is important to keep body hydrated in Common cold. Eight to ten glassfuls of water must be consumed every day. Drinking fluids helps in flushing out toxins from the body. It is advisable to avoid alcohol/ caffeine as these dehydrate body.
Yoga for Common Cold: Some Yogic Asanas are effective in relieving common cold. Surya Namaskar, Kunjala, Jal Neti, Sutra Neti, Udara Shakti Vikasaka, Suryabhedana and Bhastrika Pranayama may be practiced.Performing Laghu Shankhaprakshalana once in a week will also help