When to see a doctor

Colds and coughs are all around, this season. But sometimes, before rushing off to the doctor, a quick and easy home remedy helps

Most colds and bouts of flu go away by themselves, see a doctor if you have:

A cough that produces green, yellow, or bloody phlegm.
A severe headache or pain in the face, jaw or ear.
Trouble swallowing or breathing.
A fever over 100°F that lasts more than 48 hours.

Natural home remedies:
Drink plenty of fluids when you have a cold – in order to combat dehydration and keep mucus on the move. Include plenty of water and hot drinks made with the juice of a lemon and a teaspoon of honey with turmeric powder in a hot glass of water.

The lemon juice is rich in vitamin C and the honey helps to soothe a sore throat and turmeric is a anti-histamine.

A herbal infusion of ginger, honey, lemon and basil boiled in water and sipped throughout the day is an amazing drink to clean your nose.

A traditional hot toddy, made with lemon and honey, a single measure of brandy and boiling water is a time honoured remedy for cold. It may not be borne out by scientific research, but it is comforting and soothing and may help you to sleep.

Inhale steam to relieve a stuffed up nose. Fill half a bowl with hot water, put a towel over your head to trap the steam and inhale for a few minutes at a time. Add some eucalyptus oil to the water for an effective decongestant.

Aromatherapy oils can be used to keep the nasal passages clear. Take 5 drops of eucalyptus and rub it on your chest. Allow your body to rest and recover when suffering from a bout of cold or flu.

If you insist on carrying on as normal, you will hinder the body’s cold fighting efforts and spread the infection to other people. Taking time off at the onset of a cold will help to shorten its duration.

Note: A pregnant woman should not take mega doses of Vitamin C or indeed any other vitamin because of potential harm to the unborn child.

Tips:
Eat organic food as much as possible.
Fluids plenty to help prevent dehydration
Include deep breathing as it helps to decongest.
When you feel well enough, take a gentle walk and get some fresh air.