Sniffle season is officially here, bringing with it an onslaught of winter ailments such as colds, flus, sore throats, and other seasonal bugs. Whether you’re dealing with a lingering cough or wondering how to treat a cold, understanding effective cold and flu remedies can make all the difference. In this article, we’ll explore a wide array of home remedies for colds, pharmaceutical options, and immune boosting tips to keep you and your family well this winter.
Chicken soup remains a favourite for its natural cold treatment properties and its role in supporting immune function. Loaded with peptides and amino acids, it helps modulate immune response.
Garlic, ginger, lemon, and chilli also shine in treating flu symptoms thanks to their antimicrobial and antiviral properties. Honey acts as a sore throat remedy and cough suppressant, especially helpful in viral infections.
Probiotics, commonly used for gut health, also help reduce the severity and duration of respiratory symptoms, making them a valuable tool in treating winter ailments.
While antibiotics are effective for bacterial infections like pneumonia, they’re not useful for viral infections such as the common cold or influenza—and may even cause harm if misused. Overprescription has led to microbial resistance.
Antivirals like oseltamivir (Tamiflu) must be administered early to be effective. They can reduce flu duration and help flu symptoms treatment, but may cause gastrointestinal side effects.
Vitamin C, Vitamin D, and Zinc are essential nutrients. Supplementation helps those who are deficient, suffer from severe illness, or are under physical stress. Zinc, especially in lozenge form, has shown antiviral activity.
Sunlight boosts Vitamin D levels, vital for immune boosting tips. Fresh air helps disperse viral particles, lowering the risk of airborne infections.
Herbs like echinacea for cold, elderberry for flu, tulsi, and mullein show potential antiviral properties. However, results vary based on preparation and dose.
Yes! Here’s how:
Chilli and lemon are also traditional yet effective remedies, working through bioactive compounds that reduce inflammation and fight viruses.
Ingredients like pseudoephedrine relieve congestion, while chlorphenamine reduces sneezing and runny noses. Always follow dosage instructions.
Both medicated and saline sprays help shorten illness duration and prevent secondary infections.
Use sparingly and avoid in children under 6. Their effectiveness varies, and some can cause harm if misused.
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