Hoping to avoid a …
Sore throat or cough?
· Saline rinses (whether store-bought or homemade) have been shown to mitigate infections and soothe symptoms.
· Thyme, incorporated into foods, oils, or syrups, may help in the treatment of coughs and inflammation.
· Zinc lozenges or syrups may reduce the duration of a cold when taken within 24 hours of initial symptoms.
· Other remedies include elderberry, honey, echinacea, and herbal teas or lozenges.
Congestion?
· Capsaicin, the active ingredient in chili peppers, may be effective for flushing out irritants and decreasing nasal inflammation.
· Herbal teas, like chamomile, ginger, or mint, possess antihistamine and anti-inflammatory properties.
· Menthol is a major component of peppermint and can be taken separately to help soothe sinuses and calm the stomach.
· Other remedies include vitamin C, ginger extract, and steam inhalation.
Headache?
· B vitamins, including B1, B6, B9, and B12, may help to relieve and prevent the recurrence of headaches.
· Electrolytes help in fluid retention and hydration; dehydration is a common cause of headaches.
· Magnesium regulates nerve functions; studies show that magnesium may help reduce headache frequency and intensity.
· Other remedies include peppermint oil, omega-3s, CoQ10, and frequent fluid intake.
Stiff or sore muscles?
· Tart cherry juice is rich in antioxidants and may help to reduce muscle inflammation.
· Omega-3s are healthy fats that may help to reduce muscle pain and soreness.
· Cannabidiol, or CBD, research has shown some promise in helping to reduce muscle pain.
· Other remedies include magnesium, turmeric, collagen, and warm baths.
Weakened immune system?
· Echinacea has immunostimulant properties and is antiviral to at least one strain of the common cold.
· Curcumin, found in turmeric, has potent antiviral properties and may help reduce the length of colds.
· Quercetin interrupts the replicability of some viral cells, which may help in diminishing symptoms and infectiousness.
· Other remedies include electrolytes, vitamin drinks, zinc, and medicinal mushrooms.
Fever or chills?
· Ginseng may help reduce inflammation, clear airways, and activate the immune system.
· Melatonin and glycine are sleep-aids that may help in getting rest when a fever or chill is otherwise disrupting sleep.
· Garlic has been found to contain organosulphur compounds that enhance the body’s immune response.
· Other remedies include holy basil, elderberry, herbal teas, and bed rest.
Fatigue?
· Green tea provides L-theanine and low caffeine, which may help boost energy without causing jitters.
· Iron allows red blood cells to distribute oxygen effectively; low iron can lead to chronic fatigue.
· Vitamin D deficiencies have been linked to increased fatigue and susceptibility to infection.
· Other remedies include vitamin B12, ashwagandha, exercise, and a balanced diet.
Gastrointestinal distress?
· Digestive enzymes, like protease, lipase, amylase, and lactase, may help reduce bloating and cramping.
· Pre- and probiotics work together to feed and distribute the helpful micro-organisms that aid in digestion.
· Psyllium husk is a source of soluble and insoluble fibre that gently relieves constipation and prevents stomach pain.
This article was originally published in the September 2024 issue of alive magazine.