When you’re down with a cold, runny nose and a sore throat, it is enough to make you feel miserable all day. Instead of popping antibiotic pills, try curing your cold naturally with ingredients that are probably already sitting in your kitchen cabinet. Here are 8 home remedies you can use to cure that cold and get rid of the phlegm naturally.
1. Garlic
Garlic is a rich source of antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties, which is very beneficial in curing airway inflammation. It also contains vitamin C which helps your natural immune system fight the cold. Take some fresh garlic cloves, crush them well, and have it with water after you wake up in the morning as well as before you go to bed.
2. Chicken Soup
When you’re down with a cold, nothing beats the warm and comforting feeling you get when having chicken soup. The soup can moisturize your airways and make the phlegm consistency thin. It will also soothe your irritated throat and help it get relaxed. Have chicken soup at least 2 or 3 times daily to remove phlegm from the throat.
3. Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper can help you by reducing the buildup of mucus in your throat and nasal passages. The stimulating and “hot” nature of cayenne pepper will also help you to ease the pain in the chest and soothe your irritated throat. Mix together ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper, ¼ teaspoon of grated fresh ginger, 1 tablespoon of honey, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, and 2 tablespoons of water. Consume this mixture 2 or 3 times daily.
4. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is an extremely versatile ingredient that can be used as a remedy for multiple ailments. It has antiseptic properties which are able to combat sinus infection as well as clear mucus. It also has natural anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties that can build your overall health and immunity. Mix 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar and 1 teaspoon of honey in a glass of warm water. Drink this solution twice daily to get rid of the phlegm.
5. Lemon
Lemon is a great remedy for loosening phlegm and mucus. It possesses antibacterial properties and is a rich source of vitamin C, which will improve the resistance of your body to infections. Take 2 teaspoons of lime juice, mix it with 1 tablespoon of raw honey, and 1 glass of boiled water. Stir well and drink this solution at least 3 times a daily.
6. Onion
Onion is another common kitchen ingredient that you can use to cure a cold. It contains powerful antibiotic, expectorant, and anti-inflammatory properties which can help to keep the throat relaxed and clear the phlegm. To make the remedy, toss together 1 small, chopped onion and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Allow it to rest so that the onion lets out its juice. Take 1 tablespoon of this homemade tonic once every 2 – 3 hours.
7. Salt Water
Salt water is an easy and simple way to get rid of phlegm. Just rinse your mouth with warm salt water to soothe your irritated throat. Salt has the ability to kill bacteria causing the infection thus reducing the phlegm production. Mix ¼ teaspoon of salt with 1 glass of lukewarm water, stir it well and gargle your mouth with this solution. Do this several times a day.
8. Ginger
Ginger has been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years because of it natural antihistamine and decongestant properties. It also has a compound named shagoal which can get rid of cold viruses. Having ginger can provide relief from chest congestion and clear your throat of phlegm. In a cup of hot water, add sliced ginger root and 2 teaspoons of organic honey. Have it as a tea several times a day.
