Natural Prevention Of Colds
If we were to point out the most annoying thing about winter and cold days, we would probably put getting sick on top of the list. We try to do anything possible to stay healthy and avoid catching a cold. I think the only time I wished I were sick when I was a teenager wanting to ditch school; that was when the turmoil of being sick sounded like a sweet escape. Not any more! I pride myself of staying healthy and as a norm getting sick once a year. However, I still want to avoid that.
So what are some natural ways of cold prevention? I emphasize natural because I can honestly say I don't rely on typical medication, nor can I remember buying it last.
So what are some natural ways of cold prevention? I emphasize natural because I can honestly say I don't rely on typical medication, nor can I remember buying it last.
- Cod liver oil. Of all the superfoods out there, I would definitely put this on top of the list. People don't realize how good cod liver oil is for them. It’s incredibly full of fat-soluble vitamins that support the immune system and fatty acids like EPA and DHA that reduce inflammation. EPA is the precursor of important prostaglandins (localized tissue hormones that help the body deal with inflammation). Cod liver oil has more vitamin A and more vitamin D per unit weight than any other food. A single teaspoon of high-vitamin oil contains nearly 2000 IU. There are virtually no infectious diseases that do not respond well to treatment which consists of cod liver oil.
- Thyme has amazing antiviral, bactericidal, fungicidal, antibiotic, and antiseptic properties which makes it a great natural additive during cold and flu season. Not only is thyme is known for killing microbes, but it also helps the body to eliminate toxins. In addition, it benefits the immune system by encouraging the formation of white blood cells, increasing immune response to invading organisms.
- Add turmeric to your meals or to ginger tea. Turmeric's anti-bacterial agents may help our body fight against colds, cough and flu. Turmeric's key ingredient Curcumin is known for its anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties which can help in healing cuts and wounds.
- Honey and Cinnamon. Taking one tablespoon of lukewarm honey with 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon powder daily for 3 days will help prevent and cure most chronic cough, cold and clear the sinuses. Consistent use of honey helps fight bacteria and viral diseases by strengthening the white blood corpuscles.
- Coconut Oil. Coconut oil is a modern day panacea. It possesses many health benefits that can boost your immune system due to lauric acid which is converted into monolaurin in your body. This compound possesses antiviral and antimicrobial properties, thus destroying viruses and bacteria by dissolving the lipid coating around some viruses.
If sick, take 5-6 tablespoons per day in food.