Common Cold
The common cold is an infection of the upper respiratory tract initiated by a virus. A common misconception is that cold weather causes colds, but this is not true, though most colds occur in the fall and winter. Most viruses thrive better in colder temperatures when there is less humidity in the air.
Well-known symptoms include head congestion, nasal congestion, sore throat, coughing, headache, and sneezing. Most colds will go away on their own after a week to ten days, but sometimes it can lead to more serious illnesses such as bronchitis, ear infections or sinus infections.
On average, healthy adults get about two colds per year. Because children have a immature immune systems and have not built up immunity to many of the viruses, they generally catch more colds than adults.
Some essential and important nutrients to help with common colds include the following:
- Vitamin A – helps with inflamed mucous membranes, strengthens immune system
- Vitamin C – fights cold viruses
- Zinc – boosts the immune system
- Garlic – natural antibiotic and immune system enhancer
- L-Lysine – helps destroy viruses and prevent cold sores
Some herbs that may aid in weight loss include the following:
- Astragalus – helps promote white blood cells
- Cat’s claw – eases symptoms of a cold
- Elderberry – helps for upper respiratory infections and headaches
- Eucalyptus oil – helps relieve congestion
- Wild cherry bark – soothes a cough
Some recommendations for common colds include the following:
- Take vitamin C and zinc at the first sign of a common cold
- Remain as active as possible; moving around helps loosen mucus and fluid build-up
- Wash your hands often; try not to spread the cold to others