NATURAL COLD REMEDIES TO TRY AT HOME

Cold and flu season seems to be a constant during the winter months.  With everyone being in more close quarters it is likely that someone in your household will develop a cold and feel miserable.  But, there is no need to run to the doctor at the first little sniffle with these NATURAL COLD REMEDIES TO TRY AT HOME:

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KEEP HYDRATED – while eating may not be fun when you or your children are sick, but making sure you get enough fluids into your body. If your child won’t drink plain water, try making a smoothie out of your child’s favorite fruit, or using 100% fruit juice. Adults may enjoy a steaming mug of lemon tea with honey.

WARMING SOCKS – I learned about this method from my naturopathic doctor when my daughter was sick.  It works best if repeated for three nights in a row and done right before bed. First, make sure the feet are warm, then put some somecotton socks under very cold tap water and wring them out well. Put the cold wet socks on and then put on a pair of thick wool socks over top.The cotton socks will be dry in the morning.  (Our daughter did not like it the first time we tried it, but now she asks for her warming socks whenever she is not feeling well).

POPSICLE FOR SORE THROAT – My kids love popsicles and they are a great way to cool a sore throat. Don’t want to give your child sugar? Try an ice popsicle by freezing water on a stick. Same effect without the sugary liquid.

COOL OR WARM CLOTH – Nothing said relief to me as a kid as having my mom place a wet cloth on my forehead. I don’t think there are any great medical benefits to this, but it brought me so much comfort during those sick times.

EPSOM SALT BATH – Give those achy muscles some relief with a gentle and soothing epsom salt bath.

USE A HUMIDIFIER – Breathing cool air will provided added comfort and relief from nasal and chest congestion. Try the Vicks SweetDreams Cool Mist Humidifier which allows you to use Vicks Scent Pads for long-lasting and soothing menthol vapors.  Perfect for children as it projects images of 3 different dream inspired themes – sea, safari and starry night.

REST – I know this one seems a little redundant, but sleep really is the best medicine. Getting plenty of rest helps the body get the rest it needs. If you can’t sleep at least try to relax.

SALINE DROPS – Saline nose drops are a great way to loosen up mucus and soothe dry noses. Saline drops are very gentle and can be used on young children easily.

Of course, a good helping of homemade chicken noodle soup or bone broth will hit the spot too!

Also remember, that having a slight fever is your body’s natural way of fighting off germs and infection.  While a fever can be a good thing for your body, make sure you stay on top of how high the fever is going with a good thermometer – The Braun ThermoScan5 Ear Thermometer will give you a precise reading so you can monitor the fever.

GIVEAWAY MOMENT:

1 CANADIAN Mommy Moment reader will WIN a Vicks SweetDreams Cool Mist Humidifier and Braun ThermoScan Ear Thermometer! (May not be exactly as pictured)

To enter, leave a blog post comment telling us what is your favorite home remedy for colds.

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The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.