With the holidays approaching and viruses spreading, it’s handy to have a few tricks in the bank to get rid of a nasty cold; experts consulted by the Daily Mail UK share unusual tricks to heal in 24 hours.
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1. Take a hot shower
A hot shower or bath can relieve muscle pain, one of the many symptoms that come with colds.
According to the Dr Infectious disease expert Simon Clarke says keeping warm can indeed reduce the symptoms of a cold. Moreover, the steam from a hot shower can help unblock the sinuses by thinning the mucus.
Hot water also helps increase blood circulation, which relaxes and soothes the muscles.
2. Go for a cool walk
Going for a walk in the middle of winter is perhaps not a reflex when you feel less well. However, a walk in the fresh air could help your recovery.
Exercise is a great way to boost your immune system, argues Dr Clarke, since physical activity would also help unblock the sinuses.
However, make sure to be well dressed during your walk outside.
3. Eat a spicy dish
You read that right: a spicy meal could help the bravest fight off a cold.
“Personally, it works well, says the Dr Clarke. I don’t know if there’s any scientific proof, but eating spicy food actually helps you perk up.”
The spices would help unblock the airways by irritating them. Spicy foods would therefore unblock the nose and facilitate breathing.
Ingredients like garlic and ginger, added to spicy dishes, are packed with zinc. The latter can help fight the virus.
4. Drink tea
Perhaps the English are right to be passionate about tea after all.
Professor Ron Eccles of Cardiff University has studied the benefits of a hot drink on someone with a cold.
A 2008 study, consulted by the DailyMailproves that a hot drink would instantly unblock the nose and relieve coughs, chills, fatigue and sore throat.
“Any warm drink can relieve most symptoms, especially sore throat and cough,” says Eccles. The theory has even been tested through a clinical study on several individuals.
Another expert points out that a good quantity of liquids can keep the mucous membrane hydrated, an asset for a speedy recovery.