How To: Get Rid Of A Cold Before It Starts
You wake up in the morning after your alarm has been snoozed three times and you feel it…the dreaded sore throat. There’s no possible way you can be getting sick! The weekend is coming up and, well, life is happening still!
So let’s get rid of it shall we?
Every oncoming cold that begins with a sore throat can be stopped before it turns into a full blown sneezing and coughing attack. I have used this in my own life and have seen it work time and again with others (family, friends, patients).
The Science: What causes the common cold?
Rhinovirus– a virus that thrives in cold environments less than 30C. Hence, why you feel that scratchy feeling in the back of your throat; the virus loves that cool air coming in and out of your mouth as you breathe.
How do we get rid of the little bugger?
If it likes cool air…let’s zap it with the opposite.
1. Steam Room– The Best and Most Effective Option (in my opinion)
Science– Rhinovirus loves cool air. We now have to change its environment it wants to thrive in. Heat it up!
How– Sit in a steam room for 15 minutes and breathe deeply with your mouth open. This must be done the day you wake up with a sore throat, or it most likely will not work; the virus will spread after that.
*Be sure to speak with your doctor before entering in a steam room.
Alternative- Boil Hot Water and breathe in the steam
Alternative- Drink hot tea – not as effective, but better than nothing.
2. Oregano Oil– Unfortunately, I am not talking about the capsule form of Oil of Oregano. Yes, the actual oil poured straight down your throat will kill the bug before it spreads. The taste is not pleasant, but I’d take a couple minutes of bad breath, than 4-6 days of being down and out any day.
Science– Oregano is a powerful germ killer (viruses, bacteria, fungi, parasites). It contains Phenolic compounds, which contain antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties used to kill germs.
How– Get pure Oil of Oregano in a glass bottle with a dropper (I get mine at Whole Foods). Fill half of the dropper with the oil and dispense as close to the back of your throat as possible. I recommend a chaser of juice. Repeat 2-3x per day at the onset of a sore throat. *Make sure to read the ‘Directions’ on the back àit should say that you are allowed to pour directly in your mouth. Not have to mix it with anything*
Amazon – Natural Factors Oil of Oregano
*Talk to your physician before taking. Do not take if you are breastfeeding or pregnant. Avoid using it if you’re allergic to mint, sage, basil, or lavender. Avoid using if have a clotting disorder.*
3. Hot Chicken Soup- Just Reduces Cold Symptoms
I learned the science behind how chicken soup helped reduced cold symptoms during medical school and it blew my mind! Mom’s Chicken Soup really does help.
Science– Cold symptoms occur due to White Blood Cells (WBCs) migrating to the upper respiratory tract. Ingredients in chicken soup have anti-inflammatory properties; not allowing WBCs to migrate as much --> Reducing symptoms.
How– Make sure the chicken soup contains ginger, chicken, parsnips, carrots, turnips, celery, parsley & oregano.
Chicken broth is best- I recommend Kettle & Fire
Getting the common cold is inevitable, it seems, during every winter season. Try these remedies when you feel that scratchy throat, and you’ll be amazed. Let me know how they work for you!
Kirin :)
