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Step 1
Consult your doctor before beginning any home remedy. Some home remedies do not need a doctor's advice to start, but remedies that involve over-the-counter items may need a doctor's input before you begin treatment. Chronic conditions, prescription medications and even your weight are all things that may send up a red flag when considering some over-the-counter treatments with your doctor. It is recommended--especially if you have underlying health issues--that you consult with your doctor thoroughly so that you both can settle on what remedy might be best for you and your health.
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Step 2
Use your remedies as directed. You don't need a guide to use most remedies such as lemon and honey or chicken soup, but when you are trying to develop a remedy for which you have to use over-the-counter treatments, you have to be a little careful. If you are using any type of over-the-counter medication in your treatments for a cold, then you should use these treatments as directed by either your doctor or the packaging. Not doing so could cause health complications especially in people with existing health conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. Remedies containing acetaminophen (a pain reliever and fever reducer), or anything else that could be harsh on the body in large quantities, should be used with care.
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Step 3
Try not to use too many treatments at a time. Using too many treatments at a time can be be unhealthy in some instances. Not only can doing this be unhealthy, but it might not allow for the treatments to serve you properly. Also, a few treatments, such as honey and lemon or peppermint tea, often contain high levels of sugar and if taken in large quantities can make you groggy. It is recommended that you take one or possibly two treatments (weighing your options carefully) combined with bed rest and plenty of liquids to help fight a cold.
