How to Treat Colds & Congestion Naturally

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Colds & congestion can be miserable for you and anyone you come in contact with. The average cold takes 7 to 10 days to run its' course. For many, taking over-the-counter medications like Nyquil or Tylenol Cold & Flu, is not an option, either because of conflicts with prescription medications, or just personal preference. Here's a few simple alternative treatments that can help you get back on track quickly:

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Step 1

ACUPRESSURE - For sniffly, sneezy cold symptoms, apply pressure for 1 min. to the following areas: web ring between thumb and index finger (using a pinch technique for top & bottom of the hand); on the face next to each nostril (pressing with one finger) ; the bridge of the nose (applying moderate pinching pressure).
Step 2

AROMATHERAPY - At the first signs of a cold, or as soon as you start feeling run-down, use a diffuser (or steam in a tea) with these essential oils that are great for colds, flu, bronchitis and congestion: tea tree, pine, lavender, lemon, cedarwood, rosemary & peppermint.
Step 3

GRAPEFRUIT - a great citrus fruit that helps to detox the liver (unlike others in the citrus family that are too sweet to promote proper liver drainage) and it's a great source of Vitamin C.
Step 4

SOUND THERAPY - Stress can lower your immune system and make you more susceptible to colds. Music is shown to relax and reduce stress levels when listening for periods of as little as 20 minutes per day. Pick instrumental music (Yoga, Massage or Reiki) that is designed to heal and restore your energy.
Step 5

HYDROTHERAPY - Drinking plenty of water and taking hot baths are two of the simplest forms of water therapy you can use to relieve cold and congestion symptoms. Or try an herbal steam treatment: Use a tea kettle to boil water, then pour into a large ceramic or metal bowl. Add a few drops of essential oils, drape a towel over your head and lean in near the steam. Inhaling several deep breaths will provide instant relief, and can be done 2-3 times per day, till your symptoms subside.
Step 6

Herb Chart

HERBAL THERAPY - Cough drops containing eucalyptus, peppermint, anise and fennel help soothe coughing by increasing the production of saliva, making you swallow more frequently and suppressing your cough reflex. Horehound cough lozenges or hard candies are pleasant tasting and also effective for use as expectorants to help loosen cough-causing mucus. Horehound teas can be found in most health foods stores.