How to Battle a Cold

Tis the season...for colds! If you have been battling one, and many are this year, here are a few home remedies that you might try to help lessen the severity and duration of your cold.

1. Chicken soup may not be a cure-all, but it's a great choice when you're sick, helping to reduce the symptoms of upper respiratory infections in particular.

2. Ginger. A few slices of raw ginger root in boiling water may help soothe a cough or sore throat. It can also ward off the feelings of nausea that often accompany influenza.

3. Honey has a variety of antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. Drinking honey in tea with lemon can ease sore throat pain and reduce severity of cough.

4. Garlic contains the compound allicin, which may have antimicrobial properties. Adding a garlic supplement to your diet might reduce the severity of cold symptoms.

5. Native Americans have used the herb and root of the Echinacea plant to treat infections for more than 400 years. Taking Echinacea may lower your risk of developing the common cold by more than 50%, and may reduce the length of a cold.

6. Vitamin C plays an important role in your body and has many health benefits. Limes, oranges, grapefruits, leafy greens and lemons are all good sources of vitamin C. Adding fresh lemon juice to hot tea with honey may reduce phlegm when you're sick.

7. Probiotics are 'friendly' bacteria and yeast that are found in some yogurts. They can help keep your gut and immune system healthy and may reduce your chance of getting sick with an upper respiratory infection.