Three home remedies for coughs, colds, and headaches

It’s the time of the year when typhoons are abundant and people are more susceptible to sickness. The GMA-7 morning show “Unang Hirit” reveals some common household items that can be used as quick and practical remedies for cough, colds, and headaches.



Colds

Many of us know that the symptoms of the common cold include headaches, watery eyes, fever, chills, and nasal congestion. However, not everyone knows that these symptoms can be relieved by using items that are readily available at home.

For example, a nasal spray made of salt can help decongest a runny nose. Aside from this, salt also acts as a natural fighter of bacteria and other irritants that cause nasal congestion.

If you ever experience having a runny nose, try making a nasal spray using salt. Simply mix one-fourth teaspoon of salt with one-fourth teaspoon of baking soda and 8 ounces of water. Use a small dropper to administer droplets to your nose.



Cough

Coughs are the body’s natural way of expelling foreign irritants from the lungs. Few people realize that honey can be used to treat cough. It has components that can naturally fight bacteria and it also works great as an antioxidant. It can be combined with lemon, which is a good source of vitamin C and other phytochemicals which are useful in strengthening one’s immune system and in helping the body recover from diseases.

The next time you have an itchy throat, try mixing fresh lemon juice with 2 to 3 tablespoons of honey. This mixture not only tastes good, it also helps your body combat germs and harmful bacteria. Drink this juice as often as needed.



Headaches

Headaches are very common during the rainy season because of sudden temperature shifts. One way to get rid of headaches is to drink garlic tea. Garlic contains an immune-boosting compound called allicin which has antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties. Aside from this, garlic is also believed to have components that could prevent cancer, control cholesterol levels and strengthen the respiratory system.

To make garlic tea, flatten two cloves of garlic and put both of them in a cup of hot water. Drink the mixture as you would drink a cup of tea.

– Lara Gonzales/PF, GMA News