What we refer to as a cold is actually one of the many rhinoviruses that circulate the world.
The reason we catch so many of them is the fact that they are all somewhat different and it's difficult to develop immunity to all of them.
In a family situation, when young children enter daycare or school is prime time for the whole family to share the discomfort.
That's because adults have a bit more immunity, but the kids will bring home just about every one that they're exposed to.
Prevention: This is the best bet, but sometimes it isn't possible.
You've heard all of the rules before; wash your hands frequently, don't touch your face with your hands, etc.
These will help here.
Don't go overboard on the antibacterial stuff, too much could make the viruses and bacteria develop immunity.
Catnip: Children have a tendency to be cranky and irritable when they catch colds.
While most herbs can't be used on children, catnip is generally recognized as safe for children aged six and over.
It is gently calming which will help the kids to rest.
Cinnamon: A decoction of cinnamon bark can help any sore throat pain associated with rhinoviruses.
Put a stick of the spice in a cup of water and simmer it down to half a cup.
Take an ounce at a time as needed.
Use caution if you are a diabetic, as cinnamon can lower blood sugar levels.
Eucalyptus: Both the oil and prepared cough drops may be beneficial with this virus.
Smelling the essential oil may open up clogged passageways, and the drops may help stop coughing.
Don't use the oil around children under two or give children under six any remedies containing it, as it can cause a potentially serious medical problem.
Lemon Balm: Like catnip, lemon balm is mildly relaxing.
It may also be a mild antihistamine, though more studies need to be done to confirm this effect.
It may be used on younger children, but be sure to ask the pediatrician before using it.
Licorice/marshmallow: These herbs can coat your throat if it is sore.
Don't take them at the same time as other medications, as they can block absorption.
If you're diabetic, you may want to use DGL tablets, as the plain root has a lot of sugar.
Don't take licorice if you have high blood pressure, as that can cause a spike.
Mint: Peppermint and spearmint may be helpful with clogged sinuses, etc.
Smelling the essential oil and/or drinking it in tea are both useful.
Like eucalyptus, children under two should not be around the essential oil or anyone who is wearing it.
Willow Bark: While children under eighteen cannot use it, adults may find it helpful in relieving the pains caused by colds.
It contains the same ingredient as aspirin, so use caution if you are allergic and if you take blood thinners, especially aspirin therapy.
Colds are no fun, but they can be made more comfortable.
It is always best to speak to your doctor before taking a new supplement or herb.
This can help prevent interactions with medications and with various medical conditions.
Give the doctor a complete list of everything you take, especially if it has been prescribed by another doctor.
Doing this will help keep you safe.
The reason we catch so many of them is the fact that they are all somewhat different and it's difficult to develop immunity to all of them.
In a family situation, when young children enter daycare or school is prime time for the whole family to share the discomfort.
That's because adults have a bit more immunity, but the kids will bring home just about every one that they're exposed to.
Prevention: This is the best bet, but sometimes it isn't possible.
You've heard all of the rules before; wash your hands frequently, don't touch your face with your hands, etc.
These will help here.
Don't go overboard on the antibacterial stuff, too much could make the viruses and bacteria develop immunity.
Catnip: Children have a tendency to be cranky and irritable when they catch colds.
While most herbs can't be used on children, catnip is generally recognized as safe for children aged six and over.
It is gently calming which will help the kids to rest.
Cinnamon: A decoction of cinnamon bark can help any sore throat pain associated with rhinoviruses.
Put a stick of the spice in a cup of water and simmer it down to half a cup.
Take an ounce at a time as needed.
Use caution if you are a diabetic, as cinnamon can lower blood sugar levels.
Eucalyptus: Both the oil and prepared cough drops may be beneficial with this virus.
Smelling the essential oil may open up clogged passageways, and the drops may help stop coughing.
Don't use the oil around children under two or give children under six any remedies containing it, as it can cause a potentially serious medical problem.
Lemon Balm: Like catnip, lemon balm is mildly relaxing.
It may also be a mild antihistamine, though more studies need to be done to confirm this effect.
It may be used on younger children, but be sure to ask the pediatrician before using it.
Licorice/marshmallow: These herbs can coat your throat if it is sore.
Don't take them at the same time as other medications, as they can block absorption.
If you're diabetic, you may want to use DGL tablets, as the plain root has a lot of sugar.
Don't take licorice if you have high blood pressure, as that can cause a spike.
Mint: Peppermint and spearmint may be helpful with clogged sinuses, etc.
Smelling the essential oil and/or drinking it in tea are both useful.
Like eucalyptus, children under two should not be around the essential oil or anyone who is wearing it.
Willow Bark: While children under eighteen cannot use it, adults may find it helpful in relieving the pains caused by colds.
It contains the same ingredient as aspirin, so use caution if you are allergic and if you take blood thinners, especially aspirin therapy.
Colds are no fun, but they can be made more comfortable.
It is always best to speak to your doctor before taking a new supplement or herb.
This can help prevent interactions with medications and with various medical conditions.
Give the doctor a complete list of everything you take, especially if it has been prescribed by another doctor.
Doing this will help keep you safe.
Source...