A head cold differs from a common cold. It affects the mucous membranes of the nasal passage. coughing, repeated sneezing, sore throat, chest and head congestion, running nose, blocked nasal passages, watery eyes and mild ear aches are symptoms of a cold. Other symptoms include shivering, head aches, muscle aches and weakness, fatigue, loss of appetite and sometimes fever. A head cold is one of the most common infectious diseases and does not have a cure as such. The best way to avoid contracting a cold is washing and disinfecting hands often. Covering the nose and mouth while coughing or sneezing also restricts the spread of the infection. Head colds are more common in winter or during the monsoons.
Since there is no cure, home remedies help to reduce the discomfort caused by a common cold. Vitamin C which is mainly found in citrus fruits is a powerful antioxidant known for its ability to boost the immune system. Lemons, strawberries, guavas, oranges, grapefruits, limes and gooseberries work wonders in reducing the discomfort caused by a head cold. Getting plenty of rest helps to relax the body and boosts the body's ability to fight infections. The juice of a lemon and a spoon of honey diluted in warm water reduce the toxins in the body and will build up the immune system and reduce the period of the illness. Garlic is known for its antispasmodic and antiseptic properties. A concoction of a few cloves of garlic in a cup of boiling water, when ingested, will open up the respiratory passages and detoxify the body. A mixture made with a few drops of garlic oil, onion oil and water is also effective in treating common colds. Ginger tea made by adding a little grated ginger while boiling tea leaves is recommended. Inhaling steam from a decoction of lady's fingers boiled in water helps to relieve dry coughs and irritation of the throat. Inhaling steam from boiling water to which a few drops of eucalyptus oil or tea tree oil has been added opens up the nasal passages, cures running noses and makes breathing easier. Nasal drops made with salt and lukewarm water clears blocked noses. Adding a few drops of cinnamon oil or eucalyptus oil to bath water reduces congestion. Turmeric powder added to warm milk is also known to ease throat irritation. Gargling with a mixture of water and salt helps relieve sore throats.
answered by G M