Natural cold remedies for seniors

There are plenty of natural remedies for seniors who catch a cold.

It's that time of year again when colds and the flu become an increased problem. Colds can be caused by all sorts of viruses and leave people sneezing, congested and aching from sore throat, headaches and other issues. The problem is that there's no medical cure for the common cold, so if you catch one you can ease the symptoms but you must just power through it.

Even though spending time with grandchildren is some of the best time for seniors, kids can easily pick up cold viruses at school or the playground and then transfer it to their older family members. Seniors are more susceptible to illness because they may have a weakened immune systems as a result of another medical condition. Because of this, a cold may affect seniors' health and wellness more strongly than it does other people.

If older adults do catch a cold, there are a variety of natural remedies they can try to ease symptoms and not feel so awful while their body fights the virus. Herbal and mineral options may be better than medicines in some cases because they can be less likely to react to a prescription a senior might be on already.

Natural remedies for colds
Inhale steam: If you're congested or your nose won't stop dripping, try inhaling steam. Boil a pot of water then lean over it and breathe through your nose. Take really deep inhales and exhales. If it feels like the steam if burning your nose, breathe even slower. This can help ease the congested feeling. As a bonus, the slow, rhythmic breathing mimics meditation, so you'll feel calmer and more relaxed after this.

Use saline solution: Saline sprays and solutions are made with salt and help clear our your nasal passage. You can use a spray inhaled into the nose or a device like a Neti pot to break down congestion. With a Neti pot – which looks like a tiny tea pot – you mix a solution of salt and warm water. Then, place the spout snuggly into one nostril and tilt your head. It will feel funny, but the solution will work its ways through your nasal passage and drip out the other nostril. Repeat on the other side to ensure both are clear. Be sure to do this over a sink and wash the Neti pot after each use to avoid spreading germs. Salt water is also great to gargle with if you're suffering from a sore throat to lessen the pain and scratchiness.

Garlic: Garlic is an antimicrobial herb that also works as an antiseptic and reduces inflammation. It can help with a stuffy nose and relieve heavy puffiness from around your eyes. If you feel a cold coming on, you can take a garlic supplement in pill form or, of course, cook with it in abundance. You can make a garlic broth by adding minced cloves to chicken broth and bring it to a boil.

Herbal tea: Drinking hot liquids like herbal tea can make you feel better all over when you have a cold. Heated beverages can help ease congestion, keep you hydrated and soothe a sore throat. Peppermint tea is great because peppermint can reduce inflammation and kills viruses and bacteria. It's safe for seniors to drink, and it also helps with digestion problems and reduces heartburn.

Apply heat: Another great way to help congested sinuses is to apply direct heat. You can get reusable hot pack or soak a washcloth in hot water. Test the heat to make sure it's too too hot then apply across your eyes for a wonderful, warming sensation and relief from irritating sinus pressure.

Source: medicare.com