A sore throat can quickly develop into a severe cold. Above all, the body needs rest and relaxation so that it can activate its self-healing powers. These counteract the common cold. After a successful recovery, it is also possible to fulfill everyday duties again without any problems. But what if time is of the essence and there is no improvement after just a few days?
The way to the doctor is then an option. The doctor will prescribe medicines that will speed up the healing process. A very effective remedy for bacterial infections is antibiotics. However, these also have some side effects, so the doctor decides whether their use makes sense. In many cases, however, it is not bacteria that are responsible for the infection, but viruses. Antibiotics do not help against these. The body has to fight the virus itself. The doctor may prescribe supportive medication. You can also try natural home remedies.
Supporting drugs from the pharmacy
The medications that you can get at the pharmacy, such as nasal sprays and lozenges, provide relief but do not work directly against the virus. Vitamin and mineral preparations are intended to strengthen the immune system but do not work directly against viruses.
Herbal products from the pharmacy
One herbal product that is commonly used is purple coneflower extract. In some clinical studies, the plant has been found to have an antiviral effect by stimulating the immune system. However, the effect remains controversial, in other clinical studies, the effect could not be proven.
Another herbal remedy that is commonly used is an extract of pelargonium root. This has an expectorant and antibacterial effect. This supports the body. It also has a positive effect on the immune system, which inhibits viral replication. However, the effectiveness of the Perlagonium extract has not been scientifically proven.
Home remedies: prevention, exercise, and nutrition
The most effective way to fight a cold is prevention. Endurance sports and the intake of vitamin C and zinc can strengthen the immune system in the long term, which then reduces susceptibility to infections. When it comes to nutrition, make sure you eat plenty of fruit and vegetables. The essential oils of garlic, ginger, and onion have a strong antibacterial effect, which helps the immune system. Adequate, healthy sleep also helps the body regenerate and is essential for a healthy immune system.
Stress avoidance
The immune system is sensitive to stress. If possible, you should avoid this. Regular relaxation baths can also be beneficial for the immune system by promoting stress reduction and having an expectorant effect. Yoga or special relaxation exercises can also help to reduce stress again and again so that the body can regenerate completely. This in turn benefits your immune system and thus strengthens your resistance to harmful environmental influences of all kinds.
