The symptoms of common-cold-induced nasal congestion may be very similar to the congestion caused by allergies. The underlying causes of both have to do with a malfunctioning immune system.
Cold viruses are always in our environment, and whether you catch a cold is a function of how healthy you are and how well your immune system is working. Cold symptoms are caused when a cold virus attacks and kills cells, which then release substances that cause inflammation, mucus production, and infection, and possibly a slight fever. Most colds will resolve within five to seven days. If you take care of yourself by getting plenty of rest and warm fluids and eating wholesome food, a cold can resolve itself within three days.
Symptoms of influenza or flu virus tend to be more severe, including a higher fever, aches, chills, and nausea.
Neither a cold nor flu can be effectively treated with an antibiotic. Antibiotics kill bacteria, and colds and flu is caused by viruses. While a cold or flu can cause a bacterial infection, you are best off allowing your own body to fight it and heal it unless a doctor determines that you are at risk for pneumonia or some other serious infectious disease.
Quercetin is arguably the most powerful and effective natural remedy for allergies. In most people it effectively dries out the mucus membranes and helps quiet the inflammation that can irritate nasal passages. Quercetin is a powerful antioxidant flavonoid. Other important bioflavonoids include those found in grapeseed extract and green tea.Vitamin C is a well-known natural remedy. Your tolerance for vitamin C can increase dramatically when you have allergies, a cold, or a flu.Cold or Flu, you should consider these natural remedies high on you list of priorities.
- Vitamin C
- Quercetin
- Astragalus
- Echinacea
- Ginger
- Turmeric
- Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5)
- Omega-3 Fats: EPA from Fish
- Aalpha-linolenic acid
- Bee Pollen Remedies