1 - Take Herbs - the Right Way
Echinacia is a well known cold fighting tool - if used the right way. David Winston - a New Jersey based clinical herbalist - states that you need a much larger dose than those typically printed on the product label in order to get the full effect. David recommends 3/4 teaspoon serving every two to three hours at the onset of symptoms. It is important to continue this dosage for a few days after the symptoms subside to ensure that the cold doesn't return.
For an added boost to your immune system, David suggests pairing echinacea with the herb amla (aka - Indian gooseberry). This adaptogen builds resistance to a variety of stressors.
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2 - Put the Kettle On
Hot tea is incredibly theraputic. It's also very effective in soothing a cold. Hot tea moistens mucous membranes which helps bring relief to cold symptoms. Green tea is especially powerful in keeping a cold at bay by. Green tea is full of powerful antioxidants known to kill or inhibit the growth of certain viruses. Studies have shown that drinking 3 cups of green tea per day can be effective as a preventative measure in fending off colds.
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3 - Pop Some Probiotics
Probiotics aren't just good for taming tummy troubles. They also can aid in lessening the length and severity of a cold. Probiotics help stimulate white blood cells which help build your defenses against cold viruses. The British Journal of Sports Medicine did a study that found taking daily doses of probiotics led a major decline in cold symptoms among a group of athletes. A naturopathic doctor from Costa Mesa, California, Suzanne Tang, suggests taking probiotics in refrigerated capsule form. It should contain 10 billion Lactobacillus gasseri, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium longum, and Bifidobacterium bifdum.
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4 - Don't Ditch Your Workout
Fight the urge to go into a state of complete inactivity. Rest has its place when it comes to fending off a cold, but so does exercise. According to Tang, moderate exercise might enhance your immunity and shorten the life of your cold. Just be careful not to overdo it or you'll defeat the purpose. Attempt to get 1/2 hour of moderate intensity activity per day during your cold such as a brisk walk or bike ride. Another gentle option is Thai chi. It can be gentle yet effective at warding off viral infections. When it comes time to sleep, go to bed early and endeavor to get your full 8 hours of sleep.
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