The rainy season has now officially started, and it only means two things: One, bidding good-bye to shorts, swimsuits and tank tops to be replaced by sweaters, raincoats and umbrella. Two, the change of season means the adjustment of our body from two entirely different and extreme seasons.
And while we would love to sing to Mariah Carey’s “Through The Rain” and pretend that we are strong enough to bypass the weather, let us admit that no, we can’t. During the rainy season, cough and colds are inevitable. It is hard to focus on our daily lives when there is difficulty in breathing.
Sneezing and coughing can be such a pain as well. This is why we are giving you a run-down of home remedies to immediately ease the trouble. These, together with proper medicine, right diet and enough sleep will surely make you feel better in no time.
Citrus fruits
Fruits like lemons, oranges, grapefruits, limes and other citrus are common sources of vitamin C, which boost the immune system and fight off the unwanted viruse and bacteria in the body. Vitamin C is said to help increase the production of white blood cells that is the key to fighting infections. But there are other fruits such as kiwi, strawberry, papaya and melon, though do not belong to citrus family, are rich in vitamin C, as well.
It is best to cut it in quarters and enjoy the fruit as it is or squeeze the juice out to serve as a drink.
Chicken noodle soup
It is not a myth. The all-time favorite comfort food that moms all over the world have been serving for decades when their kids are sick can actually be considered as a super food. The reason it is very effective in combatting cough, common colds, and flu is that when you cook the chicken, it releases amino acids while the vegetables provide the other nutrients that can boost the immune system. In addition to that, the hot and steaming soup helps in increasing the temperature of the body and eventually loosening mucus secretions from the airways.
Spicy Food
Eating really spicy food will likewise, increase the temperature of your body and will help in releasing mucus secretions and act as a natural expectorant. At the same time, eating spicy foods will lure you into drinking more water to ease the spiciness. That way, you will stay hydrated. You can add chili pepper on your favorite food (chicken noodle soup, perhaps?) to add spice and heat things up, literally.
Ginger
Ginger is often used to ease sore throat and reduce coughing. Ginger contains oleoresin that acts as an antitussive to relieve coughing. You can chop a fine piece of ginger, sprinkle salt and pepper, and chew it for a few minutes to be able to absorb all the juices. It you think the taste is too strong. You can opt for the good old salabat, or ginger tea. Just boil water, sugar and ginger for 15 to 20 minutes. Strain then serve.
Water
When you are suffering from cough and colds, you need more fluid in your body to be able to release all the underlying mucus in your airways. Try to avoid drinking caffeine and alcohol for they can dehydrate you. Stay hydrated by drinking a lot of water. Make sure to drink eight to 10 or even more glasses of water. If you are not a fan of our resident H2O, you can try to infuse lemon and cucumber to give it a flavor. Hazel Sartorio