Cold and flu season brings relentless sniffles, but these time-tested remedies can help clear your runny nose faster. Backed by health experts, they're simple and effective.
This straightforward method, endorsed in medical practices worldwide, thins mucus for easier drainage. Rinse twice daily to speed recovery.
Mix 1 teaspoon of table salt in a mug of lukewarm water until dissolved. Use a syringe to gently inject into one nostril while making a 'G' sound to minimize throat drip. Repeat for the other side.
Read also: 'Get rid of that cold'
For chronic runny noses, capsaicin in spicy foods desensitizes nasal passages over time, reducing symptoms.
Incorporate spice regularly: add sambal to dinners, enjoy curry soups, or switch to penne all'arrabbiata. One spicy meal won't suffice—a single pepper might even trigger runoff—but consistency builds tolerance.
Studies show zinc can shorten colds from 5-6 days to about 3. Start at the first sign for best results.
Dissolve 80-92 mg of zinc lozenges daily (spread out; up to 11x daily allowance). Don't exceed 100 mg or continue post-recovery. Available at drugstores.
A staple in traditional Indian and Chinese medicine, onions' anti-inflammatory compounds combat colds effectively.
Slice an onion into rings and simmer in 250 ml sweetened water for 10 minutes. Sip a cup morning and evening—keep the nutrient-rich outer rings. Carry in a thermos for all-day relief.
Source: Santé March 2017
