Down with the sniffles? Not all of us take the weather change well and can often catch an infection doing the rounds. And with the pandemic over our head, even the slightest sneeze can sound like a total nightmare. Even though seasonal change can be tough for some, you don’t always have to be on the run for an OTC medication or a doctor’s appointment. So here are eight simple home remedies for cold, cough, and other seasonal illnesses to keep the sniffles and cough away.

1. Citrus fruits for allergies

Vitamin C is almost like a shelter from seasonal allergies. Lemons and oranges are abundant in Vitamin C. A glass of fresh orange juice or lemon water a day will give your body the immunity to fight these allergies.

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2. Steam inhalation for congestion

This is one of the most effective and oldest remedies to treat a congested chest and nose. Boil water in a vessel and inhale the steam while covering your head using a towel. Adding any kind of mentholated ointment or herbs to the water can add to the benefits. However, we suggest you do this before going to bed to make it more effective.

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3. Mustard oil and figs for asthma

Weather change is a catalyst for ailments like asthma. During winters, in case of an asthma attack, put 2 spoons of warm mustard oil in a bowl with camphor (kapur). Gently massage this mixture on the chest and upper back. To keep a check on asthma, you can also soak dried figs in a cup of water and eat them in the morning on an empty stomach.

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4. Exercises for joint pain

Joint pains are a major issue during damp and cold weather. During these seasons, people generally stay indoors. This not only leads to physical inactivity but also reduces the intake of Vitamin D from sunlight which causes stiff and painful joints. Doing some knee and joint exercises regularly will lead to movement and will keep the pain at bay. Additionally, you can include food rich in Vitamin D, like fish, eggs, milk, and lentils in your daily diet.

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5. Cardamom, cinnamon, and saffron tea for congestion

Congestion can be a lot more painful than it seems initially. To cure this, you can prepare your own version of the Kashmiri Kahwa. Add cinnamon, cardamom, and a few slices of almonds to a pot of boiling water. Then add saffron, let it brew for a few minutes, and finish with some honey to sweeten it.

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Related: Teas To Lose Weight And Detox After The Party Season

6. Chamomile tea for sore throat

Chamomile tea has soothing properties and is abundant with antioxidants, astringent, and anti-inflammatory agents. It is good for a lot of problems including sore throats. Gargling with baking soda water and drinking ginger and honey tea can also be effective for a sore throat.

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7. Honey and pepper for dry cough

Honey has many soothing properties and it can suppress a dry cough. Paired with a pinch of black pepper powder, honey is effective in fighting harmful bacteria. The mixture together relieves dry cough and sore throats. Moreover, honey is one of the best home remedies for cold and cough and can even work better than most OTC medications. You can have the mixture as it is or mix it in a glass of lukewarm water.

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8. Ginger and honey for nausea

The good old ginger and honey combination can ward off many diseases and are trusty ingredients to battle seasonal illnesses. The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of ginger and honey can instantly relieve a sore throat and cough. You can add the two to your cup of piping hot tea and give your throat some relief. Consuming ginger juice with honey can also get rid of nausea in kids and adults.

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Bookmark these remedies, so the next time you feel under the weather, you know what to do.