Fact: There is no cure for the common cold. But that didn't stop experts from suggesting innovative means to try preventing one
Fact: There is no cure for the common cold. But that didn't stop experts from suggesting innovative means to try preventing one
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With temperatures dipping, tissues are suddenly the Mumbaikar's most popular accessory. Armed with instant 
inhalers and eucalyptus oil capsules to cut and dunk on to handkerchiefs, he goes about his work resigned to the fact that there is no cure for the common cold.
If it makes him feel any better, here are some reassuring words from experts. Despite all the scientific and technological advancements made, the cold virus continues to thrive all over the world. But a cold can actually help your body develop antibodies, making it less prone to pneumonia, research suggests.
What causes a cold?
Colds are most commonly caused by the rhinovirus, of which over 200 strains end up infecting humans. Characterised by a runny nose, nasal congestion, headaches and sneezing, the cold virus is a self-limiting one that loses strength, when the body creates antibodies to fight it. Dr Khusrav Bajan, Consultant Physician with PD Hinduja Hospital advises you to let the common cold run its course since antibiotics are of little help against viruses. Instead, you can focus on washing your hands frequently with soap or hand sanitizers.
What's weather got to do with it?
The common cold is more frequent during a change in weather since the body tries to adjust to the change in temperature and humidity. Dr Bajan claims to have noticed a 10% rise in cases since last year, largely due to pollution, erratic weather changes due to global warming, and large-scale migration that leads to people living in overcrowded areas where the virus can spread faster.
Stick to namaste
Since the virus spreads through physical contact, Dr Neha Seth, Consultant Homeopath with Saifee Hospital suggests you stick to the traditional namaste. It's a safer option than shaking hands.u00a0
Opt for a change in lifestyle
"Don't skip breakfast, follow a high-protein diet and make it a point to vacuum your home at least twice a week, since colds can also be an allergic reaction to dust. Relaxing works wonders because a stress build-up reduces immunity levels further," says Dr Seth.
Bizarre!
Taking cold showers helps boost immunity. The shock of the cold water raises the body temperature, and destroys the virus. But make sure you try this in summer, not winter.
We bet, you didn't know
> If you sleep for less than 7 hours every night, you are three times more likely to develop a cold as compared to someone who sleeps more.
> If you have a history of smoking, it extends the duration of your cold by three days.
> Rhinoviruses can live up to 3 hours on human skin. They can also survive for up to 3 hours on telephones.
Children, elderly, pregnant women, smokers are at greater risk since their immunity levels are low.
Kitchen Remedies to
Cure throat infection
Mix 1 teaspoon of dry ginger with 3 teaspoons of jaggery, 1 teaspoon of turmeric and a pinch of salt. Mix this with a spoonful of cow's ghee to bind the mixture together. Make small pills and consume every 2-3 hours. This concoction is beneficial for coping with throat infection, fever and tonsillitis.
Boost immunity
Eat 8-10 fresh tulsi leaves in the morning or evening. Tulsi has anti-bacterial properties, boosts immunity and is four times more effective than streptomycin. Avoid sugar and salt as it weakens the immune system.u00a0
Ease a cold
Boil 5 tulsi leaves, 5 mint leaves, half-inch piece of fresh ginger, 10 grammes of lemongrass or tea, and 3 pieces of black pepper in water. Strain the mixture and drink the water.
cure a runny nose
Eat 5 pineapple slices a day; it has high levels of phosphorus.
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