Pregnancy is a special gift from God that comes with a responsibility to carry, nurture and protect the unborn child. However, this task, comes with some risks exposure on the side of the mother which cause the immune system to weaken, and may lead to a cold.
A runny or stuffy nose along with other symptoms of cold can cause extreme discomfort to pregnant women, and taking over-the-counter medicines is not considered safe either. However, natural remedies are certainly a recommended option. In the following article, we shall discuss easy and safe natural remedies for cold during pregnancy that you can effectively use to feel better.
Here are some remedies, according to parenting.firstcry.com:
1. Coconut Oil: This is widely known for its antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties. The presence of concentrated levels of lauric acid in coconut oil works really well in destroying the lipid coating around the virus and disintegrating the virus envelop, inhibiting maturation, and preventing binding of viral proteins to host cell membrane. Coconut oil is very safe during pregnancy, and it can be used both, internally and topically. You may add a spoonful of edible coconut oil in any hot beverage to get relief from cold.
2. Garlic: This works well in getting rid of cold in pregnancy. It is jam-packed with antibacterial, antiseptic, and antiviral properties, and thus, helps in combating the cold-causing viruses and bacteria. According to some medical studies, garlic is also effective in lowering blood pressure, promoting blood circulation, and maintaining cholesterol levels during pregnancy. The presence of allicin found in whole garlic provides all these benefits in pregnancy.
3. Ginger: One of the best home remedies for cold during pregnancy is ginger. This wondrous spice is known for its warming properties. It helps in improving blood circulation and fighting infection-causing bacteria and viruses. Alternatively, ginger may also get you relief from heartburns in pregnancy. Take a small piece of ginger, crush or grate it, and boil it in water. Add lemon and honey, and drink.
4. Onion: This is one of the most effective ayurvedic remedies for cold and cough during pregnancy. Onions are rich in sulphuric compounds and quercetin, which are beneficial in killing the various infection-causing viruses and bacteria. You may eat onions in raw form, or you spread chopped onions around your bed to cleanse the air of harmful bacteria or viruses. However, some pregnant women may find the smell of onions very nauseating, so take care when following this home remedy.
5. Salt Water: As simple as it may sound, salt water is very effective in curing various symptoms associated with cold. Salt water helps in flushing out the cold and cough-causing bacteria and viruses out of your system. It is an extremely safe home remedy to ward off cold and cough during pregnancy. Take a glass of warm water and add half a teaspoon of salt to it. Gargle with this solution to get relief from a sore throat. Alternatively, you can put a few drops of this saline solution in your nose to get rid of a blocked and stuffy nose.
6. Drink Plenty of Fluids: Keeping yourself hydrated is very important in pregnancy and bracing your body with sufficient amounts of fluid becomes utterly important, in case you are down with the cold. Your body loses fluids when you have a cold, and in order to replenish the lost fluids, you can drink water, ginger tea, lemon and honey tea, salt water, vegetable or chicken soups, or fresh fruit juices.
7. Get Adequate Rest: If you are suffering from cold in pregnancy, then it is very important that you take adequate rest. Resting is the best way to give your body time and energy to fight the infection. Napping two to three times a day is a good option to provide your body with a good amount of rest and recoup.
8. Take Steam: Steam is very effective in clearing mucus caused by cold. Inhale steam directly from a pot of hot water, or use a humidifier. Adding some eucalyptus oil in the hot water works really well in opening up the blocked nasal tract or sinuses. Steam is also beneficial in providing relief from a sore throat.
9. Eat Well: Food provides energy to our body, and more energy is required when your body is fighting against any disease or ailment. Eat small frequent meals, rather than bigger meals at one time. Fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts, meat and dairy, whole grains in adequate quantities should be consumed to provide you with energy to fight the cold.
10. Light Exercise: Do some light exercises, if you feel up to it. Staying active warms up your body and makes you feel better, leading to an easier recovery. Exercising also builds immunity, so try a few pregnancy-safe exercises.
There are other home remedies available in different articles which may prove effective. Nevertheless, it is important to see your doctor should any of these suggestions fail.
