The immune system tends to weaken during pregnancy. A running 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 in pregnancy. 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.
Top 15 Natural Remedies for Cold During Pregnancy
The best way to remain healthy during pregnancy is to follow a healthy lifestyle and eat a balanced diet. However, if you catch a cold, the following home remedies for cold and cough when pregnant will prove to be beneficial:
1. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil 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 viruses and naturally aiding the immune system in fighting the infection. 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
Garlic 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 Indian 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. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a very safe and useful remedy to cure a cold in pregnancy. The alkaline properties of apple cider vinegar create a hostile environment for the viruses, and thus, kill them. At the very onset of cold or as soon as you spot the first symptom of cold during pregnancy, start drinking apple cider vinegar. Mix a spoonful of apple cider vinegar with a glass of warm water. Ideally, you should gargle and then gulp the solution to achieve maximum benefits. You may drink this every hour or untill you get relief from cold.
5. Hot Chicken Soup
Sipping on a hot bowl of chicken soup is one of the tastiest ways of getting rid of a cold during pregnancy. Chicken soup is loaded with nutrition, along with being rich in anti-inflammatory properties. Add ginger, garlic, and cayenne powder, which make your soup more sumptuous and work really well in combating the symptoms of the cold.
6. 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.
7. Onion
Onion is one of the most effective ayurvedic remedies for cold and cough during pregnancy. Onions are rich in sulphuric compounds, 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.
8. Honey and Lemon
Honey and lemon is a great combination that works great in getting rid of cold during pregnancy. Take a glass of warm water and add a teaspoon of honey and a tablespoon of lemon juice into it. Mix well and drink this mixture three to four times a day. You can even drink this after you have recovered, if you are prone to getting a cold. The vitamin C in lemon strengthens the immune system and the soothing properties of honey relieve a sore throat.
9. 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. Cold makes your body lose fluids, 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.
10. 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.
11. Take Steam
Steam is very effective in clearing mucus caused by cold. Inhale steam directly from a pot of boiling water, or use a humidifier. Adding some eucalyptus oil in the boiling water works really well in opening up the blocked nasal tract or sinuses. Steam is also beneficial in providing relief from a sore throat.
12. 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 inadequate qualities should be consumed to provide you with energy to fight the cold.
13. The Chest Rub Trick
Chest rubs available in the market are great in clearing out sinuses and relieving chest congestion. However, pregnant women may be sensitive to strong smells and dislike the cooling sensation that a chest rub emits. However, there is another way to use these, that works really well. Apply chest rub to the soles of your feet, before bedtime, and wear socks. This gives you relief from cough and cold.
14. 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.
15. Elevate Your Head
Lying flat while sleeping may give you trouble breathing through a blocked nose. Prop your head on two or three pillows, which will make it much easier for you to breathe throughout the night and have a restful sleep.
These above-mentioned home remedies are very effective in curing a cold during pregnancy. These home remedies may have different degrees of effect on different women, so choose the ones that work for you. However, it is recommended that if these remedies do not prove to be fruitful, you should seek medical advice.
