We recently spoke with Dr. Woodson Merrell, M.D., Executive Director of the Beth Israel Medical Center’s Center for Health and Healing in New York City, who shared some great tips and tricks to avoid getting taken down by a cold or the flu this winter.
From cooking with spices to essential-oil inhalations, check out some not-so-common ways to kick a cold to the curb.
1. Try eucalyptus and menthol steam inhalations. It’s old-school, but grandma did it for a reason — it works. Eucalyptus and menthol inhalations work as an expectorant, decongestant and can even help kill the infection.
Related: Why You Should Be Drinking Eucalyptus Tea
Heat up some water almost to a boil on the stove. Remove the pot and add a few drops of each essential oil. Put a towel over your head to create a tent effect, then lean over the pot to inhale the steam.
Can’t boil water? Put a few drops of the essential oils on a washcloth and place it on your shower floor; the hot water will create a soothing steam.
2. Cook with anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial herbs and spices. You would be surprised at the number of medicinal remedies that are in your kitchen. Two examples: Garlic and turmeric.
