
Colds are a very common problem that can occur year-round, in any season. It affects everyone—children, young people, and the elderly. While the common cold isn’t a serious illness, recurring episodes can weaken the body’s immune system and leave a person feeling tired, irritable, and weak.
Modern lifestyles, pollution, an unbalanced diet, lack of sleep, and changing weather contribute to frequent colds. According to the World Health Organization, even a healthy person can get a cold 2–3 times a year, while children can experience this number 5–7 times.
➡In this blog, we will explore in detail
Causes of the common cold
Its main symptoms
Home remedies and tips
Ayurvedic and natural treatments
Allopathic (modern) treatments
Precautions and lifestyle measures
Special tips for children, pregnant women, and the elderly
➡Causes of the common cold
The common cold is primarily caused by a viral infection. More than 200 types of viruses can cause colds, the most common of which is rhinovirus.
✅Main causes
⏺ Viral infection – spreads through air, sneezes, or coughs.
⏺Sudden change in weather – from cold to hot or from hot to cold.
⏺ Consumption of cold things – ice cream, cold water, cold drinks.
⏺Weak immunity – Infections occur more quickly when the immune system is weak.
⏺Dust and pollution – Causes nose and throat infections.
⏺Irregular lifestyle – Lack of sleep, fatigue, and an unbalanced diet.
⏺Coming into contact with an infected person – Spreads through sitting, eating, or shaking hands.
➡Common cold symptoms
Cold symptoms begin gradually and can last for 7–10 days.
⏺ Runny and stuffy nose
⏺ Sneezing
⏺ Sore throat and pain
⏺ Cough (dry or with mucus)
⏺ Mild fever
⏺ Fatigue and weakness
⏺ Watery eyes
⏺ Headache
⏺ Insomnia or restlessness
➡ Home remedies for colds
Grandmother’s remedies are very effective for colds. They not only alleviate symptoms but also boost the body’s immunity.
⏺ Ginger and honey
Consume ginger juice mixed with honey.
Beneficial for sore throats, coughs, and runny noses.
⏺Tulsi Tea
Make tea with basil leaves, ginger, and black pepper.
Boosts immunity.
⏺Turmeric Milk
Drink lukewarm milk mixed with turmeric before bed.
Reduces mucus and promotes good sleep.
⏺Steam Inhalation
Inhale steam with celery or mint leaves.
Relieves nasal congestion and difficulty breathing.
⏺Gargle with Salt Water
Gargle with salt mixed with lukewarm water.
Relieves sore throat and inflammation.
⏺Drinking Lukewarm Water
Drink lukewarm water throughout the day.
Keeps the body hydrated and reduces infections.
⏺Garlic Consumption
Eat a clove of garlic with honey.
Antiviral properties prevent infection.
➡Ayurvedic Treatment for Colds
In Ayurveda, colds are called Pratishaya.
Trikatu Churna (ginger, black pepper, long pepper) – reduces phlegm.
Sitopaladi Churna – useful for coughs and sore throats.
Tulsi Extract – helps boost immunity.
Chyawanprash – strengthens the body and prevents frequent colds.
➡Modern Medicine for Colds
There is no specific treatment for colds; medications are given only to alleviate the symptoms.
Paracetamol – for fever and headache.
Antihistamines (Cetirizine, Levocetirizine) – for sneezing and a runny nose.
Decongestant Syrup – for nasal congestion and cough.
Gargling with warm water and steam inhalation are recommended.
➡Special Tips for Children and Pregnant Women
Do not give children excessive medication; only give them medication on the advice of a doctor.
Give them lukewarm water and light food.
Pregnant women should use home remedies and Ayurvedic prescriptions; only take medicine after consulting a doctor.
➡Precautions
⏺Get enough sleep.
⏺Wash your hands frequently.
⏺Avoid cold foods.
⏺Wear a mask in crowded places.
⏺Eat a balanced diet – fruits, vegetables, and soups.
⏺Exercise and practice yoga.
➡Conclusion
The common cold is a common but troublesome problem. Its main causes are viral infections and weakened immunity. It can be easily controlled with home remedies, Ayurvedic prescriptions, and a little caution. If a cold persists for more than 10 days, or if you develop a high fever or difficulty breathing, you should immediately consult a doctor.