Stopping a Cold in Its Tracks: Six Tips!
We all know that feeling — the scratchy throat, the sniffles, the sudden dip in energy. It’s the first whisper of a cold trying to take hold. But good news: if you act quickly and wisely, you can often stop a cold in its tracks! Here are six tried-and-true tips to help you fight back at the very first signs:
#1 Manuka Honey Magic
Manuka honey isn’t just delicious — it’s a powerhouse when it comes to immune support. Produced by the Manuka bush, it contains the Unique Manuka Factor (UMF), a potent antibacterial and antiviral compound that can help your body fend off infection.
How to use it:
• Slowly lick a spoonful of Manuka honey, letting it coat your throat.
• Or, make a soothing drink by combining Manuka honey with fresh ginger and lemon in warm (not boiling) water.
#2 Stick to Warm, Cooked Foods
When you’re fighting off an infection, your body needs to conserve energy. Digesting heavy, raw, or cold foods demands more effort, leaving fewer resources for immune defense.
Tip:
Choose easy-to-digest, nourishing meals like soups, stews, and steamed vegetables to support your recovery.
#3 Use a Nasal Spray
Bacteria and viruses often settle in the upper respiratory tract first. Keeping your nasal passages clear can prevent a full-blown infection.
Helpful sprays include:
• Saline (salt water) sprays
• Colloidal silver sprays
• Eucalyptus-based sprays
A quick flush can help reduce bacterial load and support your body’s natural defenses.
#4 Prioritize Rest (But You Don’t Have to Bed-Rest!)
It’s so tempting to power through your to-do list, but slowing down is crucial when you feel a cold coming on. Stress and overexertion weaken your immune response.
Rest doesn’t have to mean bed-bound:
• Gentle activities like going for a short walk or getting some sunshine are great.
• The goal is to reduce stress and demands on your system, not necessarily to sleep all day (though naps are wonderful if you need them!).
(Yes, it’s easier said than done — but it really does make a difference!)
#5 Fresh Garlic
Important:
• Chop or crush your garlic and let it sit for about 10 minutes before using it — this allows the allicin to activate.
• Keep cooking to a minimum to preserve its potency.
Ideas for using garlic:
• If you’re feeling brave, eat a clove raw!
• Or make a zesty mix with crushed garlic, lemon juice, sea salt, and olive oil. Stir it through mashed veggies for a delicious immune boost.
• Pair with parsley to help neutralize garlic breath.
#6 Salt Water Gargle
A classic remedy that’s still one of the best! Gargling salt water helps dislodge bacteria from your throat and prevents them from replicating.
Simple recipe:
• 1 cup warm water
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
Gargle thoroughly (but don’t swallow) every 2 hours throughout the day for best results.
Final Thoughts
The moment you feel the first signs of a cold, don’t wait! Get started with these natural interventions. Your body is incredibly capable - sometimes it just needs a little extra help to fend off illness before it takes hold.
AUTHOR: TALITHA
I specialise in gut health (IBS, IBD, microbiome testing), women's health (preconception, fertility, hormone balance), and mental health (depression, stress, anxiety). I am a degree- qualified naturopath who LOVES helping people transform their health stories!!
