Typical symptoms of the common cold last 7-14 days and may include fever, headaches, sore throat, cough, nasal congestion, swollen glands and muscle aches. The primary treatment of the common cold should be with alternative medicine. Conventional medicine would become appropriate if the patient experiences respiratory distress, has a high fever or if symptoms do not improve within ten days. Complementary And Alternative Therapies Consult a competent specialist in each treatment modality for individual assessment or additional information. Pressure is applied with the fingers to stimulate specific acupoints to clear upper respiratory congestion, relieve middle ear pressure and balance a distressed respiratory system.
Aromatherapy using herbal steam can assist in reducing congestion.
Steam inhalation of essential oils such as peppermint, eucalyptus or clary sage may improve breathing and help drain sinuses. Take several breaths of the inhalation and then take a break and breathe room air. You may then return to the steam inhalation. Also try placing a few drops of one of these oils on a warm, wet washcloth or tissue and hold to your face with your eyes closed for several minutes. Ginger oil mixed with a carrier oil makes a great warming chest rub to help relieve congestion.