Can you suggest some natural ways to treat or beat colds

asks MScott:
A. You know when you've got a cold and, while there is no 'cure', there are some simple things you can do to get over it quickly.

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Q. Such as
A. Take some rest for a start - your body uses up energy fighting off infection. By spending a day or two in bed, you could shorten the length of your cold considerably.

Drink lots of liquids - this will replace the liquids the body loses through sweating.

Avoid mucus-forming foods, such as dairy products and red meat.

Eat lots of garlic which has anti-viral properties.

Don't spend time in a dry atmosphere - it can dry out your nose and throat. Put pots of water beside radiators.

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Q. What sorts of drinks are best
A. Try a great soothing drink - hot water with a squeeze of lemon, a little grated ginger, and a spoonful of honey.

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Otherwise, have water, diluted fruit juice, vegetable soups, herbal teas - a cup of peppermint, camomile or eucalyptus with a pinch of cayenne pepper to boost your circulation.

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Q. What kind of supplements can I try
A. There's vitamin C, of course. Although there's no proof that it works, many people swear by it, taking up to 500mg every four hours. You could try vitamin C and zinc lozenges - zinc lozenges have been shown to reduce the length of a cold.

The following herbal remedies are available as tinctures or tablets (always choose a standardised extract).

• Echinacea boosts immunity by increasing the amount of virus-fighting white blood cells. Take it at the first sign of a cold.
• Goldenseal boosts the immune system and helps to reduce inflammation.
• Elderberries are a traditional cold and flu remedy because of their powerful antiviral properties.

To find a qualified herbalist, conatct the National Institute of Medical Herbalists

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Q. What about essential oils
A. Thyme, rosemary and pine have antiviral and decongestant properties. Put a couple of drops on a handkerchief and inhale frequently. To increase sweating and bring down a fever, put a couple of drops of ginger or black pepper essential oils in a footbath, or add to a carrier oil, such as olive, and massage into your legs.

Avoid these oils if you are pregnant. To find a qualified aromatherapist, contact the Register of Qualified Aromatherapists

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By Sheena Miller