No one likes getting a cold. It can leave you feeling groggy, bunged up, tired and generally run-down, but as there’s no known cure for the common cold, how can we effectively treat it? 

It seems that almost everyone has a theory on the best way to treat a cold, most of which involve keeping up your fluids, plenty of rest, dosing up with the right amount of paracetamol and minimising contact with others to avoid it spreading. However, how effective are these methods? And are there any more unusual methods out there that we don’t’ know about that could significantly help us fight our next cold?

We’re exploring 5 unusual tips for beating a cold to help people further their chances of overcoming the common cold quicker. 

Listening to jazz

Recent research relating to the common cold has shown that there is a link between listening to jazz and helping to fight the common cold. Whether you’re a jazz enthusiast or not, according to research, listening to jazz music for 30 minutes a day helps to boost the production of immunoglobulin A (IgA) in the body. IgA is an immune protein found in the lining of the throat, nose and mouth and plays a vital role in our body’s defence against infections and viruses. With more IgA, your body has a better chance of fighting the cold. 

Hot, fruity drinks

While many of us will reach for over-the-counter cold and flu relief drinks, there is a much more effective, natural and cheaper alternative that can help soothe a sore throat and runny nose. Drinking hot, fruity drinks full of flavour, such as hot water with honey and lemon will give you a boost of vitamins and antibacterial properties to help beat the infection. In addition, flavourful hot drinks have been said to stimulate saliva glands, which makes your nose run and helps clear the nasal passage when you’re bunged up. 

Chicken soup

Although many of us know about this one, it’s often considered an old wives tale. But there is scientific reasoning behind why so many people swear by it; and it can actually help fight a cold quicker.

Firstly, the soup provides the body with much-needed fluids and electrolytes to help stay hydrated, as well easy to absorb calories from the chicken, herbs and vegetables. At the same time, the chicken and broth contain plenty of amino acid carnosine that’s been proven to help fight the flu virus. So if you’re stuck with a stinking cold, cook yourself up a bowl of chicken soup and you could be well on the road to recovery. 

Avoid alcoholic drinks

Many of us will try to stave off a cold with alcohol, and while a hot toddy with a drop of whisky or rum can help to relieve congestion and a sore throat, you should avoid other alcoholic drinks like wine and beer. These drinks are diuretics that will make you more dehydrated, slow down the healing process and make the throat feel even drier. The best option is to stick to water and fruity drinks with lots of flavour and avoid alcohol until you’re feeling better. 

Eat a curry

Another immune system boosting food that can help with colds is, surprisingly, a nice hot curry. With key ingredients such as garlic, chilli peppers and ginger that contain antibacterial and antiviral properties, a spicy curry can be just the ticket for flushing out a cold, as they help to clear sinuses and airways and kill germs in your body too. 

A good accompaniment to your curry, whether you have it on the side or as a dessert, is a bowl of pro-biotic yoghurt. The bacteria in the yoghurt is not only good for your digestive system, but also helps to boost the immune system, especially if you throw in some berries and fruit that are full of anti-oxidants and vitamins. 

Try one or all of these unusual cold remedies, teamed with a good deal of rest and a healthy, balanced diet and you will be back on your feet in no time at all.