The sniffles come for us all. Adults catch two or three colds a year on average, and children rather more — so when the coughing-and-spluttering season rolls around, it helps to have a comforting, natural toolkit ready.
Here's how to look after yourself through a cold, and the gentle Weleda options that can make it more bearable.
First, the reassuring facts
Most colds are caused by viruses, run their course in under a week, and can't be treated with antibiotics. Symptoms usually peak within two to three days and then ease, though a lingering cough or blocked nose can hang around a little longer. In other words: rest, patience and comfort are the order of the day.
Good to know: antibiotics don't work on the viruses that cause colds and coughs — so self-care and symptom comfort are exactly the right approach for a normal cold.
The self-care basics
- Rest and take it easy — your body does its best work when you slow down.
- Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated and help loosen congestion.
- Warm drinks with honey and lemon are soothing for a scratchy throat (not for babies under one).
- Steam from a bowl of hot water or a warm shower can ease a stuffy nose.
- Paracetamol or ibuprofen can help with aches and fever if needed.
Weleda's natural helpers
To ease the symptoms themselves, Weleda offers a few gentle options:
The Weleda Cold Relief Oral Spray is a registered homeopathic medicinal product, used within the homeopathic tradition for the symptomatic relief of the common cold, the cough associated with it, and related flu-like symptoms — a handy pocket spray for when you're feeling rough.
For a tickly cough, the Weleda Herb & Honey Elixir is a traditional herbal medicine for the symptomatic relief of dry, irritating coughs, based on long-standing use — a soothing blend of herbs and honey to take by the spoonful.
When your nose feels dry and blocked, the Weleda Rhinodoron Nasal Spray is a gentle aloe vera and saline spray that moisturises and cleanses the nasal passages — simple, drug-free nasal hygiene you can use as often as you like.
And to support your everyday wellbeing through the colder months, the Weleda Sea Buckthorn Elixir is a delicious, vitamin C-rich fruit drink. Vitamin C contributes to the normal function of the immune system and to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue — a lovely daily ritual when everyone around you is under the weather.
The bottom line
You can't dodge every cold — but you can ride them out in comfort. Rest up, keep your fluids up, lean on a few soothing natural helpers, and give your body the time it needs to do what it does best.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a cold usually last?
Usually under a week, with symptoms peaking in the first two to three days; a cough or blocked nose can sometimes linger a little longer.
Featured products
a homeopathic medicinal product used within the homeopathic tradition for the symptomatic relief of the common cold, cough associated with the common cold and related flu-like symptoms
a traditional herbal medicinal product for the symptomatic relief of dry, irritating coughs, based on long-standing use
an aloe vera saline spray to moisturise and cleanse dry, blocked-feeling nasal passages
rich in vitamin C, which contributes to the normal function of the immune system
Shop the full Weleda range at United Remedies.