Winter is in full swing, which means cold season is well underway. When hit with a cold, the last thing you want to do is brave the elements for care. If you’re more inclined to stay snuggled up at home, here are some easy at-home remedies for the common cold.

1. Rest
   Although it may seem obvious, your body needs rest when fighting a cold! If your body feels tired or fatigued, listen to it. Don’t over exert yourself—it will just elongate the length of illness.
2. Fluids
   This seems like another obvious one, but it is so important. Make sure to drink plenty of fluids during your cold. In addition to keeping you hydrated, fluids can keep scratchy throats moist and help to break up your congestion.
3. Saline nasal spray
   Using a saline nasal spray can help clear up your congestion and the related discomfort. WebMD has some tips on how to make your our salt-water nasal rinse here.
4. Hot water bottle or hot pack
   Lay a hot water bottle or hot pack on your sinuses to break up sinus congestion and relieve pain.
5. Saltwater gargle
   Gargling with salt water can soothe a sore throat. Mix a half teaspoon of salt into eight ounces of warm water. Make sure the salt is dissolved, and gargle away.

In addition to the above five actions to fight the effects of a cold, certain foods can help ease your discomfort, as well. When you feel a cold coming on, make sure to stock up on the following foods:

1. Chicken soup 
   Research suggest that chicken soup does actually help make you better when you’re sick, especially with a cold. Additionally, the soup helps keep you hydrated while soothing your throat.
2. Ginger
   If your cold has you feeling a bit nauseated, ginger can help settle your stomach. During a cold, opt for a ginger tea that can keep you warm and hydrated while easing your symptoms.
3. Honey
   Honey, especially when added to hot tea, helps ease sore throat and cough symptoms. The antibacterial and antimicrobial properties found in honey can’t hurt, either.

Lastly, if Zest Health is included in your benefits, you can talk to a nurse anytime to assess your symptoms and determine whether home remedies will suffice or if you need to see a doctor–or have an over-the-phone doctor visit if your plan includes telemedicine.

Open your Zest Health app and tap Smart Concierge under Contacts or Chat with a team member to get started.