Evidence is limited in regards benefits of detox for a cold, however it may help with certain cold symptoms by calming the body and easing muscle aches; results will vary from person to person.
Essential oils such as chamomile and lavender added to a bath can help to relax and calm you down in addition to easing sore achy muscles. Peppermint and eucalyptus can help to relieve sinus congestion and pressure.
A small study found adding Epsom salt to baths raised magnesium levels in the body that may help the body to dispose of lactic acid which in turn may help to ease body aches and pains, and relax muscles.
Research has shown certain essential oils to have antiviral and antimicrobial properties, such as eucalyptus which may be a therapeutic for upper respiratory viruses and helps to ease congestion.
Warm baths are a time tested age old remedy for cooling a fever, although scientific evidence is limited. Lukewarm water temperature should be the goal, at around 80-90 fahrenheit/27-32 celsius, if shivering increase the temperature as that means the body is trying to raise its temperature which can make fever worse. Do not take a bath if feeling dizzy or unsteady.
Children, those who are pregnant, and those with impaired kidney function should not take a detox bath. It is recommended to drink plenty of water before, during and after a detox bath. While in one if you start to shiver, feel dizzy, or faint get out of the bath immediately. As always check with a medical professional to see if a detox bath is right for you.
While detox baths will not cure the common cold they can help you to relax while temporarily helping to alleviate some symptoms such as soothing body aches, congestion, and fever. Depending on symptoms there are different types of detox baths, watch for signs of dry skin and dehydration while using them. Start with a shorter period of time such as 10-20 minutes to see how the body reacts, if there are no negative reactions and they are relaxing, gradually increase the time working up to 3 times per week.
Epsom salt baths reduce aches, pains, and promote relaxation: Fill the tub with warm water, add epsom salts, and soak 12 minutes to an hour. Coconut oil and a few drops of essential oils can be added for additional soothing effects.
Ginger baths promote sweating which may help to rid the body of toxins and help with muscle aches and pains. Mix one third cup of epsom salts, one third cup of sea salt, one third cup of baking soda, and three tablespoons of ground ginger; poor the mixture into a running warm bath; add one cup of apple cider vinegar. Soak for up to 45 minutes, making sure to drink water as you soak and get out if you start to shiver. Dry off immediately when you get out of the tub and drink more water as this bath can be dehydrating.
Sea salt and eucalyptus bath can help to ease congestion and help with inflammation and muscle aches. Add one cup of sea salt, one cup of epsom salt, two cups of baking soda, and 10-12 drops of eucalyptus oil to warm running water, mix well. Soak in this for 12 minutes to an hour, making sure to drink water.
To help better manage a cold you may want to try tea with honey to help soothe a sore throat. Fresh ginger and lemon with hot water can also help soothe a sore throat. Neti pots using saline solutions can help to rinse mucus and debris from the nasal cavity. Lastly the age old chicken noodle soup has anti-inflammatory properties than can help to ease common cold symptoms, plus the fluids will help to keep the body hydrated while you are fighting a cold.
If cold symptoms worsen or do not improve in a week to ten days you may want to consider seeking medical care or if there is a fever over 101.3 fahrenheit/38 celsius; have had a fever for more than five days; are experiencing shortness of breath; are wheezing; or have severe sore throat, headache, or sinus pain.
