With the arrival of autumn, Spanish cities transform. Golden leaves blanket the sidewalks, and the air turns cool and crisp. However, this picturesque season brings with it a familiar companion of the changing weather—a wave of colds. Sneezing in the metro, coughing in the office, and stuffy noses become part of daily life. Pharmacies see lines forming, but many Spaniards still trust tried-and-true home remedies. An experienced Madrid pharmacist shared her insights on how nature’s gifts can help ease early symptoms and support the body during this challenging period.
The first line of defense against a scratchy throat and general malaise is warming drinks. The undisputed favorite remains an elixir made from ginger, lemon, and honey. This classic recipe is simple: several slices of fresh ginger root are boiled for 5–10 minutes, then lemon juice and a spoonful of honey are added to the slightly cooled infusion. This drink not only soothes an irritated throat but also provides excellent hydration. For those suffering from persistent coughs, thyme or sage infusions can be a real lifesaver. These herbs have a mild, balmy effect that promotes comfortable breathing. And for restful sleep and to relieve inflammation, you can prepare “golden milk”—a warm drink with turmeric, renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties.
When your nose is congested and breathing becomes difficult, inhalations can help. Inhaling hot steam with eucalyptus leaves or chamomile flowers is an old but effective way to clear the sinuses. Simply boil water, add a few leaves, cover your head with a towel, and breathe over the pot. Local treatments for the throat are equally important. Gargling with warm salt water helps reduce swelling and relieve pain. Propolis—taken with honey or dissolved in warm tea—soothes the mucous membranes and creates a protective barrier. Don’t forget about rinsing the nose with saline solution, a simple hygienic procedure that removes mucus and helps prevent complications.
Proper nutrition and routine play a key role in a quick recovery. Autumn offers plenty of fruits rich in vitamin C: kiwi, oranges, pomegranates, and persimmons should be regulars on the table. They naturally strengthen the body’s defenses. When appetite is low and energy is lacking, nothing beats a bowl of hot homemade broth. It not only warms and nourishes but also provides essential nutrients. And, of course, the two main allies in fighting any illness are rest and plenty of fluids. Quality sleep allows the body to direct all its resources to battling infection, while adequate hydration helps flush out toxins.
Despite the effectiveness of home remedies, it is important to remember the limits of self-treatment. The expert emphasizes: if symptoms persist, the fever remains above normal for more than three days, or shortness of breath appears, you should seek medical attention immediately. Home remedies can help relieve mild ailments, but they cannot replace professional medical care in case of serious illness.
