Speed-heal your cold-naturally!

These natural remedies eliminate your most bothersome cold symptoms in a hurry so you can get back to enjoying the magic of the season

- Ann Green

Clear your sinuses

If a plugged-up nose is making you reconsider popping into your neighbor's party, try this: Place an index finger on the side of the base of each nostril and massage in gentle circles for 60 seconds. This activates a pressure point that signals sinuses to release trapped fluids. The payoff: German research suggests you'll reduce stuffiness by 56% in 60 seconds.

Calm a sore throat

The capsaicin in chili peppers soothes a sore throat in seconds by blocking pain receptors, say University of Pennsylvania scientists. Indeed, a study in Experimental and Therapeutic Medicine found the compound eases discomfort as effectively as some OTC meds. To do: Use a tea strainer to steep 1/8 tsp. of pepper flakes in a cup of hot water for 5 minutes; then strain and sip.

Tip!

Eating 1 clove of trendy aged 'black garlic' daily cuts the days you'll feel sick with a cold by 61%, say University of Florida scientists