When the temperature drops and the wind picks up, it's no surprise that sniffles, sore throats and fatigue start making the rounds, especially if you're juggling study sessions, early morning classes or late-night assignments. But here's the good news: You don’t need a pharmacy haul to start feeling better, or a hefty dent in your bank account. Your kitchen, your couch and your cosy hoodie might just be the secret weapons you need. These simple at-home remedies can help you bounce back faster - and even make getting sick a little less miserable. Of course, it's always nice to have mum look after you when you're sick, but you can try these DIY remedies for yourself, and even have them up your sleeve to surprise mum if she's the one with the sniffles!
The Golden Comfort: Honey, turmeric, ginger and lemon tea
This sunny brew is a go-to in my household whenever the sniffles hit. Start by brewing your favourite tea - black tea, Earl Grey or English Breakfast all work well. Stir in a spoonful of honey, a slice of lemon, a pinch of turmeric and a few slices of fresh ginger. Let it simmer for a few minutes so all the goodness can infuse. Not only does it taste amazing, it also helps soothe a sore throat, gives your immune system a vitamin C boost, and acts as a natural antibacterial. It's like a warm hug in a mug - perfect for cold days when you need a little lift.
Steam it out
Got a blocked nose? Steam inhalation is your secret weapon. Just boil some water, pour it into a bowl, and add a dab of Vicks VapoRub or a few drops of eucalyptus or peppermint oil. Drape a towel over your head, lean in carefully and take slow, deep breaths. The steam helps loosen mucus and clears your sinuses, giving you that “Finally, I can breathe again!” feeling. Plus, it’s a perfect moment to pause, relax and let the warmth do its magic.
Soup for the soul
Ever tried Tom Kha soup? If not, you're seriously missing out. This Thai-inspired coconut soup has become an all-time favourite in my kitchen, comforting, zesty and packed with flavour. I’ve tweaked and perfected this recipe to hit all the right notes when I’m feeling under the weather or just need something warm and nourishing.
It starts with sautéed onion, garlic, ginger and a touch of red chilli for that warming kick. Add a bruised lemongrass stalk, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, and a couple of generous spoonfuls of Thai red curry paste. Pour in one litre of vegetable stock (from cubes is totally fine) and stir through 400ml of coconut milk for that creamy, soothing base. Once it’s simmering, squeeze in some fresh lime juice and throw in your favourite add-ins, like mushrooms or dumplings. Add a sprinkle of spring onion and fresh coriander to finish.
Tom Kha soup: Ingredients
- 1 onion
- 4 cloves of garlic (minced)
- Thumb-sized piece of ginger
- 1 - ½ red chilli
- 1 lemongrass stalk
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice wine vinegar
- 2 heaped tbsp Thai red curry paste
- 1 litre vegetable stock (1-2 stock cubes)
- 400ml coconut milk
- 1 lime
- Mushrooms and/or Dumplings (optional)
- Spring onion (sliced) and coriander to garnish
Rest is a remedy
No, this isn’t your excuse to procrastinate (okay, maybe just a little). But seriously, rest helps your body direct energy to healing. That doesn’t mean you have to be completely inactive - just allow yourself moments of downtime without guilt. Even a short nap or an early night can make a big difference.
'Old School' magic: the saltwater gargle
If you have a sore throat, mix half a teaspoon of salt in warm water and gargle for 30 seconds. It’s not glamorous, but it can reduce throat inflammation and wash away viruses lingering in your mouth and throat.
A nice head massage
This is something my mum always did for me when I got sick, and now I’ve passed it on to my friends and loved ones - it’s a little ritual of care. Just take some Vicks VapoRub or Tiger Balm and gently massage it onto your chest and the crown of your head before bed. Not only is the massage incredibly soothing, but the menthol helps open up your airways, making it easier to breathe through the night. It’s like wrapping yourself in comfort, and sometimes that’s exactly what you need to drift off and let your body heal.
Catching a cold might feel like the worst timing, especially when assignments, exams and everyday life don’t hit pause. But with a few simple, comforting remedies right at home, you can take control of your recovery and give your body the love it needs. Whether it's sipping on golden tea, breathing in soothing steam, or enjoying a soul-warming bowl of Tom Kha, these little acts of care can make a big difference.
So next time the chill catches up with you, don’t stress. Slow down, snuggle up and treat yourself with kindness. Your body is doing its best - these remedies just give it a helping hand. You've got this!
Channel Mag's youth contributors, Fantasia Nair and Ellie Brown bring a fresh monthly feature to our pages to inspire and advise our younger North Shore readers. If there are any topics you'd like to read about, contact Liz at liz@channelmag.co.nz, and our fledgling writers will research and write engaging articles specifically for our younger (at heart) readers.
