The top 5 key supplements that can decrease the magnitude of the cold:

1. Zinc- tablets and lozenges are key from the onset. Zicam is also effective.
2. Vitamin C- Ester C is a key ingredient to help you body fight the virus. Take vitamin c every 3-4 hours. Emergen-C packs are great.
3.Echinacea/Goldenseal-bolsters body's ability to fight the virus.
4. Slippery Elm & Marshmallow- helps sooth a sore throat and cough.
5. Oscillococcinum-homeopathic medicine.

Lots of rest and liquids are essential for your body to fight a cold. Eat homemade chicken soup- not from a can. Your local thai or chinese restaurant often have the best chicken stock and soup that will help you feel better. Avoid sweets, coffee and dairy products. Drink herbal teas or make your own ginger tea with lemon and honey. Ginger is highly effective in decreasing mucus and phlem.

The best thing for a cold is a salt water gargle and the utilization of a netti pot or a nasal flush/rrigation. "People with chronic sinus conditions should use a nasal douche daily (netti pot), as it promotes drainage of the sinuses and speeds healing of inflamed tissues." Andrew Weil, M.D.

A healthy attitude also helps fight a cold: think and believe in the wellness of your body and the strength of your cells and they will work in your favor.

Melissa Gallagher is the founder and president of Healthy Being, LLC. She is completing her ND & CNHP (Doctorate of Naturopathy and Certification for Natural Health Practitioner) and fell upon natural health and healing as a means to combat a severe case of mono she had over 4 years ago. Ms. Gallagher's passion is in her ability to coach and council her clients in best practices for superior healthy. Currently undergoing the trademark process is her Healthy Living Consulting business where Ms. Gallagher works with clients in their offices or homes and sculpts individualized, targeted programs that address their health concerns. Ms. Gallagher currently manufactures and distributes Healthy Being in a Box: a kit that contains health and wellness for a variety of ailments. Healthy Being in a Box simplifies the choices of natural and homeopathic products and supplements and aids in the recovery from illness. Visit her website for more details: http://healthybeings.blogspot.com