It is estimated that the average person contracts more than 50 colds during a lifetime. The cure for the common cold? We’re still looking, but lucky for us we’ve come a long way from the remedies of the Middle Ages, when colds were treated with roasted mice, leeches or hanging a ball of camphor around the neck.

Today, the best thing to do if you feel really sick is to take a trip to your doctor’s office. However, for minor sniffles and congestion, there may be some things you can do at home that provide temporary relief. An old-fashioned favorite (of those 21 years of age and older): the hot toddy! It’s ¼ cup whiskey, ¼ cup fresh squeezed lemon juice and ¼ cup honey. You can either put the ingredients straight into a mug and microwave until warmed, or slow-cook them in a saucepan. If your toddy turns out too strong, add ¼ cup boiling water to the mixture. This hot cocktail may temporarily help soothe aches and congestion, and some people feel it helps them get some much-needed sleep. And it tastes good, too!

Here’s another home remedy from Aura Cacia that could help relieve stuffy noses and sinus pressure: Drop one or two drops of Peppermint essential oil into the palm of your hand, rub your hands together for a few seconds, close your eyes (don’t forget this part), put your hands to your face and breathe in deep … so good! This is also great to combat that afternoon energy slump, to keep you awake during late-night driving, or as a pre-workout prep. • Lorna Parton (Healthy Living)