German scientists have discovered a type of cold plasma that is able to deactivate viruses similar to the common cold, bringing them a step closer to finding a cure for the dreaded winter cold.
Researchers from the Max-Planck Institute for Extraterrestrial Physics in Germany found that when the virus is exposed to the electrically charged gas, it deactivates in just a couple of minutes (240 seconds) and is unable to replicate and spread across the body.
Scientists believe that the plasma damages the proteins and DNA that make up viruses.
"Cold plasmas are potentially a very effective agent for control of viral infections," says Dr Julia Zimmermann from the study.
The findings, published in the Institute of Physics Journal of Physics D: Applied Physics, bring hope to scientists trying to discover a prevention for the common cold, millions of us get each year. Researchers hope that the cold plasma could eventually be used in hand sanitisers in hospitals.
The researchers also believe that the power of the cold plasma could even be used to prevent stronger viruses from spreading, such as HIV.
While this is an exciting step towards finding a cure for the common cold, find out how you can battle the cold and flu bug the natural way.
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Natural Remedies For Colds And Flu
Garlic
Garlic is well known for its immune system benefits and is best eaten raw or crushed in soups and hot drinks. Garlic combats snotty noses by releasing a compound called allicin, which is full of anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties.
Celery
If you're struggling to get a good night's sleep, tackle the problem with a stick of celery.
Celery contains phthalidesm which has sedative powers and helps the body shut off and rest easy during the night.
Thyme
A great natural remedy for respiratory disorders as it helps to release mucus from the body. It is also an antispasmodic which helps relax bronchial tubes, clearing the airways.
Brew a cup of thyme tea or use it as an oil to treat chesty coughs or emphysema.
Leafy Greens
Nosebleeds can be a symptom of cold and flu. Prevent this from happening by adding leafy greens to your diet. Packed with Vitamin K, greens fortify sensitive capillaries and help your blood clot quickly if you have a nose bleed.
Jujube Tea
Jujube tea is rich in Vitamin C and great for the immune system and is widely used for relieving aching throat muscles.
Carrots
Carrots are ideal for treating cold-induced headaches as they contain beta-carotene, which can reduce inflammation in the blood vessels of the brain.
Chop them up and put in a stew, grate them on top of a salad or blend them to create a headache-friendly soup.
Nuts
We already know that <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/2011/11/22/eating-protein-instead-of-sugar-keeps-you-awake_n_1107273.html?ref=uk-lifestyle" target="_hplink">proteins are best for boosting mid-afternoon energy slumps</a>, and they work just as well with energy-zapping colds and flu.
A handful of raw nuts helps give the body a well needed energy boost, especially almonds and walnuts.
Lavender
When the flu bug strikes, chances are the lack of sleep, appetite and constant nose blowing will begin to wear you down.
Lavender is great for calming the nerves and relieving feelings of anxiety and stress. Use either dried lavender to scent the room or apply lavender oil on your pulse points for an instant calming boost.
Pineapple
A low immune system can lead to weakened digestive system. Strengthen it by using pineapple which helps reduce intestinal inflammation and speeds the breakdown of protein, reducing gas and discomfort.
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The Huffington Post UK Kyrsty Hazell First Posted: 05/12/11 18:02 GMT Updated: 05/12/11 18:02 GMT