Try turmeric. This yellow spice contains curcumin, an anti-inflammatory chemical that can stop a virus in its tracks, according to research from George Mason University. "All viruses turn on a group of proteins known as NFKB," says Fatah Kashanchi, Ph.D., the study's coauthor. "If you can shut down NFKB, you can stop the virus or at least slow it down. And curcumin does exactly that." Take a 1,000-milligram curcumin supplement twice daily for the duration of your cold. (Plus, turmeric helps with workout soreness too.)
Press for relief. "Studies have shown that acupuncture and acupressure can affect levels of immune proteins known as interleukins, helping you fight viruses a day or two faster," says Bill Reddy, a licensed acupuncturist and the director of the Integrative Health Policy Consortium. Use the pads of your fingers to press, tap, or massage these spots: Just inside each eyebrow; on both sides of your nose; on both sides of your spine, where your neck meets your skull; and just below your collarbone.
Cancel your workout class. Now is the time to take a break from exercise. "When your symptoms are at their worst, you likely won't be able to exercise enough to do any good," Dr. Martin says. You'll get more benefits from extra rest, so take a nap instead.
