Jamaicans are undefeated innovators in the field of natural medicine and home remedies. They’ll always identify a home-grown ‘bush’ to treat the symptoms of viral infections. On the other end of the spectrum, trained medical doctors will caution our use of home remedies because there is often little knowledge about the possible side effects of overuse in the absence of prescribed dosage. 

This cautionary note often falls on deaf ears especially among Jamaicans living in remote parts of the island, with limited access to formal medical care services. What do they do? Innovate! One example of this innovation is in their use of home remedies to treat the symptoms of the common cold. 

Please note that the following is not a medically-prescribed list of recommendations for treating the common cold. This list is purely being shared for entertainment purposes. 

Now let’s explore 8 Jamaican ways to treat the common cold. There are many more, so let us know in the comments below:

1. Fever Grass Tea 

Lemongrass (scientific name Cymbopogon citratus) is more popularly known as ‘fever grass’ in Jamaica. It is used to reduce coughs, colds and fevers. Jamaicans simply use the herb to make a savoury tea but they may also use it in other concoctions that can be applied topically. There is growing scientific research to support the power of the herb as it is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties that help to lower high body temperatures. If nothing else it smells great so using it does no harm. 

2. Rum and Coffee

A hot cup of coffee laced with white rum is said to be a capital treatment for flu-like symptoms. 

3. Garlic Tea 

Garlic has anti-inflammatory properties which makes it an attractive home remedy for fever. However, drinking too much garlic tea on an empty stomach, may cause dizziness.

4. Honey, Garlic and Lime Juice

It is quite possible for you to find a jar of this natural concoction in the cupboards in countless Jamaican homes. It is considered the Jamaican golden remedy for the common cold.

5. Steaming with Eucalyptus Oil & Mental Crystals

Jamaicans will tell you that steaming your face in a bowl of warm water infused with mental crystals and Eucalyptus oil is one of the best strategies to get rid of a stuffy nose. However, excessive use of mental crystals can be dangerous. 

6. Take a Swim

This is usually the recommendation shared by Jamaicans who believe in the natural healing properties of the Caribbean Sea. The assumption is that the salty water will rid the body of unwanted mucus. 

7. Vicks 

Vicks is identified as a flu-fighting product found in most Jamaican homes. Small amounts are usually applied to the nose bridge, the back and the chest to relieve stuffiness. 

8. Chicken Noodle Soup

A steamy cup of Chicken Noodle Soup is believed to be a fast-acting remedy to fight the symptoms of the common cold because it opens the pores, allowing the sick person to sweat away the illness.

Finally, if all remedies fail, a true Jamaican will tell you to whisper a word of prayer. Yes, a strong word of prayer is a remedy many Jamaicans use for all types of ailments. God-fearing Jamaicans strongly believe that divine intervention can free the body of all ailments. If you survey the island, you’ll realize that a large majority of Jamaicans are God-fearing. Have you received this advice before from a Jamaican? 

What other home remedies have your family used to treat the common cold? Tell us in the comment section below.

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