We are getting into the season for the common colds and the best course of action is prevention so make sure you are getting adequate sleep and washing your hands frequently with regular soap (antibacterial soaps are ineffective against colds though the mechanical action of washing your hands with it will help with prevention).  If, like me, you have managed to catch a cold then the best courses of action is to increase your fluid intake.  This will help keep your respiratory tract moist and help repel the virus. It will also help improve the action of your white blood cells fighting off the infection.  However, avoid drinks with high concentrations of sugar(this includes using too much honey) as sugars can reduce the activity of the white blood cells. Dilute sugary juices with plenty of water.  Try a tea made with a slice of ginger, 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon and 1/4 of a lemon.  Stay healthy.