I wonder why most of these so-called remedies for a common cold just help suppressing the symptoms. To cure out a cold, it can be helpful to do so, but the best things you can do to ensure a cold will last as short as possible is:
- Keep yourself warm (up to 40°C)
- Drink more than you do normally (up to 6l a day)
- Don't try to stop your nose from running, rather have it cleared as fast as possible
The extra liquids and warmth will help your body to sweat out and eliminate the cold faster. Whatever comes out of your runny nose - your body doesn't want it, so let it come out.
Get well soon!