7 herbs that can fight cold and flu easily – Cold and flu season often brings about a sense of unease. To reduce the likelihood of getting sick, take advantage of some natural remedies that have been used for centuries to boost your immune system. In this article, discover the seven herbs that can help fight off cold and flu symptoms naturally. From herbal teas to tinctures and more, explore how these herbs can bolster your health during this difficult time of year.
Echinacea
Echinacea is an herbal supplement used as a preventative and treatment measure for colds and flu. People believe that echinacea can bolster the immune system and reduce the duration of symptoms, though this has not been substantiated in scientific studies. Echinacea is usually safe, but can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or dizziness. It comes in several forms – capsules, tablets, teas or tinctures – which can be ingested orally or applied directly to the skin. Before using echinacea, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider as it may interact with certain medications.
Elderberry
Elderberry has been used therapeutically for centuries due to its abundance of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antibacterial properties. A 2008 study found that elderberry extract was an effective treatment for upper respiratory tract infections like the cold and flu. Taking it in the form of a syrup or tincture is highly recommended, though you can also make tea by steeping 2-3 teaspoons of dried elderberries in a cup of boiling water for 10 minutes. Always consult with your healthcare provider before taking any herbal supplements as they may interact with medications you are taking.
Ginger
When it comes to fighting cold and flu, ginger is one of the most effective herbs. Ginger has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat a variety of respiratory infections.
Ginger contains a number of compounds that have been shown to be effective against viruses, including rhinoviruses, which are the primary cause of the common cold. In addition, ginger has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help to boost the immune system and reduce symptoms.
To use ginger as a remedy for cold and flu, you can make a tea by adding a few slices of fresh ginger to hot water. You can also take ginger supplements or add fresh ginger to your food.
Garlic
Cold and flu viruses can be defeated by garlic’s potent antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties.
Its medicinal properties are attributed to sulfur-containing compounds in garlic.
You can eat garlic raw, cooked, or as a supplement.
To avoid gastrointestinal upset, garlic supplements should be taken with food.
Warfarin (Coumadin) and garlic may interact at high doses.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a powerful herb that has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese and Indian medicine to treat a variety of ailments. The active ingredient in turmeric, curcumin, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties. Curcumin is thought to fight infection by boosting the immune system and by attacking bacteria and viruses directly. A 2012 study found that curcumin was effective in preventing the common cold, and a 2013 study found that it may also be effective in treating the flu.
Licorice root
Licorice root is one of the most popular herbal remedies for cold and flu. It is known to boost the immune system, fight viruses, and relieve congestion. Licorice root can be taken in capsule form, as a tea, or in tincture form.
Peppermint
Herbs are nature’s way of providing us with remedies for common ailments. Peppermint is one of those herbs that can help fight cold and flu.
Peppermint has a high concentration of menthol, which makes it a great decongestant. It can help to clear your sinuses and ease your respiratory symptoms. Peppermint also has antibacterial and antiviral properties, which can help to reduce the duration and severity of your illness.
To get the most benefit from peppermint, you can drink it as a tea or inhale the vapors from a peppermint essential oil diffuser. You can also add a few drops of peppermint oil to a warm bath and breathe in the steam to help clear your sinuses.
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