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Herbal Remedies for Colds

Simple Plant Based Treatments Relieve Cold Symptoms

© Joanne E. Brannan

Use ingredients from your kitchen to ease the discomfort of sore throats and blocked nose.

Use these simple plant based remedies to ease cold symptoms and feel better able to face the world.

Mustard Foot Bath

Add a heaped tablespoon of ground black mustard seeds (Brassica Nigra) to a hot foot bath to stimulate the circulation and relieve congestion.

Ginseng to Give You Energy

A pinch of ginseng added to any of the herbal teas below will give you more energy and help to restore your body’s natural equilibrium. Ginseng also helps relieve coughs.

Chili and Garlic to Ward Off the Beginnings of a Cold

Have you ever craved spicy food when you feel the beginnings of a cold? Your body is guiding you wisely as, if you are lucky, chili or cayenne really can ward off the early stages or a cold! Garlic is also helpful in the early stages of a cold. Take odorless garlic capsules if you are worried about the effect of eating garlic on your breath.

Thyme and Sage Tea to Ease a Sore Throat

Infuse a mixture of fresh or dried sage and thyme in boiling water for at least five minutes. You may like to add mint, honey or liquorice to the infusion to sweeten this rather strong tasting blend! Sip slowly to enjoy a gentle relief for a sore throat.

Mint Tea Relieves Fever

It is important to drink plenty if you have a fever, and mint tea is refreshing. It is said to encourage helpful sweating when you have a fever. Mix with honey to taste and drink a few cups a day.

A Cut Onion to Clear a Blocked Nose

A curious tip that really works! Cut an onion in half just before you retire for the night. Place a half onion on your bed side table and you will find that you breathe much more easily and that your blocked nose begins to clear.

Hot Honey and Lemon Drink for Comfort

A classic, reassuring drink to offer to children, or anyone with a cold who feels sorry for themselves and who needs a little care. Pharmacy shelves abound with variations on this classic remedy, often containing pain killers and caffeine. To make the original remedy yourself at home, pour boiling water over a few thinly cut slices of fresh lemon. Stir, and leave to infuse for a few minutes. Add a few teaspoons of natural honey and stir before serving. Allow to cool to a safe temperature before giving hot honey and lemon drink to children.

Special Notice

These simple remedies should not be used as substitutes for medical attention for any serious health disturbance. When in doubt, consult your health advisor.


The copyright of the article Herbal Remedies for Colds in Herbal Medicine is owned by Joanne E. Brannan. Permission to republish Herbal Remedies for Colds in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.



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