Herbal Teas That Fight Cold

While there is no real cure for the common cold, some herbal teas can help to alleviate some of the symptoms commonly associated with colds such as sneezing, itchy and watery eyes, stuffed-up nose, sore throat and cough. Herbal remedies work by fighting off infection along with promoting a strong immune system. Herbal teas are a good way to boost your immune system and ease some of the uncomfortable symptoms common to colds. For persistent cold symptoms, see your physician.

Sage Tea

• Sage contains antiseptic and astringent properties according to Cascade Anderson Geller, an herbal educator and consulting herbal practitioner in the book, "The Doctor's Book of Herbal Home Remedies." It helps to fight infections while drying up problems such as post nasal drip. To ease symptoms of a cold, drink 1/2 cup of sage tea twice a day between meals. Steep 1 tsp. of dried medicinal sage in 1/2 cup of boiling water, strain and drink slowly.

Yarrow, Elder, Peppermint and Catnip

• Yarrow, elder and peppermint are a classic herbal tea combination used to treat colds. The addition of catnip adds a decongestant component. Drink 3 to 4 cups of this tea blend daily. All of these herbs stimulate the immune system by raising the body's temperature. This is the body's natural defense mechanism that fights against germs and viruses. It makes your body's environment less hospitable to germs because they have more difficulty growing and multiplying at high temperatures. Combine equal parts of elder and yarrow flowers and peppermint and catnip leaves. Use the dried form. Make tea by steeping 1 tsp. of the mixture in 8 oz. of boiling water. Strain and drink.

Green Tea

• Drink 1 cup of green tea per day during the duration of your cold. Green tea has strong anti-inflammatory properties that help to calm the production of mucous. Look for green tea in ready-made tea bags in most health food stores. To make a medicinal tea, steep the tea bag for at least ten minutes. Strain and drink.