Herbal Remedies for Colds

Herbal remedies are easy, generally safe and inexpensive ways to treat the annoying symptoms of a cold. With fewer side effects than prescription and over-the-counter remedies, herbal remedies soothe and can be extremely effective. Herbal remedies help to prevent as well as treat colds.

Function

• Herbal remedies for colds have value for the body's overall health and for specific cold symptoms. Herbs can strengthen the immune system to help prevent colds or to help reduce a cold's longevity. People often look for quick relief in nonprescription drugs. These chemical remedies for colds are advertised throughout the cold season. However, side effects associated with OTC (over-the-counter) drugs can be disturbing to the body's natural defenses and can create more problems than they solve. Herbal remedies, with their ancient healing histories, are natural alternatives to OTC's.

Benefits

• Herbal treatments for colds help the body naturally inhibit the growth of bacteria and viruses. There are herbs that treat the inflammation that accompanies colds and that act as expectorants to expel mucus from upper and lower respiratory tracts. The best uses of herbs are as preventative treatments. But, herbal remedies are available in the unhappy chance that you get a cold. Use herbs to boost the immune system, and to hydrate and fortify the body against colds.

Types

• Herbs are available in a variety of forms. Herbal remedies for colds come in teas or capsules. They are fresh and raw, and include fruits, roots and leaves. The best way to obtain any form is to be sure that the herbs are certified organic, which guarantees that the products are grown without genetic modification or pesticides. In order to prevent or treat a cold, you should use the purest herbs, which are the safest and most effective.

Effects

• Different herbal remedies produce different healing effects. Echinacea boosts the immune system and can reduce the length of a cold. To help prevent a cold, drink a cup of echinacea tea every day throughout the cold and flu season. Use eucalyptus, an antiseptic essential oil, to soothe and reduce upper respiratory inflammation. Inhale a handkerchief with a few drops of eucalyptus oil or use in a diffuser. Dried, essential oil or fresh rosemary eases headaches and soothes sore throats. Gargle with a diluted syrup or drink 1/2 cup of rosemary tea every 3 hours. Rosemary lifts the spirits too. Use fresh ginger as an all-in-one stimulant and expectorant. Dilute ginger essential oil to ease aching muscles with a gentle muscle rub.

Considerations

• Always consult a health care provider before using herbs to treat ailments. Be sure that there are no dangers of allergic reactions. Talk with a pharmacist for information about possible drug interactions with herbs. Store herbs in a dry wood box and keep it in a dark, cool place. Help herbal remedies by eating winter foods that are rich in vitamin C, such as broccoli and citrus fruits, and whole grains for their zinc content. Reduce stress with positive thinking and by getting adequate rest. These measures will enhance the benefits of herbal remedies and will promote overall good health and nutrition.