It’s that time of year – cold and flu season. People across the country are scrambling to keep their immune systems strong and find ways to fight the common cold naturally.
But, how do you do that? Are there any natural cold remedies that actually work? Like a loud, sneaky sneeze, the answer is a “Yes!” resounding. A lot natural remedies provide safe and effective relief.
Note: This article contains affiliate links that help fund our Recycling directorythe most comprehensive in North America.
Here are five natural remedies you can try when you or members of your family have a cold.
bone broth
You know the ancient practice of feeding sick children chicken noodle soup? Well, there could be something to that.
Although chicken soup won’t cure a cold, bone broth is packed with nutrients. It can help fight inflammation And help you rest so that your body can fight off the virus. Additionally, drinking hot beverages can soothe a sore throat while the steam calms irritated nasal passages.
It would be better make your own bone broth. You can control the ingredients and it’s much more affordable. You can do this by simmering the bones and connective tissues of any animal, but chicken And beef are most common in the United States
Plus, for those who still eat meat, drinking bone broth allows you to get all the nutrition possible from the parts of the animal you can’t eat.
Vitamin C
As often recommended, vitamin C is an effective preventative against the common cold because it strengthens the immune system. It can also decrease the reproduction of viruses and reduce inflammation and mucus in the nasal cavity.
It’s better for you and for the planet if you can get your vitamin C from the foods you eat. These foods are rich in vitamin C: broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, kiwi, lemons, oranges, parsley, peaches, strawberries and tomatoes. If you need an extra push, vitamin C supplements are a great choice – and if chewable gummy vitamins aren’t for you, try capsules.
Essential oils
Many essential oils are known for their ability to support the immune system and fight threats to your body. Some of these oils include Clove, cinnamon, incense, Oregano, geranium, lavender, melaleuca (also known as tea tree oil), eucalyptusAnd Rosemary.
When shopping for essential oils, look for high quality, pure oils labeled as independently tested and safe for consumption. You want to select products from a company that does not adulterate their oils, and only companies that are confident in the purity of their oils label them that way.
Earth911 offers a guide to seven essential oils to have in your medicine cabinet, along with tips on using essential oils to create your own natural remedies.
Hot tea
Drinking fluids and staying hydrated is essential for recovering from a cold. Hot herbal tea is a great choice for avoiding dehydration and preventing your nose and throat from drying out at the same time. Many teas also have antioxidant properties that help support the immune system and flush toxins from your body. Be sure to choose a sustainable tea.
master tonic
Many foods have been known for centuries for their antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal properties. Some of these foods include onions, garlic, ginger, horseradish, and hot peppers.
Raw apple cider vinegar is also known for its ability to fight threats to your body. Combine the ingredients into a formula called master tonic Or fire cider to help you fight the common cold this winter. Do this now, as it takes a while to infuse.
If that’s not enough to prevent the common cold naturally, here are several links to more helpful remedies:
Feature image courtesy of Allan Foster, Originally published on December 29, 2014, this article was updated in February 2023.
