When cold and flu season hits, having natural remedies on hand can help you recover faster and ease symptoms without relying on over-the-counter medications. As a firm believer in holistic wellness, I always keep a few key herbal remedies stocked in my home. These have been game-changers for boosting immunity, soothing coughs, and relieving congestion.

1. Elderberry Syrup – A Natural Immune Booster
Elderberries are packed with antioxidants and vitamin C, making them one of the best natural remedies for preventing and shortening colds and flu. Studies have shown that elderberry syrup can help reduce the duration and severity of symptoms.
How to Use:

• Take 1 teaspoon daily as a preventative measure.
• Increase to 1 tablespoon 3–4 times a day when feeling under the weather.

Check out my favorite organic elderberry syrup here!

2. Echinacea – The Immune System’s Best Friend
Echinacea is known for its ability to stimulate the immune system, helping your body fight off infections more effectively. It works best when taken at the first sign of illness.
How to Use:

• Take echinacea tincture or capsules at the first sign of a cold.
• Drink echinacea tea for immune support.

Find high-quality echinacea tincture here!

3. Peppermint Tea – Soothes Coughs and Congestion
Peppermint is a natural decongestant and can help break up mucus, relieve sinus pressure, and soothe a sore throat.
How to Use:

• Brew a hot cup of peppermint tea and inhale the steam before sipping.
• Add honey and lemon for extra soothing benefits.

This organic peppermint tea is my go-to!

4. Raw Honey – Nature’s Cough Suppressant
Raw honey is antibacterial, antiviral, and incredibly soothing for a sore throat and cough. It can also help with sleep when taken before bed.
How to Use:

• Take a spoonful of raw honey to calm nighttime coughing.
• Mix into warm water with lemon for a natural throat soother.

I always keep this raw honey in my pantry!

5. Ginger – Warming and Anti-Inflammatory
Ginger helps reduce inflammation, ease nausea, and fight infections. It’s excellent for warming the body and relieving congestion.
How to Use:

• Drink ginger tea to soothe a sore throat and ease digestion.
• Make a homemade ginger syrup for added immune support.

This organic dried ginger is perfect for teas!

Final Thoughts
Having these herbal remedies on hand can make a huge difference in how quickly you recover from a cold or flu. The key is to use them as soon as symptoms appear for the best results.
What are your go-to natural remedies for cold and flu season? Let me know in the comments!

INGREDIENTS
1 cup distilled water
1 tbsp dried lavender flowers
1 tbsp dried chamomile flowers
10 drops lavender essential oil
Spray bottle

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Boil the distilled water and steep the lavender and chamomile flowers for 20 minutes.
2. Strain the herbs and allow the liquid to cool completely.
3. Add the lavender essential oil to the cooled tea.
4. Pour into a spray bottle and shake well.
5. Mist onto pillows or around your bedroom to promote relaxation and better sleep.

INGREDIENTS
1 tsp dried peppermint leaves
1 tsp dried ginger root (or fresh grated ginger)
1 cup boiling water
Honey (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Combine the peppermint and ginger in a teacup.
2. Pour boiling water over the herbs and let steep for 10 minutes.
3. Strain and sweeten with honey if desired.
4. Sip slowly to ease digestive discomfort or boost focus.

INGREDIENTS
1/4 cup dried calendula flowers
1/4 cup dried plantain leaves
1/2 cup olive oil
1 oz beeswax
Small jar or tin

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Infuse the olive oil with calendula and plantain: Place herbs and oil in a double boiler or heatproof jar in a pot of water. Heat on low for 2-3 hours, ensuring the oil doesn’t burn.
2. Strain the herbs from the oil using cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer.
3. Return the oil to the double boiler and add the beeswax.
4. Stir until the beeswax melts, then pour into a clean jar or tin.
5. Let cool and solidify before use. This salve works wonders on cuts, scrapes, and dry skin.