Now is the perfect time to start preparing for the colder season- and that includes your herbal remedies! There are many ways to support your body during any sickness that the season might bring. And while they include simple ingredients, some require some time to sit before they’re ready to use. This post will dive into common herbs for cold and flu season, and how you can begin preparing now.
The following statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. The information in this post is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease.
In this Post
Immune Supportive Herbs
When it comes to using herbs medicinally, there are some that are supportive and some that are active. Supportive herbs give the body a strong basis for fighting infection and functioning well. Active herbs have stronger effects, and generally stimulate the body to produce a desired effect. The following herbs are supportive to the immune system and can be used daily.
- Elderberry– You’ve probably heard of this one. It’s a popular ingredient in pre-blended teas, syrups, lozenges, and gummies. Elderberry has immune-enhancing and antiviral properties.
- Hibiscus– This herb is packed with vitamin C, and it tastes good too! It’s also loaded with a lot of other vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Rose hips– Contains more vitamin C than almost any other herb.
Everyday Preparations
In order for these preparations to be most helpful to the body, they must be paired with a healthy diet and lifestyle. Make sure that you get a wide variety of nutrients from food. Remain hydrated with balanced electrolytes, and get an adequate amount of exercise and sunshine.
- Elderberry Syrup– This is one of the easiest herbal preparations to make. By simmering elderberries and other herbs together and adding local honey, you can make a delicious way to support your body daily. Take up to a tablespoon a day for maintenance (1 tsp for children over 1yr), and increase the frequency if you fall sick.
- Pre-Blended Teas– an herbal tea can be an easy way to get a wide variety of vitamins and minerals in a tasty way. Add varying amount of beneficial herbs to a bowl and maybe a few for taste. Give it a generous mix and save in an air tight container for daily use. Steep a teaspoon of your herbal blend in boiling water for 5-7 minutes and enjoy!
Active Herbs
These herbs are intended to combat specific symptoms of sickness. They are strong in their actions, and are not intended to be used for maintenance.
- Echinacea– a strong immune stimulant, meaning is strengthens a response against sickness. This is common in many store-bought remedies and is safe for children as well.
- Garlic– also an immune stimulant, but no need to worry. There is evidence that these properties are lessened when cooked. Has antibacterial and antiviral properties.
- Coltsfoot– its botanical name, tussilago translates to cough-dispeller, and for good reason. This herb is an antiasthmatic and very effective for bronchial ailments.
- Elecampane– also an amazing bronchial herb, as it’s an expectorant.
- Mullein– probably the most well-known lung herbs, a wonderful expectorant.
Sick Day Remedies
Start these remedies today in order to be prepared for the sick days ahead.
- Fire Cider– Aptly named, this remedy includes a host of vitamins, minerals, and properties to help the body fight cold and flu symptoms. There are many recipes, but this is made by packing a jar with citrus, onions, garlic, horseradish, ginger, cinnamon, clove, peppercorns, and any other beneficial herbs and then covering with apple cider vinegar for 4 weeks. Once strained, this can be stored at room temperature. Take a tablespoon a day at the onset of sickness.
- Sick Day Syrup– Elderberry Syrup, but with some stronger, stimulating herbs. Add echinacea or some lung-supporting herbs in a second batch of syrup so you have an extra boost on hand.
- Ear ache oil– Many natural food stores sells a premade version, but you can also make your own. Slice some garlic and add some mullein leaf to a jar. Cover with a high quality EVOO, and let it sit in a sunny spot for 2 weeks. Strain and have it ready to use for ear aches. The garlic fights bacteria and inflammation, and the mullein (expectorant) helps move fluid.
- Tinctures– A simple process of covering herbs with 80 proof alcohol to extract active medicinal properties. These steep for 4 weeks, so you should start these soon! You can take these directly or add them to any beverage.
- Tea Blends– keep individual herbs on hand to make a customized tea by the cup. Reach for herbs based on symptom and add some for flavor.
I hope you feel inspired to stock your own shelves with herbal remedies for the coming cooler season. If you need a little more encouragement, check out my post on why I reach for herbs first.
If you’re curious about my home apothecary or my favorite herbs, you can read my recent Herb of the Month posts.
Thank you for visiting Headed for a Homestead Blog. I’m Rebekah, your creator and author since 2023. As a new blogger in this big space, I’m still learning the ropes, and just as excited as when I began. I hope you’ll take some time to look around and maybe find a recipe or project you’d like to try.
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