Natural Cold and Flu Remedies That Actually Work
We are in the midst of our second polar vortex in the eastern United States and seeing a spike in flu cases. As we spend more time indoors with windows closed, we may be more susceptible to colds and flu. Instead of OTC meds, which deal with symptoms but have side effects, many of us are searching for natural ways to boost immunity and find relief. Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, offers a wealth of time-tested remedies to help the body combat seasonal illnesses and recover naturally.
Here are my go-to Ayurvedic remedies to prevent and manage cold and flu symptoms. You already have many of them in your spice drawer!
1. Ginger
The best remedy for seasonal colds is ginger. The warming properties of this spice boost digestion and burn toxins, both of which will aid in preventing getting sick. Ginger will also help break up mucus and relieve sore throats.
How to Use: Make a tea with equal parts ginger powder and cinnamon, plus two parts lemongrass. Steep in one cup of hot water for 10 minutes. Add honey if you’d like. Drinking several cups throughout the day will reduce both the intensity and duration of congestion, colds, and the flu.
Additionally, a tsp of ginger powder in a tsp of honey is a natural remedy for cough.
2. Cinnamon
Cinnamon is known for its antiviral and antibacterial properties, making it an excellent remedy for colds.
How to Use: Mix ½ tsp cinnamon and 1 tsp of honey for colds with cough and congestion. Eat this concoction 2-3 times a day. Brew a tea with cinnamon sticks and sip it warm several times daily. (Use Ceylon cinnamon as it is pure and unadulterated.)
3. Tulsi (Holy Basil)
Tulsi is revered in Ayurveda for its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties.
How to Use: Make a tea. Steep for 10 minutes. Drink 2-3 cups daily to soothe a sore throat and reduce congestion. Adding honey will boost the throat-soothing potential.
For a Fever, mix tulsi with lemongrass and fennel in equal proportions. Use 1 tsp for each cup of tea to help bring down a fever. The diaphoretic actions of these herbs will make you sweat and reduce the fever.
4. Eucalyptus Oil Steam
Eucalyptus oil is highly effective in relieving nasal congestion and sinus pressure.
How to Use: Add a few drops of eucalyptus essential oil to a pot of hot water. Cover your head with a towel over the pot and inhale the steam for 10 minutes. This practice will help clear nasal passages and soothe the lungs and dry coughs. You can also add a tsp of ginger powder for added decongestive benefit. If you don’t have any eucalyptus, simple steam inhalation will be good too.
5. Black Pepper
The hot, sharp, and penetrating qualities of black pepper make it a go-to remedy to help clear congestion. Black pepper is rejuvenating for the lungs and supports respiratory health.
How to Use: ¼-½ tsp of black pepper in a tsp of honey is a quick remedy for persistent coughs. You can add a pinch to broths, soups, and teas to hasten healing.
6. Golden/Tumeric Milk
You have probably heard to avoid all dairy if you have a cold or flu, which is good advice. The exception, however, is golden milk. Turmeric is a potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial agent that boosts the immune system.
How to Use: Mix half a teaspoon of turmeric powder and a pinch of black pepper in milk. Bring to a boil. Add honey if desired once it has cooled slightly. Drink before bedtime to alleviate cough and promote deep and restful sleep.
7. Rest
As much as possible, rest and relax. Your body will need all its resources to heal. Remember, sleep is medicine.
Final Thoughts
These simple Ayurvedic remedies are safe and effective to relieve your cold and flu symptoms while supporting your overall health and healing.
Ayurveda touts prevention over cure. Maintaining a well-balanced diet, strong agni (digestive fire), getting enough sleep and managing stress will keep your ojas (immunity) strong. The stronger and healthier you are in mind, body and spirit, the less likely you are to get sick.
For an added layer of protection and immunity boost during the winter, I recommend IMMUNE STRONG formula from Banyan Botanicals. Use the link and enter code KARI15 for 15% off.
It is always recommended to consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner for personalized guidance to ensure that remedies are tailored to your individual constitution. You can book a session or a bundle of sessions with Kari Harendorf here.
