Hitched to the tail of an average sneeze cling more than 45,000 saliva droplets with viruses just waiting to set up camp. While regular 20 second hand-washing sessions remain the best defense against flu and cold bugs, taking precautions against airborne critters is also beneficial to your health. When you’re not munching on foods that are high in vitamin C, consider exploring these alternative options that help to keep cold and flu viruses at bay.

Cough Remedies

• Oregano Oil: Oregano is a powerful antibacterial and antiviral agent; just the kind of help you need to fight pesky colds. Add a few drops of oregano oil to a bowl of steaming water. Drape a towel over your head like a cloak and inhale the steam until your throat feels less irritated. You can purchase oil of oregano online or in a health food store.

• Honey and Turmeric Powder: Honey’s antibacterial properties have been harnessed to stifle flu and colds and other health ailments since ancient times. Sprinkle turmeric, an anti-inflammatory spice, with one teaspoon of honey and consume the mixture 3 to 4 times daily. The potent combination will help ease throat pain and relax inflamed passageways.

Respiratory

• Eucalyptus and Sage Oil: The menthol in eucalyptus oil opens bronchial tubes, eases congestion and just makes breathing easier. To reap the benefits of this herb, add a few drops of the aromatic oil to a bowl of steaming water and inhale. Dr. Andrew Weil suggests adding sage oil to steam inhalations for extra help against respiratory issues.

• Ginger Tea: Ginger tea acts as a soothing, bittersweet expectorant for minor colds. Ginger also possesses anti-inflammatory properties that help to open nasal and bronchial passageways. Grate or press 1 to 2 tbsp. of ginger and add to a cup of boiling water. Allow the tea to steep for 2 to 5 minutes before drinking. Add honey or lemon for additional health benefits.

Herbal Preventatives

• Guduchi: Also known as Amrit, this herb is used in Ayurveda medicine to boost the immune system and reduce stress and anxiety. Stress weakens your immune system, making you more vulnerable to flu and other illnesses. As the winter season heralds in holidays that cause stress for many people, guduchi is an excellent herb to have on hand.

• Astragalus: This Chinese tonic herb prepares the immune system for combat in response to a cold and flu virus attack. Various research studies have found astragalus to protect the body against Streptococcus pneumonia, the microorganisms responsible for pneumonia.  

• Goldenseal: Researchers at the University of Texas say goldenseal has been found to decrease inflammation in mucous membranes. This speeds along the healing of sinus and respiratory passageways that are spawned by cold and flu viruses.

• Indian Gentian: This bitter Indian herb contains anti-infectious properties that help to detoxify the body during cold and flu season. You can find Indian gentian online and in health food stores. The Chopra Center recommends 340mg three times daily for five days to fully reap its benefits.

Have you tried any of these natural remedies?

More on Home Remedies from HalogenTV.com:

1. Honey: Nature’s One Size Fits All Remedy