Be prepared for the cold and flu season by stocking your herbal medicine chest with a ready supply of herbs that are antibacterial, as well as those that help reduce fevers, break up congestion, quiet coughs, and soothe aches and pains. We still cannot cure the common cold, but many families have their own trusted home remedies for colds that are treasured and passed down from generation to generation because they work so well. Grandma really did know best when it came to home remedies for colds. Herbal teas with lemon, eucalyptus, thyme and mint teas, served with a generous dollop of honey put to shame any store bought chemical concoctions sold at the drugstore. Homemade hot chocolate may be the best thing for a child with a cold and you don't have to hold their noses in order to get them to "take their medicine." My own favorites are the warming cordials made with black cherry, elder berries, spices and brandy. These warming, hardy winter drinks are fun to drink and share with friends, even if you don't have the sniffles.

Bronchitis : Herbs for bronchitis help expand lung passages and inhibit bronchial spasms. These herbal remedies soothe sore throats, are expectorant, anti-inflammatory, and directly antiviral.
Cough : The phytochemical compounds in common herbs may actually be a more effective cough medicine than traditional or over-the counter cold and cough products. Learn how to make these simple home cough remedies for your family.
Flu/Viral Infections : Herbs work holistically to prevent and treat flu symptoms and fortify the immune system to ward off infections. A recent study by a team of surgeons showed eucalyptus, tea tree, thyme and 10 other essential oils killed a number of common and hospital-acquired infections
Sinusitis : Aromatherapy steam therapy is therapeutic for sinus headaches, and sinus infections. Essential oils offer analgesic, anti-bacterial properties to combat infection, and anti-inflammatory properties that help to open clogged airways
Congestion : The beauty of using real essential oils is that they act on many levels to relieve congestion. One the physical level they help you to breathe easier, while the antibacterial action helps cleanse the air of germs. Drinking soothing herbal teas can provide natural relief from sinus and chest congestion, clear mucus from the airways and help you breathe easier .
Sore Throat/Laryngitis : A warm herbal infusion of soothing herbs will help comfort a sore throat. Honey and lemon not only add to the taste but to the healing process as well. You can also apply the healing power of herbs directly by herbal gargles and steam inhalations.
Immune System : Botanical and herbal medicines have a dual mode of action against infectious diseases - they kill germs and viruses, and they stimulate the body's own defenses by strengthening the immune system.