Colds: which herbal infusions can help relieve the symptoms?

Winter brings colds back with a vengeance. Harmless as they are, they leave you drained, with a sore throat, a cough, headaches, a blocked nose or a fever. Natural remedies are a great way to prevent a cold from taking hold or to ease its effects. Among them, herbal infusions for colds offer real benefits for your wellbeing. Infusions made from certain plants, fruits or flowers can be a genuine support through the winter months. Here are some natural ingredients to help you prepare your own.

Thyme infusion for the airways

Thyme is an aromatic herb that appears regularly in infusions and teas. Beyond its flavour, a thyme infusion is excellent for shortening a cold and calming respiratory symptoms. Thyme is thought to ease coughing and act as an expectorant. Thyme infusions may also help reduce inflammation and soothe a sore throat. What's more, thyme contains natural antioxidants, which may help strengthen the body's defences during a cold. To prepare a good cold-relief infusion, steep three grams of dried leaves or dissolve thyme hydrosol in hot water.

Rosemary infusion for headaches

Another aromatic herb, rosemary can be steeped in boiling water to make a cold-relief infusion. After a few minutes, the essential oil of rosemary begins to release into the drink. The plant's essential oils are thought to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. Rosemary infusion may also support healthy blood circulation, and thanks to these benefits, it may help reduce headaches during a cold.

Lemon in your infusion for a stronger constitution

Rich in vitamin C, lemon is a wonderful addition to a cold-relief infusion. Squeeze an organic lemon or steep lemon peel in hot water for a few minutes. With its antioxidant activity, vitamin C contributes to the normal functioning of the immune system and helps fight winter fatigue. If you find the infusion too sharp, add a spoonful of honey to naturally sweeten it. Lemon also pairs beautifully with ginger.

Sage for a sore throat

When a sore throat strikes, plant-based infusions are among the best natural remedies. Sage leaf infusion is a prime example. Sage is thought to have astringent, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. Simply steep a few sage leaves in boiling water for a few minutes and you have a soothing cold-relief infusion ready to calm your throat.

The benefits of eucalyptus for colds

Eucalyptus is a plant that helps ease your symptoms. It offers a soothing effect on the airways, the throat, the pharynx and the vocal cords. For your cold-relief infusion, you can use eucalyptus leaves or eucalyptus hydrosol, diluted in a cup of hot water. Eucalyptus essential oils are widely available, though it is not advisable to use them without medical guidance.

Elderflower for fever

In winter, colds or flu often bring an unpleasant fever. Elderflower is among the plants that encourage perspiration and therefore help bring a fever down. Elderflower infusions are also thought to support the immune system. Black elder contains polyphenols that may help prevent illness or reduce its symptoms. Elderflower infusions may also support the treatment of minor respiratory infections.

Easing symptoms with peppermint leaves

Colds often mean a blocked nose and congested sinuses. Put down the tissues and reach for a peppermint leaf infusion instead. Antibacterial and antiviral, peppermint is an effective natural remedy for fighting colds. The infusion releases menthol, a compound that helps clear the sinuses and nose. Peppermint may also act on mucus breakdown and sore throats. Beyond its benefits for the airways, peppermint delivers a cooling sensation, which is particularly welcome when you have a fever. This cold-relief infusion is also thought to act as a muscle relaxant and support blood circulation, helping to ease flu and cold symptoms, especially aches and headaches. You now have everything you need to prepare your own cold-relief infusion. These ingredients can be steeped individually or blended together to combine the flavours and benefits of each. If you're short on time, reach for a ready-made blend such as our organic thyme, rosemary and lemon infusion.