Cold Remedies: Which Herbal Teas Soothe the Symptoms?

When winter settles in, colds tend to make their return. Though harmless, they leave you tired and bring on familiar symptoms: sore throat, cough, headaches, blocked nose or fever. Natural remedies are a wonderful way to help prevent a cold or soften its effects. Among them, a soothing herbal tea for colds offers real benefits for your well-being. Infusions of certain plants, fruits and flowers can become precious allies through the cold months. Here are a few natural ingredients to prepare your own herbal infusions at home.

Thyme infusion for the respiratory tract

Thyme is an aromatic plant often found in infusions and teas. Beyond its lovely flavour, thyme herbal tea is excellent for shortening the duration of a cold and easing respiratory symptoms. Thyme is known to calm coughs and may act as a natural expectorant. Thyme infusions also help to soothe inflammation and sore throats. What's more, thyme contains natural antioxidants that contribute to strengthening the body's defences during a cold. To prepare a comforting cold-relief infusion, steep three grams of dried leaves, or dilute a little thyme hydrosol in hot water.

Rosemary infusion for headaches

Another fragrant herb, rosemary is steeped in boiling water to create a warming herbal tea for colds. After a few minutes, the essential oil of rosemary gently releases into the cup. The plant's essential oils are valued for their anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. Rosemary infusion is also thought to improve blood circulation. Thanks to these benefits, it can help to ease the headaches that often come with a cold.

Lemon in your herbal tea for vibrant health

Rich in vitamin C, lemon is a wonderful ingredient to add to your cold-relief infusion. Simply squeeze a fresh organic lemon, or let lemon peel steep for a few minutes. Thanks to its antioxidant activity, vitamin C contributes to the normal function of the immune system. It also helps to fight off the fatigue of winter. If the infusion feels too tart, add a spoonful of honey. Honey naturally sweetens your cold-relief tea, and lemon also pairs beautifully with ginger.

Sage to relieve a sore throat

When a sore throat sets in, herbal infusions can be wonderful natural remedies. This is especially true of a sage leaf infusion. Sage is reputed for its astringent, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic qualities. Simply let a few sage leaves steep in boiling water for a few minutes, and you have a gentle cold-relief tea that soothes a sore throat.

The benefits of eucalyptus against colds

Eucalyptus is a plant well known for easing cold symptoms. It offers a soothing effect on the respiratory tract, throat, pharynx and vocal cords. For your cold-relief infusion, you can use eucalyptus leaves, or dilute a little eucalyptus hydrosol in a cup of hot water. Eucalyptus essential oil is also widely available, though it should never be used without medical advice.

Elderflower for fever

In winter, passing colds and the flu often bring on an uncomfortable fever. Elder is among the plants that encourage perspiration and therefore help to lower a fever. Elderflower infusions are also thought to support the immune system. Black elder contains polyphenols that help to prevent illness or soften its symptoms. Finally, a cold-relief tea made with elderflower can support the treatment of minor infections of the respiratory tract.

Easing symptoms with peppermint leaves

Colds often mean a blocked nose and congested sinuses. Set your tissues aside for a moment and reach for a peppermint leaf infusion. Both antibacterial and antiviral, peppermint is a wonderful natural ally against the common cold. The infusion releases menthol, a compound that helps clear the sinuses and nose. Peppermint also acts on the breakdown of mucus and on sore throats. Beyond its benefits for the respiratory system, mint creates a refreshing sensation, ideal when a fever sets in. This cold-relief tea is also believed to act as a muscle relaxant and to improve blood circulation. All of this helps to ease the symptoms of flu or cold, particularly aches and headaches. You now have every key in hand to prepare your own herbal tea for colds. You can infuse each of these ingredients on their own, or blend them to combine their flavours and benefits. And if time is short, choose a ready-made recipe, such as our organic thyme, rosemary and lemon infusion.