10 medicinal plants to prevent colds, colds and flu naturally

There are medicinal plants that can help us prevent colds (or colds) and flu in a natural and simple way. During the seasonal changes, at the beginning of autumn and during winter, periods of sustained stress and eating an unbalanced diet, colds and flu become very common illnesses.

In this article we propose some plants or medicinal herbs that, used as home remedies, can improve your health to be stronger against these types of diseases and be able to avoid them or reduce their symptoms in case of suffering them. You can also see home remedies for coughs , and how to prepare homemade vaporub for congestion and coughs .

Definition of cold or cold and flu

A cold is an infection in the respiratory system caused by a virus. The cold is spread by direct contact with a patient. People with asthma, allergies, and anxiety are more prone to colds. The symptoms of colds begin in stages and gradually and may be such as an occasional sore throat, ears, nose and nasal congestion, cough and fever. The cold can last about 5 days.

Influenza is an acute infection of the upper respiratory tract also caused by viruses. If it is not treated properly, a bacterial infection can also occur that would give way to pneumonia . The flu is spread by direct contact, airway and through sneezing and small drops that we expel when we speak or cough. The symptoms of the flu are fever, cough, runny nose, headache, muscle and throat pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and can last between 5 and 7 days. The flu starts suddenly.

In addition to being able to use the indicated medicinal plants or herbs, we must maintain good hygiene habits (especially wash our hands well), eat a healthy and balanced diet rich in antioxidants , drink enough fluids, and rest and sleep the necessary hours.

10 medicinal plants to prevent colds or colds and flu

Thyme

It is a plant that strengthens the immune system preventing virus infections. Thyme is a powerful antibacterial, reduces fever, calms coughs and promotes the expulsion of excess mucus. It is taken preparing it in infusions, you can make thyme syrup, in tinctures, etc.

Astragalus

This medicinal plant stimulates the defenses of our immune system, strengthening it to fight viruses. It is a tonic for the respiratory system and a very effective plant for chronic diseases related to the immune system. Relieves allergy symptoms, fights tiredness and provides vitality. It is taken in infusion or tinctures.

Licorice

It is an excellent natural option to stimulate the functioning of our immune system against pathogens such as viruses due to its antiviral properties. In addition, licorice has the quality of reducing inflammation and due to its expectorant power, which is why it is also very beneficial for cases of bronchitis, coughs and colds. The bark is used in infusion or tincture.

Echinacea

A great medicinal plant is known because it has the quality of strengthening the immune system and thus being able to combat the attacks of viruses and bacteria and be able to neutralize them before they cause serious damage to health. In addition, echinacea has anti-inflammatory action. Echinacea can be taken in infusion and also in tincture. See how to prepare echinacea tincture at home .

Nettle

Very beneficial herb to stimulate and improve the functioning of the immune system. This medicinal plant is excellent to take during periods when we have low defenses to improve our health and prevent infectious diseases caused by viruses such as colds and flu. It also has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, expectorant and antihistamine action.

Cat’s claw

A powerful natural remedy to prevent virus diseases. This medicinal plant stimulates the natural defenses of our body to fight pathogens and avoid infections. It is a very complete plant that in addition to being an immunostimulant has many other benefits for our health. It is prepared in infusion.

Black cumin or Ajenuz

It is a plant that has been traditionally used to treat infectious diseases and enhance the functioning of the immune system. It improves our defenses to help us fight the attack of infectious agents. It is also a natural remedy to improve the functioning of the lymphatic system and prevents or mitigates allergies and asthma. The infusion is prepared with the seed.

Ginger

Increase defenses. It is a perfect ally to fight viruses and bacteria, making it one of those essential natural remedies to take care of our health and prevent diseases such as colds and flu. It also reduces pain and inflammation. We can take it by making a ginger infusion or preparing a ginger tincture .

Green Tea

It is rich in antioxidants, (it has more amounts even than red tea ) it helps us fight viruses and bacteria and prevent infections. Green tea promotes the proper functioning of our immune system and is a very simple home remedy to prepare and take. When you are in times of great stress, you are not eating well and you have people with flu and colds around … do not hesitate, have a few cups of green tea to prevent getting sick.

Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus leaves have antiseptic, antiviral, antibacterial, decongestant, expectorant, febrifuge… action. It is an excellent ally to take in the form of an infusion, in essential oil or steam when we want to prevent the appearance of colds or flu or when we begin to notice the first symptoms. Thanks to its medicinal properties we will minimize symptoms such as fever, pain or nasal congestion.