Herbs for colds!

We seem to be in the middle of a cold hard winter.  Subzero temperatures, ice, and being cooped up too long inside are making this a time for colds to set in easily.  When I feel a cold coming on or when I am in the middle of a miserable upper respiratory infection, I turn to my herbal friends!

One way to boost the immune system and get some relief is with herbal teas.  I will make a mixture of herbs, usually following my instincts at the moment.  Some of the herbs that I rely on are peppermint (great for sinuses, antibacterial, tastes good), echinacea (also anti bacterial, anti viral), rosehips (full of vitamin C and they add a nice red color to the tea), lemon balm (another anti-bacterial), hibiscus (vitamin C and pretty), cinnamon and lemon (both anti-bacterial and taste good). Fresh ginger root is another immune strengthening herb that also tastes wonderful and warm.  A couple drops of honey makes it taste good and also adds healing anti-bacterial help. I never worry about exact proportions--just a little of this and a little of that.  I may only use one or two of the above herbs or all of them.  If I think I may have several days of feeling under the weather, I will mix enough to fill a pint jar so it is ready ahead.  I use muslin teabags that I rinse out and reuse or a teaball.  So try some!!  Experiment and have fun.  Don't forget to use a beautiful handmade mug.  I strongly feel that being surrounded with beauty also helps the immune system and nothing is more comforting than holding a warm handmade cup with steam coming out of it.  Breathe in the steam also...it really helps with the congestion!

Another way to combat the upper respiratory infections is to do a steam inhalation.  Get a blow (preferably a beautiful handmade one!), Place some eucalyptus leaves in it and top it off with a couple of drops of oregano essential oil.  If you don't have eucalyptus leaves, a drop or two of eucalyptus essential oil will work.  Have a bath towel handy.  Boil some water in a tea kettle.  When it is boiling heavily, pour it into the bowl on top of the leaves and oil.  Put your head down near the water (be careful not to get too close or you can burn your face on the steam) Cover your head and the bowl, forming a tent, with the towel to trap the steam in.  Inhale deeply.  Warning:  oregano oil is strong.  Only use a drop or two.  It will burn as it goes through your sinuses.  Your eyes will water and you will cough.  The steam will carry it deep into your respiratory track where it will then kill off viruses and bacteria.  Start with just a drop and work your way up to more as you become familiar with it.  The steam will make your sinuses feel so much better!!  Follow up with a cup of herbal tea and a nap.  You will begin to feel so much better!!

Warning: Use these herbs at your own risk.  I am only passing on general knowledge.  This article is not meant to be used to replace medical care.  Consult your doctor before trying anything especially if you are using prescription drugs that may interact with herbs.  Use common sense!