As the winter season approaches, we are more prone to catching a cold due to the sudden drop in temperature and the increase in virus activity.

While there are a number of over-the-counter medications that can help treat the symptoms of a cold, there are also a number of herbs that can help prevent and fight off a cold naturally.

1. Echinacea

Echinacea is a popular herb for boosting the immune system and preventing colds. It is available in various forms, including tea, supplements, and tinctures.

Echinacea has been found to reduce the severity and duration of cold symptoms, as well as boost the body’s natural defenses.

2. Ginger

Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory and can help relieve sore throats and coughs. It also has a warming effect on the body, which can help relieve chills and fever associated with a cold.

Ginger can be enjoyed as a tea or added to food and drinks, such as smoothies or soups.

3. Garlic

Garlic has been used for centuries to prevent and treat colds due to its antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-fungal properties. It can also help boost the immune system by increasing the production of white blood cells.

Garlic can be added to food or taken as a supplement.

4. Elderberry

Elderberry has been found to have antiviral properties that can help prevent and shorten the duration of colds. It is available in various forms, including syrup, tea, and supplements.

Elderberry has also been found to help relieve cold symptoms, such as coughs and congestion.

5. Peppermint

Peppermint has a cooling and soothing effect on the body, making it a popular herb for relieving coughs and congestion. It can also help relieve headaches and fever associated with a cold. Peppermint can be enjoyed as a tea or added to food and drinks.

6. Licorice Root

Licorice root has been found to have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that can help relieve sore throats and coughs associated with a cold. It can also help soothe the digestive system and boost the immune system.

Licorice root can be enjoyed as a tea or taken as a supplement.

7. Oregano

Oregano has antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-fungal properties that can help prevent and treat colds. It can also help boost the immune system and relieve coughs and congestion. Oregano can be added to food or taken as a supplement.

8. Turmeric

Turmeric is a natural anti-inflammatory and can help relieve sore throats and congestion associated with a cold. It can also help boost the immune system by increasing the production of white blood cells.

Turmeric can be added to food or taken as a supplement.

9. Sage

Sage has antibacterial and antiviral properties that can help prevent and treat colds. It can also help soothe sore throats and relieve congestion. Sage can be enjoyed as a tea or added to food.

10. Thyme

Thyme has antiseptic and antiviral properties that can help prevent and treat colds. It can also help relieve coughs and congestion. Thyme can be enjoyed as a tea or added to food.