If you’re one of the millions who suffer from cold symptoms each year, you know how frustrating it can be. The constant sneezing, stuffy nose, and general discomfort can put a damper on your daily activities.

While there are various over-the-counter remedies available, many people prefer a natural approach to alleviate their symptoms. In this DIY guide, we’ll explore different natural ointments you can make at home to combat the common cold.

Why Use Natural Ointments?

Natural ointments offer several advantages over conventional medications. First and foremost, they are free from harsh chemicals that can sometimes cause side effects.

Secondly, they are often more cost-effective as you can make them using ingredients readily available in your pantry or local grocery store. Lastly, natural remedies provide a more holistic approach to healing, addressing not only the symptoms but also the underlying causes.

Herbal Ointment

One popular natural remedy for cold symptoms is an herbal ointment. This ointment is made by infusing healing herbs into a base, such as coconut oil or beeswax. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:.

Ingredients:

1 cup of coconut oil
1 tablespoon of dried eucalyptus leaves
1 tablespoon of dried peppermint leaves
1 tablespoon of dried thyme leaves
1 tablespoon of dried lavender flowers

Instructions:

Combine all the dried herbs in a glass jar and cover with coconut oil.
Place the jar in a warm spot, such as a windowsill, and let it sit for 2-4 weeks, shaking it occasionally.
After the infusion period, strain the oil, removing all the solid particles.
Melt beeswax in a double boiler, and once melted, add the infused oil. Stir well to combine.
Pour the mixture into small containers or tins and let it cool completely before using.

To use the herbal ointment, simply apply a small amount to your chest, back, or under your nose. The soothing aroma and warming effect will help unclog sinuses and provide relief from congestion.

Vapor Rub Ointment

A classic remedy for cold symptoms is vapor rub ointment. While you can buy vapor rub from the store, making your own allows you to control the ingredients and tailor it to your preferences. Here’s how:.

Ingredients:

¼ cup of olive oil
¼ cup of coconut oil
2 tablespoons of grated beeswax
20 drops of eucalyptus essential oil
10 drops of peppermint essential oil
10 drops of rosemary essential oil

Instructions:

In a double boiler, melt the olive oil, coconut oil, and beeswax together.
Once melted, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Stir in the eucalyptus, peppermint, and rosemary essential oils.
Pour the mixture into a clean container and let it solidify.

Apply a small amount of the vapor rub to your chest or throat before sleeping, allowing the natural vapors to clear your airways and provide relief from congestion.

Essential Oil Balm

Another effective option for combating cold symptoms is an essential oil balm. Essential oils have been used for centuries for their healing properties, and when combined with a carrier oil and beeswax, they create a soothing balm.

Here’s a recipe to try:.

Ingredients:

½ cup of carrier oil (such as almond oil or jojoba oil)
2 tablespoons of grated beeswax
30 drops of eucalyptus essential oil
20 drops of tea tree essential oil
15 drops of lavender essential oil

Instructions:

In a double boiler, melt the carrier oil and beeswax together.
Once melted, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Add the eucalyptus, tea tree, and lavender essential oils. Stir well to combine.
Pour the mixture into small containers and let it solidify.

Apply the essential oil balm to your chest, neck, or temples for quick relief from congestion and sinus discomfort.

Ginger and Honey Salve

Ginger and honey have long been used as natural remedies for cold symptoms. Combining them into a soothing salve can provide relief from congestion and sore throat. Here’s how to make it:.

Ingredients:

½ cup of grated fresh ginger
¼ cup of honey
2 tablespoons of olive oil

Instructions:

Place the grated ginger, honey, and olive oil in a small saucepan.
Heat the mixture on low heat for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Strain the mixture to remove any ginger particles.
Pour the salve into a clean container and let it solidify.

To use the ginger and honey salve, apply a small amount to your chest or throat for immediate relief from congestion and a soothing effect on your sore throat.

Conclusion

Combatting the symptoms of a cold can be achieved through various natural methods. Making your own ointments allows you to customize the ingredients and tailor them to your specific needs.

Whether it’s an herbal infusion, vapor rub, essential oil balm, or ginger and honey salve, these DIY remedies can provide relief from congestion, sore throat, and other common cold symptoms. Embrace the power of nature and take control of your health in a gentle and effective way.