Health Tips

Plants recommended for colds

Written on February 8, 2025, by Pauline de Santarome

You've probably experienced that unpleasant feeling of a cold setting in, leaving you tired and congested. Rather than rushing to buy over-the-counter medicines, why not trust nature to relieve these winter ailments? Echinacea, peppermint, thyme: plants, with their often underestimated healing properties, can be your allies against colds. In this article, Santaromeintroduces youto 10 plants that can relieve a cold.


Cold

History of herbal medicine for natural healing


For centuries, plants have been used to relieve cold symptoms. This practice, known as herbal medicine, is a form of traditional medicine that uses plants for natural healing.

 

The earliest evidence ofherbal medicine being usedto treat colds dates back to ancient times. The Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans already used plants such as thyme, peppermint, and eucalyptus to relieve symptoms of nasal congestion and coughs.

 

Over the centuries, other plants with medicinal properties have come to the fore: some have been used to boost the immune system and help the body fight infections, while others have been used to soothe irritated airways and sore throats. 

 

Today, herbal medicine is an effective option for those seeking natural treatment and a quick return to vitality.

 

10 effective plants for relieving colds 


Here are the top 10 plants with beneficial properties that can help you get rid of that winter malaise.

 

  1. Acerola

This small berry is packed with vitamin C, a major asset for strengthening the immune system. It can help you fight cold symptoms while giving your energy a boost.

 

  1. Propolis

Produced by bees, propolis has antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. It acts as a natural shield, helping to reduce the duration and intensity of cold symptoms.

 

  1. Thyme

When infused, thyme releases its essential oils with antiseptic properties. It is an excellent remedy for soothing coughs and clearing the airways.

 

  1. Rosemary

Rosemary is not just an aromatic herb. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce cold symptoms and speed up recovery.

 

  1. Echinacea

Echinacea is known for boosting the immune system. It can be consumed as a tea or dietary supplement to help your body fight viral infections.

 

  1. Garlic

This favorite cooking ingredient isn't just there to add flavor. Garlic has antimicrobial properties that can help fight respiratory infections.

 

  1. Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus is known for its respiratory benefits. Its essential oil clears the airways and relieves nasal congestion, providing rapid relief.

 

  1. Ginger

An excellent remedy for nausea, ginger also has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that can help alleviate cold symptoms, including coughs and sore throats.

 

  1. White Broth

This plant with sweet flowers is traditionally used to relieve coughs and sore throats. When brewed as a tea, mullein leaves can offer welcome relief.

 

  1. Elderberry

Elderflowers are valued for their antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. When brewed as a tea, they can help relieve cold symptoms such as fever and headaches.

⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Théa


Perfect

I recently discovered Santarome's hypertonic nasal spray, and it's a real gem! It's refreshing and super effective, instantly clearing the nasal passages.
It prevents irritation and provides immediate relief without causing dryness. Ultra-practical, I recommend it 100%!


How to use plants to treat a cold?


Incorporating these plants into your daily routine can help strengthen your immune system and alleviate cold symptoms. But how can you use them on a daily basis? Discover four different ways: 

 

  • As an infusion 

 

Infusions remain one of the simplest and most effective ways to reap the benefits of plants. Choose herbal teas made from thyme, peppermint, or echinacea. These hot infusions will soothe your throat, clear your airways, and offer you a moment of comfort.

 

  • Vapor inhalation

 

Steam inhalation is an ancient technique that continues to prove its worth. Add a few drops of eucalyptus essential oil to hot water and inhale the steam to clear your airways. This helps relieve nasal congestion and coughs.

 

  • Santarome Dietary Supplements

 

For an extra boost, discover the Respi’Rub range. Respi'Rub range from Santarome Bio. Our dietary supplements, available in various forms (tablets, spray, syrup, gummies), contain a trio of organic buds from alder, blackcurrant, and rosehip. Some products in the range also contain marshmallow, propolis, honey, thyme, eucalyptus, and other natural ingredients known for their beneficial properties. The isotonic sprays and hypertonic are made from Breton seawater (Saint-Guénolé) and are perfect for decongesting the nose by thinning mucus. Although these products are not intended to cure colds, they offer immediate relief and help strengthen the body's natural defenses.

 

  • Food

 

Your diet can also play a role infighting colds. Choose foods rich in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits, kiwis, and peppers, and don't forget to add garlic and/or thyme to your dishes! A balanced and nutritious diet will promote recovery and strengthen your immune system.

 

Choose modern, organic herbal medicine with Santarome! Whether in tablet, spray, syrup, or gummy form, discover how ourplant-based dietary supplements can help you enjoy a more peaceful winter.




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