Ready for cold and flu season? The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration released its winter forecast, predicting a colder and wetter than average winter for the Pacific Northwest and northern Plains, equal chances for warmer or colder weather in the Northeast and central U.S., and warmer than usual conditions for some Southern and Western states. Where you live or however warm, or cold, your winter winds up being, protect yourself against winter ailments by stocking up on herbal cold and flu remedies.
Scientific studies have found the following five to be particularly effective at fighting the diseases and can be brewed as herbal teas or taken in supplement form.
Thyme
Keep a supply of thyme essential oil or dried thyme on hand in the event that you fall ill with either the flu or with a common cold. Thyme has long been known as an expectorant, which makes coughs more productive (that is, it helps clear out your lungs faster so you feel better sooner). You can brew a thyme herbal tea by steeping two teaspoons of fresh thyme in a cup of boiling-hot water for 10 minutes. Or, make a thyme steam bath: Toss either a handful of dried thyme a few drops of thyme essential oil into a bowl of hot water, and lean over the bowl, covering both your head and the bowl with a towel. Inhaling the steam will help loosen mucus in your chest.
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