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Cooler autumn weather contributes to the spread of respiratory illnesses, such as the flu or viral infections. Fortunately, tried-and-true natural remedies have existed for many centuries, allowing you not only to treat yourself but also to achieve the best prevention. Today we look at the three most common, most used and most effective herbs you can use for a cold. They are:
· coltsfoot,
· echinacea,
· plantain.
Coltsfoot
Coltsfoot grows at the very beginning of spring. You can encounter it outdoors at the end of February or the beginning of March. Of course, you can also obtain it in a pharmacy all year round. It is primarily effective against cough. In general it soothes coughs and will certainly please anyone who is ill. The substances it contains coat the inflamed mucous membranes of the bronchi and thus provide them with excellent protection. If you suffer from chronic bronchitis, definitely pick some up at the pharmacy.
The best way to consume it is, of course, as a tea. However, you should never make a tea from coltsfoot alone, as you could easily overdose. The ideal mix is 30 g coltsfoot, 20 g Iceland moss, 12 g eucalyptus, 12 g chamomile, 10 g anise, 8 g echinacea and 8 g thyme. Mix the blend thoroughly and store it in a sealable container. When preparing the tea use one and a half tablespoons per half liter of hot water and let it steep for 15 minutes.
Echinacea
In nature you can recognize it quite well because it has hairy, fluffy leaves and yellow flowers. Like other herbs, this one reduces inflammation in the body, loosens mucus and decreases the intensity of cough. In addition, it helps eliminate dry cough and speeds up the expectoration of mucus. You can get it in the form of dried herbs, or you can buy a classic syrup at the pharmacy.
If you prefer completely natural ingredients and like to drink tea, you have a chance. Put 20 g echinacea, 30 g thyme, 20 g anise, 20 g primrose root, 10 g licorice root, 10 g coltsfoot into the mixture. Prepare the tea the same way as described above. As you can see, the herbs repeat everywhere, just each time in a different ratio. So what you choose and what you will like more is entirely up to you.
Plantain
Plantain has a very strong root system. Thanks to that it can take hold practically anywhere and is a plant that endures even harsh conditions. It has a lot of positive effects. Its leaves are used in folk medicine to treat burns and open wounds. But its most frequent use is precisely in the case of cough. It is one of the most important and most effective herbs you can use against cough.
As in the previous case, pharmacists will surely offer you countless plantain products. You can choose syrup, but also lozenges. And you don’t have to take advantage of its wonderful properties only when you have a cold or a viral illness, but also if you are a heavy smoker or have problems with cough in old age.
