Avoid Dangerous Cold Medications: These Homeopathic Solutions Work Like Magic

November 08, 2017

Stuffy nose? Sore throat? We hate to state the obvious, but you may be getting a cold. Instead of riding it out and avoiding over-the-counter cold medications, opt for something a little more natural. From an Emergen-C alternative to a home remedy that is sure to send your cold packing, we share a roundup of homeopathic cold medications to try this cold season.

1. Nature’s Way Umcka ColdCare Soothing Hot Drink

All you need is a soothing cup of this goodness. | Amazon

Instead of reaching for a packet of Emergen-C, go for something a little more natural with Nature’s Way Soothing Hot Drink ($10.99). Clinically proven to shorten the duration and severity of a cold, these little packets are the ultimate secret weapon against cold season. What’s more? Unlike other flavored hot drinks, this one actually tastes really good — like real lemon tea!

2. Vitamin D

A young man lies down on fresh grass while listening to music.

Make it a point to get outdoors. | iStock.com

According to Homeopathy Plus, another key way to bid colds adieu is with a vitamin D supplement. Vitamin D works to help the body’s immune system respond to viruses and bacteria. We love OLLY Nutrition Hello Sunshine ($13.99) as a tasteful way to incorporate vitamin D into our diets. In addition to fighting colds, vitamin D has been linked to bones, cells, and immune system health.

3. Sambucol Black Elderberry Immunity Support Syrup

Your immune system needs a boost during a code. | Target

Going on a Target run? Add Immunity Support Syrup ($9.29) to your list. Made from black elderberry extract — which can strengthen the immune system — this stuff can help you stay healthy through cold and flu season.

4. Nature’s Way Umcka ColdCare Cold Plus Flu Syrup

A bottle of Umcka Elderberry cough syrup.

A cough syrup you won’t hate taking. | Amazon

If you’re looking for a commercialized homeopathic cold remedy, try Nature’s Way Cold Plus Flu Syrup ($11.95). Formulated with pelargonium sidoides and alpha CF in a black elderberry extract base, this store-bought homeopathic cold and flu syrup combines two types of medicines to ward off cold and flu symptoms and get you feeling better in no time.

5. Zinc

A woman drinks a glass of water with her pills.

Don’t forget to take your Zinc. | CentralITAlliance/iStock/Getty Images

According to Homeopathy Plus, zinc is another way you can nip a cold in the bud. Vital for immune function, zinc can help T-cells recognize bacteria, viruses, and other foreign invaders. So, the next time you feel a cold coming on — or, are worried about getting sick — try taking a zinc supplement to ward off bacteria and symptoms.

6. Oil of oregano

Oregano oil has tons of health benefits. | iStock.com

Another common and natural way to beat a cold? With oil of oregano. According to this article on Dr. Oz, oil of oregano can be used as a homeopathic treatment for all kinds of ailments. And, thanks to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, it can help your immune system fight infections.

So, how do you use it? Well, if you’re feeling brave, you may try adding a few drops to water or juice — but, warning: The taste can be unbearable. For those who want to reap the benefits of oil of oregano without exposing their tastebuds to its potent flavor, consider vaporizing it. To do so, simply add one drop of the oil into a bowl of hot — almost boiling — water. Then, place a towel over your head and inhale until you find some relief.

7. Garlic and honey

A cup of tea with lemon and garlic on a wooden table.

A soothing drink that fights inflammation. | White Caty/iStock/Getty Images

If you’re feeling brave, you can also make a mixture out of garlic and honey to get rid of a cold. According to Homeopathy Plus, “garlic is fantastic at treating sore throats and infections.” They suggest crushing up five cloves of garlic in a cup of raw honey. Allow the mixture to sit for a couple of hours until it becomes runny and thin, then take teaspoonfuls as needed.

8. Bee Propolis Immune Support Sore Throat Spray

A spray bottle of Propolis dietary supplement.

The secret to calming a swollen throat. | Amazon

Whether you have a cold, dry cough, sore throat, or all of the above, Sore Throat Spray ($13.95) can offer some relief. Known as nature’s ultimate protector and the hive’s immune system, bee propolis has been used for centuries to combat various cold ailments and boost the body’s immune system.