The first thing you notice is a scratchy throat. Then sneezing attacks follow, the consumption of handkerchiefs increases, and we cough our hearts out. Headaches and body aches accompany the mess. A common cold usually goes something like this. The well-known saying “It takes two weeks with medication and 14 days without it” is then on the lips of many. Our immune system takes care of fighting the pathogens fully automatically and drives the healing process forward. But sometimes the body’s own strength is not enough. Especially if the patients don’t take it easy. Then the organism can do something
need support. On this and the following pages, read what medicinal plants can do for you. Not all help with everyone equally reliably, sometimes it requires a bit of trial and error.
But once you have found “your” remedy, targeted self-medication with herbal remedies often makes a visit to the doctor (and his waiting room full of viruses) unnecessary. Although timely intervention does not end the process abruptly, it can shorten it noticeably. You should only see a doctor to be on the safe side if the symptoms keep getting worse.
Table of Contents
ivy
HELPS WITH: Bronchitis. It’s not just the tormenting cough that’s annoying here, it’s also often difficult to breathe. Saponins in the ivy extract have a two-fold effect: the plant substances liquefy the secretion so that it drains better and loosen the cramped bronchial muscles, the constricted airways widen again.
PLUG IN: e.g. B. “Bronchostad cough suppressant syrup”, in pharmacies
thyme
HELPS WITH: Respiratory infections, bronchitis and whooping cough. Thyme has a lot to offer not only as a delicious kitchen spice, but also as a medicinal plant. The abundant essential oil thymol has a strong antimicrobial effect, terpenes promote expectoration and flavonoids relieve coughing spasms.
PLUG IN: e.g. B. “Bad Heilbrunner Thyme Tee”, in drugstores and in the food trade
water dost
HELPS WITH: flu infections. North American primitive peoples have always protected themselves against infections with leaves and flower spikes. Today we know that the active ingredients contained fight viruses, inhibit inflammation and stimulate the immune system. Researchers at the University of Münster were even recently able to demonstrate the effectiveness of special substances contained in the water canister against real influenza viruses.
PLUG IN: e.g. B. “Contramutan”, in pharmacies
eucalyptus
HELPS WITH: Bronchitis. The cineole obtained from the leaves can prevent chronic bronchitis. The anti-inflammatory effect means that less viscous mucus is produced. In addition, it restores the mobility of the airway cilia, which can then better transport mucus and pathogens away.
PLUG IN: e.g. B. “Pinimenthol” (various products), in pharmacies
sage
HELPS WITH: Difficulty swallowing, sore throat. The side effects of an inflamed mouth and throat mucosa respond well to sage. The leaves contain essential oils and urolic acid that kill germs. Special tannins relieve the pain. Ideal for gargling.
PLUG IN: e.g. B. “Salus sage herbal drops”, in pharmacies, health food stores and health food stores
bryony
HELPS WITH: Cold, Pneumonia. In homeopathic dilution, the poisonous plant (Bryonia) loses its danger and we can benefit from the powerful anti-inflammatory effect. Supplemented with other herbal active ingredients available in combination preparations.
PLUG IN: e.g. B. “Infludoron”, in pharmacies
Icelandic moss
HELPS WITH: Hoarseness. The mucus-forming substances of the lichen species are a real blessing for an irritated throat . They lie on the mucous membranes like a protective, soothing layer. In addition, the ingredients can inhibit the spread of pathogens. Used early, they prevent worse.
PLUG IN: e.g. B. “isla moos”, in pharmacies
Spitzwegerich
HELPS WITH: Colds with cough. Because of its many mucilage and bitter substances, plantain is very suitable as a cough syrup. Added to this is its natural antibiotic effect, which provides helpful services without side effects in feverish inflammatory diseases of the airways. Also available as a bronchial balm for application to the skin or as globules.
PLUG IN: e.g. B. “Plantago cough syrup”, in pharmacies
Kapland-Pelargonie
HELPS WITH: Respiratory infections. The extract from the roots of the South African medicinal plant loosens stubborn mucus and makes it easier to cough up. Taking it also strengthens the immune system.
PLUG IN: e.g. B. “Pelargonium – ratiopharm bronchial drops”, in pharmacies
Blue monkshood
HELPS WITH: feverish infections. The most poisonous plant in Europe is only used as a remedy in homeopathic dilution. It works in the case of emerging colds as well as in the acute phase. Aconitum, as it is scientifically called, is often found in combination preparations with other active ingredients.
PLUG IN: e.g. B. “Nisylen”, in pharmacies
coneflower
HELPS WITH: Colds. The coneflower, Echinacea in Latin, stimulates the immune system, viruses then have almost no chance. Combined with active ingredients from the tree of life and the husk, the healing power is increased many times over. Complaints are alleviated and the duration of the illness is shortened.
PLUG IN: e.g. B. “Esberitox”, in pharmacies
