Herbal remedies revealed: Fight fall and winter infections naturally

Are you feeling the first signs of fall-winter infections? Instead of reaching for pharmaceuticals, it's worth considering natural and easily accessible products. A phytotherapist advises which herbs and spices are most effective during times of heightened illnesses.

The infection season is approaching rapidly. We feel weak and are plagued by runny noses, coughs, headaches, and low-grade fevers. Agnieszka Skowerska, a herbalist, naturopath, aromatherapist, and phytotherapist known on social media as the Herb Queen, recommends herbs as an alternative to traditional medications. She suggests five herbs that are worth using in the fall and winter to fight infections.

During the fall-winter period, viruses start to attack more intensely, affecting both younger and older populations. Respiratory viruses are most active in low temperatures. Exhausted by the cold, we become easy targets, and our immune system works worse, partly due to a deficiency in vitamin D3, making us more prone to illnesses.

"Medications often reduce the symptoms of seasonal infections only slightly, while causing a range of side effects: drowsiness, digestive problems, headaches. Herbs, including those used as spices found in your kitchen cabinet, are far more effective in reducing cold symptoms," Agnieszka Skowerska recommends on social media.

We can list five herbs that are worth keeping on hand during the fall-winter season. These are rosemary, marjoram, thyme, oregano, and cloves. She recommends pouring boiling water over one teaspoon of dried herbs or a few cloves, covering it for 15 minutes, and then straining. You can add lemon, ginger, or honey to enhance the flavor. Drink this infusion 1-2 times a day.

• rosemary

Rosemary has anti-inflammatory properties, which is useful in treating upper respiratory infections. It contains active substances that help reduce coughs and runny noses, and boost immunity. It also has antibacterial properties and helps expel phlegm.

• marjoram

Marjoram reduces congestion and swelling of the nasal mucosa, which eases breathing with a cold. Skowerska adds that marjoram is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as calcium and iron, thereby aiding the body's recovery.

• thyme

According to Skowerska, thyme is the most effective herb for upper respiratory infections. It has antibacterial, antifungal, and antispasmodic properties, which help in clearing out phlegm and reducing coughs and runny noses.

• oregano

Oregano has anti-inflammatory properties and soothes sore throats. It also has antispasmodic and expectorant effects.

• cloves

Cloves have been used for centuries in folk medicine to treat cold symptoms. They contain eugenol, which has disinfectant, anesthetic, pain-relieving, and antibacterial properties.