Introduction
Herbal remedies offer a natural way to address common ailments, from colds and flu to skin irritations and immune support. These recipes use simple ingredients and straightforward methods to create effective treatments. Whether you’re looking to boost your immune system or soothe a sore throat, these herbal remedies can be a valuable addition to your emergency preparedness kit.
Cold & Flu Remedies
When you feel a cold or flu coming on, herbal remedies can help ease symptoms and shorten the duration of your illness. Here are a few recipes to try:
Herbal Cold Care Capsules
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup dried echinacea root
- 1/8-1/4 cup grated ginger root
- 1/4 cup dried licorice root
- 1/4 cup dried elderflower OR elderberry syrup
Method
- Combine all ingredients in a bowl.
- Fill 00 gelatin capsules with the mixture.
- Store the capsules in an airtight container.
Dosage: Take 1 capsule every 2-3 hours when symptomatic.
Notes: Use within 6 months. Consult a physician before use if you are pregnant or have a chronic condition.
Honey & Cinnamon Cold Syrup
Ingredients
- 1 cup honey
- 1/4 cup ground cinnamon OR elderberries
Method
- Mix honey and cinnamon until smooth.
- Store in a glass jar.
Dosage: Take 1-2 teaspoons every 3-4 hours.
Notes: Not for children under 1 year.
Herbal Cold Care Tea
Ingredients
- Echinacea
- Ginger
- Licorice root
Method
- Steep the herbs in hot water for 10 minutes.
- Strain and drink.
Dosage: Drink 2-3 cups daily during cold symptoms.
Herbal Cold Care Tincture
Ingredients
- Echinacea
- Alcohol OR vodka
- Water
Method
- Soak herbs in alcohol and water for 4 weeks.
- Strain the mixture.
Dosage: Take 20-30 drops in water 2-3 times daily.
Notes: Store in dark glass bottles.
Skin Care
For skin irritations, bruises, and sprains, comfrey poultices and salves can provide relief. These remedies are easy to make and can be stored for future use.
Comfrey Poultice
Ingredients
- Fresh comfrey leaves OR fresh comfrey leaves, water, beeswax
Method
- Crush fresh comfrey leaves and apply directly to wounds or skin irritations.
- Alternatively, soak leaves in water, blend with beeswax, and apply as a poultice.
Usage: Apply for 10-15 minutes, 2-3 times daily.
Notes: Avoid prolonged use due to potential toxicity.
Comfrey Salve
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup beeswax
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup comfrey leaves OR dried comfrey leaves
Method
- Melt beeswax and olive oil in a double boiler.
- Add comfrey leaves and stir until well combined.
- Strain the mixture and pour into jars.
Usage: Apply to bruises or skin irritations 1-2 times daily.
Immune Support
Boosting your immune system is crucial for preventing illness and recovering from infections. These herbal remedies can help support your body’s natural defenses.
Ginger Tea
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 cup water
Method
- Simmer ginger in water for 10 minutes.
- Strain the tea.
Dosage: Drink warm 2-3 times daily.
Notes: Add honey for flavor.
Herbal Cold Care Ointment
Ingredients
- Eucalyptus oil
- Beeswax
- Coconut oil
Method
- Mix eucalyptus oil with melted beeswax and coconut oil.
- Pour the mixture into jars and let it cool.
Dosage: Apply to chest or back for congestion relief.
Herbal Cold Care Oil
Ingredients
- Peppermint oil
- Eucalyptus oil
- Carrier oil
Method
- Blend peppermint and eucalyptus oils with a carrier oil.
- Store the mixture in dark bottles.
Dosage: Apply to temples or chest for sinus relief.
- Intermediate Herbal Course Overview and Practical Applications with Resources 7
- Herbal Medicine Kit: External Use Preparations and Recipes 5
- Plantain: Edible and Medicinal Uses for Survival 5
- Harvesting, Preserving, and Medicinal Use of Dandelion Roots 5
- DIY Juniper Berry Ointment for Joint and Muscle Pain Relief 4