Even though having a cold is usually an excuse to stay in bed, watch movies, and slurp chicken soup, it’s never fun to feel run down. Rather than take traditional syrups and other remedies, homeopathic medicine offers a “like cures like” approach that believes natural substances (such as arnica montana, phosphorus, and gelsemium sempervirens) can help trigger the body’s natural healing response.

Natural Cold Remedies

You can end up with a cold anytime, but we’re especially susceptible once the temperatures drop. Here are some remedies to keep in your natural medicine cabinet, just in case you start feeling under the weather.

• Elderberry syrup: Elderberry has been used as a natural cold remedy for generations thanks to its potential antiviral effects. In one study of people with flu-like symptoms, those who took elderberry syrup enjoyed improved symptoms several days earlier than those who took the placebo.


• Zinc: In a study of 50 people who supplemented with zinc for a year, researchers found that those who took the placebo were 50 percent more likely to catch a cold.


• Oregano oil: Extracted through steam distillation, oregano oil is often used medicinally for itsantimicrobial properties.


• Propolis spray: To soothe a sore throat, try propolis spray. Propolis is made by honeybees and is known for a compound called pinocembrin, a flavonoid that acts as an antifungal.

Top Homeopathic Cold and Flu Brands

Boiron and Ollois are two of the best homeopathic cold and flu brands to trust with your health.

Boiron

The modern iteration of Boiron as we know it today dates back to the 1980s, but the brand really got its start in the 1930s when twin brothers and pharmacists Jean and Henri Boiron began prescribing arnica to their patients. Arnica montana is this wellness brand’s signature ingredient, and is sustainably sourced in France’s Vosges mountains.

Ollois

Guillaume Lois founded Ollois because he believes that the body, mind, and spirit are all connected and homeopathy taps into this interdependence. The brand formulates convenient, lactose-free homeopathic pellets for a variety of health concerns, and became Certified Organic in 2019.

Best Homeopathic Cold and Flu Remedies

If you’re looking for homeopathic remedies for cold and flu symptoms, try these products our members love.

Boiron Oscillococcinum® Flu Remedy

Formulated to help temporarily relieve flu-like symptoms (like body aches and chills), Boiron’s remedy may help you feel better sooner. Christine from Oregon says she always keeps this on hand. “It really works well to ease the symptoms and duration of flu.”

Ollois Histaminum Hydrochloric: Allergic Reactions

Traditionally used for allergic reactions, Histaminum Hydrochloric is a homeopathic approach for allergy relief. Each container contains 80 pellets, and Kelsey from California shares they’ve been a smart choice for her family. “This has saved my kiddos so many times. My oldest has the most random allergy flare ups and these have erased his symptoms within an hour of taking them.”

Tips for Recovering From a Cold

Our blog has tips for cold and flu remedies such as favorite supplements, nourishing recipes, and more.

Should You Supplement With Zinc?

The benefits of zinc may include reduced cold symptoms, a boosted mood, and even more radiant skin. Check out this post featuring all the ways this micronutrient may support you.

What to Put in a Natural Medicine Cabinet

Stocking a natural medicine cabinet doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some of Thrive Market’s most popular picks, and why our staffers love them.

Homemade Bone Broth Recipe

Pull out your slow cooker because it can easily make a batch of good-for-you bone broth. Keep it in the freezer to use for soups, risottos, and other favorite dishes, or sip it on its own if you have the sniffles.