10 Best Home Remedies for Upper Respiratory Tract Infections

With the arrival of the winter months, it is possible to be protected from common diseases, especially upper respiratory tract infections, with a strong immune system. Using the natural preservative plants that stand out to increase the resistance of the body during illness periods can make the person recover faster. Plants that fight upper respiratory tract infections strengthen the immune system by supporting it.  Here are 10 home remedies to protect you from upper respiratory infections.

1. Peppermint (Mentha piperita)

Peppermint is diaphoretic, antipyretic, prevents the growth of some bacteria. When it is boiled and its steam is smelled, it clears the nasal congestion and cleans the respiratory tract with its refreshing and relaxing properties. Since the amount of acid in the stomach is low in patients with dyspepsia and gall bladder, its consumption with the addition of honey may be beneficial in terms of stimulating acid secretion. It needs to be prepared fresh because it can cause constipation when ingredients such as tannins pass into the water. Due to its feature of increasing stomach acid and bile secretions, peppermint can facilitate digestion and is good for the digestive system.

2. Sage (Salvia officinalis)

It is known that the volatile components contained in sage are beneficial in mouth and throat infections (such as pharyngitis, gingivitis). For this reason, it is recommended to add sage to boiled and rested water and use the prepared sage with a mouthwash after 10 minutes of brewing. Medicinal sage can cause liver damage due to its large amount and prolonged use due to its ketone components (thuyon) content. Its use in high amounts can trigger epilepsy crises due to its thuyon content. This risk is out of question since there is no tuyon in the Anatolian sage (Salvia triloba) type. Pregnant women should use sage with caution, and it also has a milk-reducing effect on breastfeeding mothers.

3. Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

Ginger, which is indispensable in kitchens with its pleasant scent and refreshing properties, is good for many ailments from colds to digestive problems when used with lemon. Ginger tea, prepared with lemon and honey, is effective in colds, sore throats and coughs. Since it stimulates uterine movements in pregnant women, it should not be used more than 1 gram daily. It stimulates the production of bile, and caution should be exercised in those with gallstones as it may cause the stone to fall into the canal and block it. In addition to the burning sensation in the stomach, bloating, nausea, excessive use may cause palpitations in individuals with heart and vascular diseases.

4. Linden (Tilia plathyphyllos, T. rubra)

It has an anti-inflammatory and pain relieving effect. While it has an anti-inflammatory and pain reliever effect with the flavonoids it contains, it softens the throat and prevents irritation with its mucilage content. In addition, it has been stated in many studies that some volatile components (linalool) have a soothing effect when brewed as tea by adding freshly boiled and rested hot water. With this feature, it is especially useful in relieving people with persistent coughs.

5. Elderberry (Sambucus nigra)

With the flavonoids and anthocyanins in its content, besides its antioxidant effect, it stimulates the immune system and increases the body’s resistance. The leaves of the elderberry plant are popularly used as a diaphoretic for colds. In some studies, elderberry black berries have been shown to be effective on the flu.

6. Mallow (Malva sylvestris)

Thanks to the mucilage it contains, it has a softening effect on digestive and respiratory system inflammation and irritation. It has antipyretic and analgesic properties. It is effective against hoarseness and cough. It can be used against pharyngitis and tonsillitis in the form of mouthwash.

7. Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus)

Eucalyptus leaf can be used as an aid in the treatment of respiratory diseases. It has antipyretic, pain reliever, expectorant and antibacterial properties. It increases attention by stimulating the nervous system. It is inconvenient for high blood pressure patients, pregnant women and breastfeeding women.

8. Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)

It is a rich source of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. With its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, it is good for many infectious diseases including respiratory tract infections. It is a natural cough soothing and pain reliever. It is beneficial for pregnant and breastfeeding women to consult their doctor before consuming.

9. Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum)

It is a plant with high antioxidant content. It is also frequently used as a spice such as thyme, mint and ginger. It provides protection against infection, has antiseptic, antibacterial and antifungal properties. It is good for bronchitis, colds and cough.

Cinnamon can increase blood pressure due to the essential oil it contains. Especially hypertensive patients should use it in a controlled manner.

10. Matricaria (Matricaria recutita)

It can be used for cold complaints as it relieves inflammation and strengthens the immune system. It is a good source of antioxidants. It has pain relieving, relaxing and sleeping properties.

Tea recipes that will be good for you in winter

Tea for colds and sore throats:

• 1 teaspoon of chamomile
• 1 teaspoon of sage
• 1 teaspoon of thyme
• 3-4 cloves

Preparation: All plants; it is placed in boiled, rested water at 80 degrees and consumed after brewing for 10-15 minutes.

Tea for pharyngitis and mild cough;

• 1 teaspoon of mallow
• 1 teaspoon of chamomile
• 1 teaspoon of eucalyptus leaves
• 2 grams of fresh ginger

Preparation: All plants; it is placed in boiled, rested water at 80 degrees and consumed after brewing for 10-15 minutes.