Natural Winter Remedies: Eucalyptus

With antibacterial and expectorant properties, eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus) can loosen congestion and help you breathe easier.

How to use: Pour near-boiling water into a pot. Add a few drops of eucalyptus essential oil, turn off heat, and drape a towel over your head and the pot. Breathe for five minutes. Safety note: Do not use essential oils internally.

Natural Winter Remedies: Astragalus

Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus), which has been used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine, may help to strengthen the body against illness when used over time.

How to use: Take astragalus in tincture or capsule form throughout the cold and flu season. You can also incorporate dried astragalus slices into soups or rice; remove the astragalus before serving.

Natural Winter Remedies: Thyme

Loaded with antibacterial compounds, fresh or dried thyme (Thymus vulgaris) is a cold-season powerhouse.

How to use: Use fresh or dried thyme in stews and soups. To make a steam, pour near-boiling water into a pot. Add a pinch of fresh or dried thyme, turn off heat, and create a tent by draping a towel over your head and the pot. Breathe in steam for five minutes.

Natural Winter Remedies: Slippery elm

A sore-throat soother extraordinaire, slippery elm (Ulmus rubra) products are high in "mucilage," a substance that coats the throat and helps relieve coughs.

How to use: Look for slippery elm lozenges and follow package directions. To make a tea, simmer 1 tablespoon dried slippery elm bark per cup of water; strain and drink.

Natural Winter Remedies: Elderflower

The flower form of the elder plant (Sambucus nigra) can induce sweating, which may help reduce fever.

How to use: Look for elder in cold formulas. To make a tea, pour boiling water over a teaspoon of dried elderflower. Steep 10 to 15 minutes, then strain. Drink up to three cups per day. Or make a tea that combines elder, echinacea, and a pinch of peppermint.

Natural Winter Remedies: Ginger

A cup of tea made with ginger (Zingiber officinale) can help ease congestion and warm the body, which helps your system fight infection. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it a good sore-throat remedy, too.

How to use: Simmer fresh or dried ginger for 20 minutes; strain and add a touch of honey and a squeeze of lemon, if desired. Incorporate ginger liberally into stir-fries and soups.