A cold always comes at the wrong time. The throat starts to tickle, the nose runs, the head feels heavy. Before you reach for the pharmacy, it's worth seeing what nature has to offer — because a number of herbs have proven effects on exactly the complaints that come with a cold.
No empty promises. No alternative nonsense. Just plants with an impressive track record — supported by both centuries of traditional use and modern scientific research. These are the five best herbs for colds, coughs and sore throats, and how to use them best.
1. Thyme - the best herb for cough and sore throat
Thyme is the most underrated herb in your kitchen cabinet. The active compound thymol has powerful antibacterial and antifungal effects, and at the same time relaxes the smooth muscles of the airways — loosening mucus and reducing cough reflexes.
A clinical study published in Arzneimittelforschung showed that a thyme preparation was as effective as the standard expectorant drug ambroxol for acute bronchitis