Cold
When it gets cold outside, many people return to tried-and-tested home remedies – warm tea, ginger and herbs from grandma’s cupboard. In this category we have gathered herbs for colds that folk medicine has traditionally used to warm the body and support it through the cold season.
The main products here are the Ginger tincture made from ginger root – warming and aromatic, Geranium made from wild geranium root, a well-known Bulgarian herb, and Hormonal Balance, which is based on yarrow. Yarrow is traditionally used to support the immune system during the colder months.
If you prefer a cup of hot tea, choose from the dried herbs: ginger root, wild geranium root and yarrow. An infusion of ginger, honey and lemon is a classic in many Bulgarian homes. A tincture diluted in a glass of warm (not hot) water is a quick alternative when you are on the go.
Rest, warm fluids and varied food remain the foundation of looking after yourself – herbs only complement them. If you have a high temperature or long-lasting symptoms, see a doctor. Pregnant and breastfeeding women and people on medication should consult a professional before use.
FAQ
The instructions call for 20 drops (about 1 ml) dissolved in a glass of water, 3 times a day. You can use warm water or slightly cooled tea, but avoid boiling water. That way the tincture stays pleasant to drink and fits easily into your morning or evening routine.
Both forms have their place. Dried ginger or wild geranium make a warm drink that many people reach for when they have a cold. A tincture is easier to dose and to carry with you. Many people combine the two – tea in the evening and a tincture during the day.
The tinctures contain alcohol and are not intended for children without consulting a doctor. When a child has a cold, the best approach is to see a paediatrician, who can decide whether a herbal drink is appropriate for their age and which one.