Natural alternatives to OTC standbys

Instead of

Try this

Notes

Cough suppressant

Wild cherry (Prunus serotina), horehound (Marrubium vulgare), or slippery elm (Ulmus rubra)

Choose lozenges, syrup, or tea.

Decongestant

Aromatic oils: eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus), peppermint (Mentha piperita), or menthol

Combine a few drops of one of the oils with hot water in a bowl, cover your head with a towel, and breathe in the vapor.

Decongestant

Horseradish
(Armoracia rusticana)

Eat horseradish (the fresh root or prepared horseradish dressing) or apply a poultice of horseradish powder over the nose or sinuses.

Fever reducer

Elderflower
(Sambucus nigra)

Choose syrup, tincture, or tea.

Pain reliever

White willow
(Salix species) or meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmariaI)

Choose either tincture or tea.

Sore throat spray

Slippery elm
(Ulmus rubra)

Choose lozenges, tea, syrup, or tincture.

Sore throat spray

Bee propolis

Choose syrup or throat spray. All bee products have a slight risk for allergic reaction.