Holistic Healing: Manage Cold and Flu the Natural Way

As parents, we’re used to easing our little ones through a cold or flu, but what do you do when you’re the one who’s sick? Powering through your days and to-do list as usual can become a challenge—and without strong supports in place, this can even delay you from getting better. Thankfully, there are convenient and natural remedies that can help ease symptoms and give the immune system a boost, speeding up your recovery so you can get back to feeling your best.

Family-Friendly Holistic Remedies

Following the usual “rest and recover” advice can be difficult for many parents. After all, kids don’t stop needing attention, meals, or help with homework. When taking a day off or hitting the snooze button isn’t in the cards, prioritising other holistic solutions can make a world of difference.

Optimise Your Sleep Environment

A good night’s rest is a powerful tool when we’re sick, as this is when the body enters self-repair mode and the immune system releases protective cytokines to fight off infections and inflammation. Unfortunately, symptoms like a cough or stuffy nose often worsen at night, and this can lead to hours of restless tossing and turning.

To prime your body for a better night’s rest, consider using blackout curtains, keeping the room slightly cool, and running a humidifier to soothe irritated sinuses and prevent dry air from exacerbating symptoms. Adding essential oils like eucalyptus or lavender–which are known to help with inflammation and congestion–to your humidifier or pillow can also promote relaxation and easier breathing.

Hydrate Smart

Water is always vital, but especially so when you’re feverish and more prone to dehydration. Beverages infused with electrolytes can help bring up your hydration levels and regulate your body temperature, while sipping on warm herbal teas like chamomile, ginger, or peppermint will ease sore throats, calm inflammation, and improve mucous flow. “Teatime” is something you can also get the kiddos in on (and it’s a great alternative to sugar-laden juice). Consider building a collection of appealing blends to choose from, and break out your favourite mugs to turn this sick-day remedy into an enjoyable routine for all.

Stick to Warming and Gut-Friendly Foods

Nourish your body with foods that are known to support the immune system and soothe symptoms. Think nutrient-dense porridges, and soups or stews enriched with healing ingredients like bone broth, turmeric, or stomach-settling ginger.

The more kid-friendly flavours, the better for keeping extra meal prep to a minimum–but when in doubt, you can’t go wrong with a classic noodle soup and crackers combo! Make up a big batch to work through over several days, or if you go the canned route, look for organic options with a hefty dose of veggies. Fermented options like miso can further fortify your gut, and your immune health by extension. 

Supplement with Science-Backed Herbs 

Herbs rooted in traditional medicine practices can be powerful and reliable tools for both symptom relief and overall immune support. Here are a few standout ingredients with proven efficacy:

Andrographis paniculata

This potent herb is celebrated for its antibacterial and immune-boosting properties. Research has shown that Andrographis can reduce the severity and duration of upper respiratory tract infections, making it a trusted ally during cold and flu season. 

In fact, one study found that supplementing with this herb was associated with a 14 percent increase in the immune system’s production of virus-fighting white blood cells. 

Tinospora cordifolia

Commonly relied upon in Ayurvedic medicine, Tinospora is a natural immunomodulator. It works to reduce congestion, sneezing, and inflammation, helping your body fight off infections more effectively while easing uncomfortable symptoms. 

South African Geranium (Pelargonium sidoides)

Known for its antibacterial properties, South African Geranium is particularly effective in supporting respiratory health. It stimulates the immune system and helps to reduce symptoms associated with upper respiratory infections, such as sore throat, cough, and congestion.

When life is busy (and when isn’t it?), you can tap into the combined benefits of healing herbs with a convenient daily supplement at the first sign of a cold or flu. 

This award-winning Cold & Flu formula combines the immune-boosting benefits of Andrographis, Tinospora, and South African Geranium along with essential nutrients like zinc and copper. Together, these ingredients minimize the impact of upper respiratory tract infections, promote better immunity, and even aid in vital connective tissue repair. 

Andrographis is also powered by a high-quality standardized extract of this potent herb to reduce the symptoms of the common cold and upper respiratory infections. Both Cold & Flu and Andrographis come in an easy-to-take capsule and are non-GMO, vegan, gluten-, and dairy-free. 

As parents, taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your little ones—especially during cold and flu season. With a healing combination of rest, nourishment, and hassle-free natural remedies at your fingertips, you can recover faster and get back to what matters most.

At AOR, our vision is to transform health through natural, personalized, and therapeutic care. We seek to catalyze change and challenge conventions through continuous innovation. For twenty-eight years, it has been our mission to transform scientific research into evidence-based, natural health products that empower people to lead their best lives.