Wisdom from the Past: Ancient Remedies and Ideas for Coughs and Colds

As autumn ushers in cooler temperatures, many of us prepare for the inevitable sniffles and sore throats that come with it. Coughs and colds have been a part of human existence for millennia, and while modern medicine has certainly made its mark, ancient remedies for these seasonal ailments remain popular due to their natural efficacy and minimal side effects. Many of these age-old remedies are still in use today, with variations available in products we find on wellbeing platforms such as Healf.

In this article, we’ll explore the ancient wisdom behind remedies for coughs and colds and offer insights into how you can incorporate these ideas into your routine using products that combine the best of tradition and modern science

One of the oldest recorded remedies for coughs and colds comes from the ancient Egyptians, who used honey as both a sweetener and a medicine. Honey has long been recognised for its soothing and antibacterial properties. For a sore throat or cough, the Egyptians would often mix honey with herbs like thyme or liquorice root , both known for their ability to ease respiratory discomfort.

Modern Equivalent:

Honey remains a common remedy for sore throats, and today, we know it’s more than just an old wives' tale. Products like Beekepers Naturals Cough Syrup combine the antimicrobial benefits of manuka honey with the respiratory-relief properties of olive leaf, providing a modern take on this ancient Egyptian practice. You can add this syrup to tea or take it directly to help soothe a sore throat and reduce coughing.

Ayurveda, a 5,000-year-old healing system from India, has much to offer when it comes to natural remedies for coughs and colds. Central to Ayurvedic treatments are turmeric and ginger , both of which have potent anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. Turmeric, with its active compound curcumin , has been used to treat sore throats, coughs, and colds for centuries due to its ability to reduce inflammation and support immune function. Ginger, meanwhile, helps to break up mucus and improve circulation, making it easier to recover from a cold.

Ayurvedic practitioners would often recommend drinking golden milk , a warm beverage made from turmeric, ginger, and milk (traditionally cow’s milk or plant-based alternatives). This comforting drink not only soothes a sore throat but also helps fight off infection by boosting the immune system.

Modern Equivalent:

For a simple and effective way to get the benefits of both turmeric and ginger. A golden mylk latter blend offers a powerful blend of these ingredients. Add it to hot milk with a dash of Wunder Workshop Turmeric Organic Honey support your body’s natural defences and alleviate cold symptoms.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the concept of Qi , or life force, plays a crucial role in maintaining health. When Qi becomes stagnant or depleted, colds and coughs can follow. To restore balance, TCM recommends consuming hot liquids and herbal teas to “warm the body” and enhance circulation. Popular herbs in TCM for treating colds include liquorice root , ginger , and peppermint , which help to break up mucus, soothe a sore throat, and boost immunity.

Elderberries are also a common TCM remedy, prized for their antiviral properties and ability to support lung health. Elderberry syrup has been used for centuries in both China and the West to ward off colds and respiratory infections.

Modern Equivalent:

A soothing cup of tea is often the best thing for a cold, not only does it help reduce cold symptoms, but it also promotes overall wellbeing by supporting the immune system and improving respiratory function. 

Ancient Greek physicians like Hippocrates , often considered the father of modern medicine, recognised the importance of clearing the airways to treat coughs and colds. They would use steam inhalation as a method to break up mucus and congestion in the lungs. Eucalyptus leaves were often added to hot water, as the oils released by the leaves had powerful antiviral and antimicrobial properties.

Modern Equivalent:

Steam inhalation is still widely recommended for colds and coughs today. You can recreate this ancient Greek remedy by adding a few drops of Eucalyptus Essential Oil to a bowl of steaming water. Lean over the bowl with a towel over your head and inhale deeply for several minutes. This simple practice helps to clear congestion and ease breathing, making it a fantastic home remedy for colds and coughs.

Garlic and onion have long been revered in European folk medicine for their powerful antimicrobial and antiviral properties. Both of these pungent vegetables contain compounds like allicin , which help fight off infections and boost the immune system. During the Middle Ages, garlic was often hung in homes to ward off illness, and onion poultices were applied to the chest to ease coughs.

Modern Equivalent:

While eating raw garlic or onion might be a little intense for modern tastes, you can still enjoy their benefits in a more palatable form through supplementation of the individual extract. Allicidin capsules provide a concentrated dose of these powerful immune-boosting ingredients. Taking these capsules regularly during cold season can help you stave off infections and recover more quickly.

While modern medicine offers effective treatments for colds and coughs, there’s a growing appreciation for ancient remedies that have been used for thousands of years. Many of these treatments rely on natural ingredients with minimal side effects and have stood the test of time due to their efficacy. By combining ancient wisdom with modern scientific research, we can create powerful, natural remedies to help us through cold and flu season.

Platforms like Healf open opportunity to a wide array of products that incorporate the best of these ancient traditions, making it easier than ever to integrate them into your daily wellness routine. Whether it’s a soothing honey and thyme syrup, a ginger and turmeric elixir, or an immune-boosting tea, these natural solutions provide a comforting and effective way to treat colds and coughs – just as our ancestors did.