18 DIY Natural Cold and Flu Remedies

Do you have that tickle starting in your throat or is someone in your house (or workplace) sick and you want to keep from getting it? These Natural Cold and Flu Remedies will definitely help you avoid getting sick or get you on the road to feeling better fast!

Being sick is no fun, and I for sure don't want my kids or me to suffer any longer than necessary when they get sick.

But since I had way too many antibiotics in my childhood, and it caused many issues for me including gut health problems, I am all about finding natural remedies so we can avoid the prescription drugs and OTC meds as much as possible.

Nothing against medication when it's needed, but why not try to help your immune system fight things and get stronger if that's an option.

Over the years I've found that it's a good idea to try different remedies and see what works for you and your family.  Plus, there might be some that just aren't palatable for you or your kiddos, so you'll need to be armed with other options too.

Benefits of Homemade Natural Remedies

Making your own natural remedies is very satisfying. First of all, you have total control over the ingredients so you can keep everything natural and avoid ingredients that you might have an allergy or intolerance too.

It also saves money since not only are the DIY versions less expensive than the store-bought, but you can use so many of these ingredients for different applications, so you'll find yourself shopping less too.

Natural Cold and Flu Remedies

I'm sure you'll find several of these supports that will work great for you the next time you or your loved ones are ill.

Note that most have low carb options so they can be incorporated into a low carb / keto lifestyle too.

Elderberry Jam

Spread this Immune Boosting Jam on your favorite gluten-free bread or put a dollop on hot cereal or eat off of a spoon.

DIY Antibacterial / Antiviral Essential Oils Blend

This DIY "Thieves"Essential Oil Blend has many applications but one of my favorites is to fight off an illness.

Elderberry Syrup

We use this Elderberry Syrup every time we get a "bug" and it really seems to help. Bonus--you can make it low-carb too!

Echinacea Tincture

I have been meaning to make tinctures for a long time now - this Echinacea Tincture would be a great one to get started on at this time of year.

Immune Boosting Tea

If you are feeling under the weather, make a cup (or 2) of this Immune Boosting Tea.

Flu Fighting Gummy Bears

Wouldn't your kiddos love the comfort of these Flu-fighting Gummies when they're feeling down?
And you'll love knowing that they're good for them! Use a low-carb sweetener if desired.

Herbal Steam

This sinus steam will help open up stuffy noses quickly!

Homemade Cough and Cold Syrup

I would much rather use this natural cough syrup than the store-bought varieties. Loaded with healthful goodness.  Again, use a low-carb sweetener if desired.

Cold and Flu Zapper

Zap away your cold and flu bugs with this zapper concoction. It's really powerful!

Cheapest and Easiest Natural Ear Infection Supports

Lots of ideas in this post for helping with ear infections and ear aches.

Homemade Chest Rub

We've used this DIY Vapor Rub for years in our home and love that it's all natural without any of the chemical additives.

Sore Throat Support

This Sore Throat Support remedy is loaded with soothing and nourishing ingredients - sure to help chase the ickies away.

DIY Saline Spray

This DIY Saline has helped us so much throughout the years. Definitely something you want in your healthy living toolbox.

Homemade Decongestant

One look at the ingredients in this DIY Decongestant and I can feel my sinuses opening already.

Thymus Thumping

Have you ever heard of Thymus Thumping for helping to boost your immune system? So interesting!

Homemade Cough Drops

 I'd have to hide these DIY Cough Drops from my kids for sure, but they look great.
When I have a cough I prefer to suck on a sugar-free version like these so I'd try to make these with a low carb sweetener to keep your teeth from feeling icky in the morning.

Elderberry Popsicles

Kids will LOVE these Elderberry Popsicles to boost their immune system and they're a great way to keep them hydrated too!

Things Our Family Uses to Fight "Bugs"

Some of the things my family does when we're coming down with something are:

• Apple Cider Vinegar: take 2 tablespoons of Apple Cider Vinegar (with the mother), diluted in water with some stevia. Make SURE to dilute it--otherwise it's just way too strong! Some apple cider vinegars need to be diluted more than others. You can read more about that in this post about the Katy Perry and Bragg controversy.
• Thymus Thumping: Your thymus is behind your breastbone just under your thyroid and it makes white blood cells. Some say that tapping the bone that covers the thymus helps stimulate it to fight illness.
• Probiotics: double up on probiotics. If you're dealing with histamine intolerance, you might want to select low-histamine probiotics.
• Fluids, fluids, fluids! This Adrenal Cocktail is full of all kinds of nutritious benefits to support your whole body, including your immune system.
• Bone Broth: yes, Grandma was right. In fact, chicken broth has been proven to fight inflammation, which contributes to illnesses. (source)

I hope that these help you get through any flu and cold bugs that come into your home and make the ride a bit smoother.

What's your favorite natural support for colds and flus?