10 Best Herbal Capsules For Colds

Herbal capsules for colds are a natural remedy designed to alleviate symptoms associated with upper respiratory infections.

These capsules contain potent herbs, such as echinacea, goldenseal, and slippery elm, which work together to boost the immune system, reduce congestion, and soothe sore throats. For example, echinacea has been shown to increase the production of white blood cells, while goldenseal's antibacterial properties help combat infection.

By taking these herbal capsules regularly, individuals can experience reduced severity and duration of cold symptoms, allowing them to get back to their daily lives with improved energy and vitality.

The following article describes in detail the most important capsules for colds, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Ginkgo biloba

Maidenhair tree capsules helps with colds because they contain a concentrated extract of the leaves of Adiantum capillus-veneris, which has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to alleviate respiratory issues.

The capsule's active compounds, such as flavonoids and saponins, have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce congestion, soothe sore throats, and combat viral infections that cause colds.

By supporting the body's natural defenses, maidenhair tree capsules can provide relief from cold symptoms and promote a faster recovery.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba capsules that help with colds.

• Flavonoids: These compounds help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress associated with colds, promoting overall well-being and alleviating symptoms.
• Terpenoids: These terpenoids have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help alleviate cold symptoms such as congestion and cough by reducing inflammation in the airways.
• Glycosides: These compounds have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may help combat the oxidative stress and inflammation associated with colds, thus reducing the severity and duration of symptoms.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make capsules for colds.

• Leaves: These are the primary source of Ginkgo biloba extract, which is used to treat various health conditions, including colds.
• Seeds: Ginkgo seeds contain flavonoids and terpenoids, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to alleviate cold symptoms.
• Barks: The bark of the Ginkgo biloba tree is sometimes used to make supplements, containing compounds that may help to reduce congestion and promote a healthy respiratory system during colds.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for colds.

1. Harvest 1.5 to 2 pounds of ginkgo biloba leaves and flowers in the fall when they are fully ripe.
2. Dry the ginkgo biloba leaves and flowers in a warm dry place for 1 to 2 weeks.
3. Grind 500 grams of dried ginkgo biloba into a fine powder using a grinder or mortar.
4. Mix 250 grams of the powdered ginkgo biloba with 50 grams of a carrier powder like rice flour to create a blend.
5. Fill empty gelatin capsules with 0.5 to 1 gram of the ginkgo biloba powder blend using a capsule filling machine.

2. Echinacea purpurea

Purple coneflower capsules helps with colds because they contain the active compound echinacea, which has natural anti-inflammatory properties.

When taken at the onset of a cold, these capsules can help reduce the severity and duration of symptoms by boosting the immune system's response to the invading virus or bacteria.

Additionally, purple coneflower's antioxidant properties can also help combat oxidative stress caused by the infection, promoting overall recovery and well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea capsules that help with colds.

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help to boost the immune system by increasing the production of white blood cells, which fight off infections that cause colds.
• Caffeic acid: As an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, caffeic acid helps to reduce the severity and duration of cold symptoms by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
• Alkylphenol glycosides: These compounds have been shown to exhibit immunomodulatory effects, which help to regulate the immune response and reduce the risk of developing colds.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make capsules for colds.

• Roots: They contain a high concentration of bioactive compounds, making them a primary source of Echinacea's medicinal properties.
• Leaves: They are rich in flavonoids and other compounds that contribute to the plant's immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Flowers: They contain alkylamides and other compounds that help to stimulate the immune system and reduce the severity of cold and flu symptoms.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for colds.

1. Harvest 1/2 cup of dried echinacea purpurea flowers and roots from a clean and dry workspace.
2. Crush 2 tablespoons of the harvested plant material into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
3. Mix 1 teaspoon of the powder with 1/2 teaspoon of gelatin and 1/2 teaspoon of water to form a paste.
4. Use a capsule machine to fill empty gelatin capsules with the prepared paste, holding the machine steady.
5. Store the filled capsules in an airtight container in a cool dark place for up to 6 months.

3. Andrographis paniculata

King of Bitters capsules helps with colds because they stimulate the immune system, boosting its natural defense against invading pathogens.

The herbs in the formula, such as Gentian and Angelica, have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce congestion and soothe a sore throat. Additionally, the bitter compounds activate digestive enzymes, which can aid in the elimination of toxins and promote overall wellness.

This holistic approach helps to alleviate cold symptoms and supports the body's natural healing process.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Andrographis paniculata capsules that help with colds.

• Andrographolide: This diterpenoid lactone helps with colds by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, which can reduce the severity and duration of cold symptoms.
• Neochlorogenic acid: This phenolic compound has antioxidant properties that help protect the body from oxidative stress caused by cold viruses, potentially reducing the risk of complications.
• Andrographiside: This diterpenoid lactone has been shown to have antiviral properties, which can help inhibit the replication of cold viruses and reduce the severity of cold symptoms.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of king of bitters used to make capsules for colds.

• Leaves: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of andrographolide, a key compound responsible for the herb's medicinal properties.
• Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes of Andrographis paniculata contain a high amount of andrographolide, making them a popular alternative to leaves for producing capsules.
• Stems: The stems of the plant are also used, although to a lesser extent, as they still contain significant amounts of andrographolide, contributing to their medicinal value.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic king of bitters for colds.

1. Dry the andrographis paniculata leaves for 2 hours at 50 degrees celsius in a dehydrator to preserve their properties.
2. Grind 1:8 ratio of dried andrographis paniculata leaves to an inert filler like tapioca powder into a fine powder.
3. Weigh out 500 milligrams of the powdered andrographis paniculata mixture and add it to a capsule.
4. Fill 100 capsules with the powdered andrographis paniculata mixture within 30 minutes of preparation to maintain potency.
5. Label the capsules with the name andrographis paniculata and the dosage of 500 milligrams per capsule.

4. Ulmus rubra

Slippery elm capsules helps with colds because of its natural ability to soothe and calm irritated mucous membranes in the throat, nose, and chest.

The mucilage extract in slippery elm capsules forms a protective barrier that shields against inflammation, reduces congestion, and promotes effortless mucus clearance.

This relief from discomfort allows the body to focus on fighting off the infection, reducing the severity of symptoms and promoting faster recovery.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ulmus rubra capsules that help with colds.

• Triterpenoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce the severity of cold symptoms such as congestion and sore throats.
• Flavonoids: As an antiviral and anti-inflammatory agent, Quercetin may help combat viral infections and alleviate symptoms such as runny nose and cough.
• Phenolic acids: Gallic acid exhibits antimicrobial properties, which may help prevent the growth of pathogens that cause colds and other respiratory infections.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of slippery elm used to make capsules for colds.

• Barks: The bark of Ulmus rubra is used due to its expectorant properties, helping to relieve congestion and coughs associated with colds.
• Leaves: The leaves of Ulmus rubra are used for their antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to combat cold and flu viruses.
• Roots: The roots of Ulmus rubra are used for their antimicrobial properties, which can help to reduce the severity of cold and flu symptoms.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic slippery elm for colds.

1. Harvest 40 grams of dried ulmus rubra bark from a sustainable source with a 3-year-old tree.
2. Grind the bark into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 10 minutes.
3. Mix the powder with 20 grams of gelatin and 10 grams of glycerin in a bowl.
4. Fill empty gelatin capsules with 500 milligrams of the powder mixture using a powder scoop.
5. Store the filled capsules in an airtight container in a cool dark place for 6 months.

5. Althaea officinalis

Marshmallow capsules helps with colds because they contain mucilage, a natural thickening agent that soothes and protects irritated respiratory tissues.

When taken as a supplement, marshmallow root helps to lubricate the throat, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with colds.

Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties can help to alleviate congestion and coughing, making it easier to breathe and rest while your body fights off the infection.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis capsules that help with colds.

• Mucilages: Mucilages help soothe and calm the throat and respiratory tract, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with colds.
• Glucosides: Glucosides have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce congestion and ease respiratory issues, making it easier to breathe while dealing with a cold.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids possess antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help combat the underlying viral infection and alleviate symptoms associated with colds.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make capsules for colds.

• Roots: Rich in mucilages that help soothe sore throats and calm coughs.
• Leaves: Contain compounds that can help reduce inflammation and combat cold-related infections.
• Buds: Possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can aid in alleviating cold symptoms.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for colds.

1. Harvest althaea officinalis roots and clean them thoroughly to remove any debris or dirt.
2. Dry the cleaned althaea officinalis roots in a low-temperature oven at 50°c for 2 hours.
3. Grind the dried althaea officinalis roots into a fine powder using a coffee grinder.
4. Mix 1000 mg of the ground althaea officinalis powder with 500 mg of cellulose and 100 mg of magnesium stearate.
5. Fill a capsule machine with the powder mixture and seal the capsules according to manufacturer's instructions.

6. Sambucus nigra

Elder capsules helps with colds because they contain extracts of elderberry, a natural antiviral compound that targets the virus and prevents its replication.

The anthocyanins and flavonoids present in elderberry have potent anti-inflammatory properties, reducing congestion and alleviating symptoms such as sore throat, cough, and runny nose. Additionally, elder capsules support immune function by stimulating the production of cytokines, which help to fight off infection and promote recovery from a cold.

By supplementing with elder capsules, individuals can naturally boost their immune system and recover faster from a cold.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sambucus nigra capsules that help with colds.

• Vitamin c: Helps to boost the immune system and reduce the severity of cold symptoms by enhancing the production of white blood cells.
• Flavonoids: Exhibits anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that can help to reduce the severity of cold symptoms and combat viral infections.
• Sambunigrin: Demonstrates immunomodulatory and antiviral activities that can help to enhance the immune response and protect against viral infections, such as the common cold.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of elder used to make capsules for colds.

• Flowers: They contain bioflavonoids and antioxidants that help to boost the immune system and reduce inflammation associated with colds.
• Leaves: They are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties that can help to soothe a sore throat and reduce the severity of cold symptoms.
• Fruits (or more specifically, berries): They are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants that can help to boost the immune system and reduce the severity of cold symptoms.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic elder for colds.

1. Harvest 1-2 cups of fresh sambucus nigra flowers and leaves on a sunny morning after dew has evaporated.
2. Dry the harvested sambucus nigra flowers and leaves in a warm place at 30-40 degrees celsius for 2 hours.
3. Grind 1 tablespoon of dried sambucus nigra flowers and leaves into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
4. Mix 500 mg of the powdered sambucus nigra with 500 mg of a natural capsule filler to create a uniform blend.
5. Fill 100-200 vegetarian capsules with the sambucus nigra powder blend and seal them securely by hand.

7. Allium sativum

Garlic capsules helps with colds because they contain potent compounds that have natural antiviral and antibacterial properties.

The sulfur-rich extracts in these capsules work to boost the immune system, targeting the viruses and bacteria that cause colds and helping to alleviate symptoms such as congestion, coughing, and sore throats.

Additionally, garlic's antioxidant properties help to reduce inflammation and promote overall health, making it a natural and effective way to combat colds.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Allium sativum capsules that help with colds.

• Allicin: Allicin is a sulfur compound that helps break down mucus and reduce congestion, making it easier to breathe and relieving cold symptoms.
• Quercetin: Quercetin is a flavonoid antioxidant that helps reduce inflammation and fight off viral infections, such as the common cold, by inhibiting the replication of viruses.
• Diallyl disulfide: Diallyl disulfide is a sulfur compound that has antimicrobial properties, helping to kill bacteria and viruses that cause colds, and reducing the severity of symptoms.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of garlic used to make capsules for colds.

• Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes of garlic contain compounds with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate cold symptoms.
• Buds: Garlic buds are rich in antioxidants and have been traditionally used to boost the immune system and fight off infections associated with colds.
• Roots: The roots of garlic contain compounds that have antiviral properties, which help prevent the replication of viruses that cause colds.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic garlic for colds.

1. Harvest approximately 200g of fresh or dried allium sativum roots with a focus on quality and consistency.
2. Clean the harvested roots thoroughly under running water to remove dirt and debris.
3. Dry the cleaned roots in a dehydrator at 50°c for 24 hours or until they reach 8% moisture content.
4. Grind the dried roots into a fine powder using a high-speed grinder.
5. Fill vegetarian capsules with 250mg of the powdered root, approximately 100 capsules can be filled.

8. Zingiber officinale

Ginger capsules helps with colds because they contain natural compounds like gingerols and shogaols that have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

These compounds help to reduce congestion and soothe a sore throat, making it easier to breathe and talk.

Additionally, ginger has natural decongestant and expectorant properties that can help to loosen and clear mucus from the chest and lungs, allowing for faster recovery from a cold.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale capsules that help with colds.

• Gingerols: Gingerols, particularly 6-gingerol and 8-gingerol, have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce congestion and alleviate cold symptoms.
• Shogaols: Shogaols, particularly 6-shogaol, exhibit antimicrobial activity, which helps combat viral and bacterial infections that cause colds, and also reduce inflammation.
• Terpenes: Zingiberene, a sesquiterpene, has anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties that help relieve congestion, cough, and sore throat associated with colds.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make capsules for colds.

• Roots: Although roots are a part of the rhizome, some sources specifically mention roots being used; however, rhizomes are more commonly referenced.
• Buds: Ginger buds are sometimes used for their concentrated flavor and medicinal properties; however, rhizomes are the more commonly referenced part.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for colds.

1. Harvest a sufficient quantity of dried zingiber officinale root in a clean environment with sterile tools to prevent contamination.
2. Grind 1000 mg of the harvested root into a fine powder using a high-speed grinder to ensure uniformity.
3. Mix 500 mg of the powder with 500 mg of a natural filler material in a stainless steel container.
4. Fill empty vegetable capsules with the combined powder mixture using a capsule filling machine at a rate of 200 capsules per hour.
5. Label and store the filled capsules in a cool dry place for up to 2 years to preserve potency.

9. Mentha x piperita

Peppermint capsules helps with colds because they contain menthol, a natural decongestant that can ease sinus pressure and relieve congestion.

The cooling properties of peppermint also help to reduce inflammation in the throat and nasal passages, making it easier to breathe and swallow.

Additionally, peppermint has antimicrobial properties that can help combat the underlying infection, reducing the severity and duration of cold symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, and runny nose.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita capsules that help with colds.

• Menthol: Acts as a natural decongestant, helping to relieve nasal congestion and cough associated with colds by thinning mucus and promoting its expulsion.
• Rosmarinic acid: Exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the severity of cold symptoms such as sore throat, cough, and runny nose.
• Caryophyllene: Possesses expectorant properties, aiding in the relief of cough and congestion by loosening and removing mucus from the airways.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make capsules for colds.

• Leaves: The leaves of Mentha x piperita are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of menthol and menthone, which provide analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties to help alleviate cold symptoms.
• Stems: The stems of Mentha x piperita are also used due to their high menthol content, which helps to ease congestion and relieve coughs associated with colds.
• Buds: The buds of Mentha x piperita contain high amounts of menthol and menthone, making them a popular choice for cold relief capsules, as they help to reduce fever and alleviate respiratory issues.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for colds.

1. Harvest 1 cup of fresh mentha x piperita leaves and stems in the early morning when the essential oil is most concentrated.
2. Dry the harvested mentha x piperita in a single layer at room temperature for 2-3 days to reduce moisture content.
3. Crush 2 teaspoons of dried mentha x piperita into fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle for 30 seconds.
4. Mix the powder with 2 tablespoons of gelatin and 2 tablespoons of water in a saucepan and heat the mixture over low heat for 5 minutes.
5. Fill empty gelatin capsules with 1/2 teaspoon of the cooled mentha x piperita mixture and seal the capsules immediately to prevent moisture absorption.

10. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice capsules helps with colds because they contain glycyrrhizin, a compound that exhibits anti-inflammatory properties.

When taken as a supplement, it can help soothe a sore throat and reduce congestion by thinning mucus, making it easier to expel. Additionally, glycyrrhizin has been shown to boost the immune system's response to infection, helping the body fight off the cold virus more effectively.

As a natural remedy, licorice capsules offer a gentle yet effective way to alleviate cold symptoms and support overall well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra capsules that help with colds.

• Saponins: Saponins in Glycyrrhiza glabra capsules have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the severity of cold symptoms such as congestion and coughing.
• Glycyrrhizin: Glycyrrhizin, a triterpenoid saponin, has expectorant properties, helping to loosen and clear mucus from the respiratory tract, making it easier to breathe and cough up phlegm.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids, particularly isoflavones, in Glycyrrhiza glabra capsules have antioxidant properties, which can help protect the body from oxidative stress caused by cold viruses, supporting the immune system and reducing the severity of cold symptoms.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make capsules for colds.

• Roots: They are the primary source of glycyrrhizin, a compound that helps alleviate congestion and coughs associated with colds.
• Leaves: They contain flavonoids and other compounds that contribute to their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe cold-related symptoms.
• Roots: They also contain other compounds like licoricidin and licorisoflavan A, which have antimicrobial properties and can help combat cold-causing pathogens.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for colds.

1. Collect 100g of dried glycyrrhiza glabra root and sift it through a 20-mesh sieve to remove lumps and impurities.
2. Measure out 5g of the sifted root and blend it into a fine powder using a high-speed grinder for 2 minutes.
3. Mix the powdered root with 10g of vegetable cellulose powder and 5g of silicon dioxide in a clean bowl.
4. Use a capsule filling machine to fill 100 empty vegetable capsules with the powder mixture in 5 minutes.
5. Label and date the capsules and store them in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight for long-term preservation.

What is the best combination of herbal capsules to use for colds?

The best combination of herbal capsules that help with colds is Echinacea and Goldenseal.

Echinacea enhances the immune system, reducing the severity and duration of cold symptoms. Goldenseal has antimicrobial properties, which help combat bacterial and viral infections. Some people also add Zambu or Yarrow to reduce inflammation and soothe a sore throat.

However, consult a healthcare professional before taking any herbal supplements, as their interactions with medications or underlying health conditions can be unpredictable.