10 Best Herbal Creams For Colds

Herbal creams for colds are topical ointments infused with natural herbs and essential oils that help alleviate cold and flu symptoms.

These creams, often containing ingredients like eucalyptus, peppermint, and menthol, ease congestion, reduce fever, and soothe sore throats.

Examples include Echinacea cream and Menthol cream, which improve lives by providing quick relief from cold symptoms, allowing individuals to recover faster and resume daily activities.

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

1. Echinacea purpurea

Echinacea purpurea, also known as purple coneflower, creams helps with colds because it contains unique compounds that stimulate the immune system.

These active ingredients, including alkylamides and caffeic acid derivatives, boost the body's natural defenses, making it more resilient to viral infections. By reducing inflammation and promoting overall well-being, Echinacea purpurea creams can alleviate cold symptoms, such as congestion, sore throats, and fatigue.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries to support immune function and relieve cold-related discomfort.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help alleviate cold symptoms by acting as anti-inflammatory agents, reducing the severity of respiratory infections and promoting overall well-being.
• Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds exhibit strong antioxidant properties, which help protect the body from oxidative stress caused by viral infections, thus reducing the risk and severity of colds.
• Alkylamides: These compounds have immunomodulatory effects, enhancing the body's natural immune response to fight off invading pathogens and reduce the duration and severity of cold symptoms.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: They are used in creams for colds because they contain high concentrations of active compounds, such as alkylamides and phenolic acids, which have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
• Flowers: They are used in creams for colds because they are rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that can help alleviate cold symptoms.
• Leaves: They are used in creams for colds because they contain compounds like caffeic acid and chicoric acid, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help reduce cold symptoms.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 cup of fresh echinacea purpurea flowers and leaves in the early morning after the dew has evaporated.
2. Dry the harvested echinacea flowers and leaves in a low-temperature oven at 150°f for 2 hours.
3. Steep 2 tablespoons of dried echinacea flowers and leaves in 2 cups of boiling water for 5 minutes.
4. Mix 1 tablespoon of beeswax with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil and 2 tablespoons of the echinacea infusion.
5. Stir the mixture constantly as it cools and thickens over a 30-minute period.

2. Gaultheria procumbens

Gaultheria procumbens, also known as wintergreen, creams helps with colds because it contains methyl salicylate, a natural pain reliever similar to aspirin.

This compound helps to reduce inflammation and alleviate congestion, making it easier to breathe and relax. Additionally, Gaultheria procumbens has antimicrobial properties, which can help to combat the underlying infection that causes colds.

By soothing and calming the body, these creams can provide relief from cold symptoms, allowing for a more comfortable recovery.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Gaultheria procumbens creams that help with colds.

• Iridoids: Iridoids, particularly peduncularidoid, found in Gaultheria procumbens, have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, which can help alleviate cold symptoms such as congestion and fever.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, including gallic acid and ellagic acid, present in the herb, exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, which can help combat oxidative stress and reduce the severity of cold symptoms like cough and sore throat.
• Oleanolic acid: Oleanolic acid, a triterpenoid saponin found in Gaultheria procumbens, has been reported to possess anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, which can help alleviate cold symptoms such as fever, cough, and fatigue.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of wintergreen used to make creams for colds.

• Leaves: They contain salicin, a compound similar to aspirin, which helps to reduce fever and relieve pain associated with colds.
• Roots: They serve as the primary source of wintergreen oil, which is used in creams to provide a cooling sensation and relieve congestion.
• Buds: They contain a high concentration of wintergreen oil, which is extracted and used in creams to help soothe sore throats and coughs.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1/4 cup of fresh gaultheria procumbens leaves and flowers on a sunny morning when dew is still present.
2. Steep 2 tablespoons of the fresh plant material in 4 ounces of carrier oil like jojoba or sweet almond oil for 2-4 weeks.
3. Strain the oil mixture through cheesecloth into a clean container discarding the solids.
4. Mix 2 tablespoons of the infused oil with 2 tablespoons of beeswax and 2 tablespoons of shea butter in a double boiler.
5. Whip the cooled mixture with an electric mixer until it becomes light and fluffy then transfer to a clean container.

3. Melissa officinalis

Melissa officinalis, also known as lemon balm, creams helps with colds because it contains rosmarinic acid, a natural compound with potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

When applied topically, these properties help to soothe and calm the skin, reducing the severity of cold symptoms such as sore throats and fever. Additionally, the calming effects of lemon balm can help to reduce stress and promote restful sleep, which is essential for the body to recover from illness.

This natural remedy can provide relief and support during the cold and flu season.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis creams that help with colds.

• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has potent antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate cold symptoms by reducing viral replication and inflammation in the body.
• Luteolin: As a flavonoid with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, luteolin can help combat colds by reducing oxidative stress, modulating the immune response, and inhibiting the replication of viral pathogens.
• Volatile oils: These terpenes possess antimicrobial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce the severity and duration of colds by inhibiting the growth of pathogens and alleviating associated inflammation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make creams for colds.

• Leaves: The leaves of Melissa officinalis are the most commonly used part in creams for colds, as they contain high concentrations of essential oils with decongestant and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Flowers: Melissa officinalis flowers are also used due to their high content of melissic acid, which helps to soothe and calm respiratory issues associated with colds.
• Leaves (again): The leaves of Melissa officinalis are often used in combination with other ingredients to create creams that not only relieve cold symptoms but also offer a calming effect to the skin.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest melissa leaves in late morning when the dew is evaporated but the heat has not become too strong.
2. Steam distill the melissa leaves to extract their essential oil and prepare the herbal extract.
3. Mix the herbal extract with a base ingredient such as beeswax and coconut oil to create a cream base.
4. Heat the cream base in a double boiler or a heat-resistant bowl over a pot of simmering water.
5. Cool the cream base and whip it to create a smooth and consistent texture before filling the containers.

4. Thymus vulgaris

Thymus vulgaris, also known as thyme, creams helps with colds because of its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Thyme contains compounds like carvacrol and thymol, which have been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria and viruses that cause respiratory infections. When applied topically as a cream, thyme can help reduce congestion, soothe a sore throat, and alleviate coughs, making it a natural and effective remedy for cold and flu symptoms.

Its invigorating scent also promotes relaxation and eases sinus pressure.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus vulgaris creams that help with colds.

• Thymol: Thymol has antimicrobial properties that help combat the underlying bacterial infections that often accompany colds, reducing symptoms and the duration of illness.
• Carvacrol: Carvacrol's decongestant and expectorant properties help relieve congestion and coughs associated with colds, making it easier to breathe and recover.
• Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties help alleviate cold symptoms by reducing inflammation and protecting the body from oxidative stress caused by the infection.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make creams for colds.

• Leaves: Thymus vulgaris leaves are used to make creams for colds because they are rich in thymol, a natural antiseptic and decongestant.
• Flowers: Thymus vulgaris flowers are used to make creams for colds because they contain thymol and other volatile oils that have antimicrobial properties.
• Buds: Thymus vulgaris buds are used to make creams for colds because they contain high amounts of thymol and other essential oils that help to relieve congestion and coughs.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 20-30 grams of dried thymus vulgaris leaves in late summer when the plant is in full bloom.
2. Combine the dried herb with 100ml of distilled water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the liquid has reduced to 50ml.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth and discard the solids then add 20 grams of beeswax.
5. Heat the mixture gently until the beeswax has melted and then pour into a glass jar to cool.

5. Eupatorium perfoliatum

Eupatorium perfoliatum, also known as joe pye weed, creams helps with colds because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties.

The herb contains flavonoids and phenolic acids that have been traditionally used to alleviate cold and flu symptoms, such as congestion and coughs. The creams may help to reduce swelling and ease the discomfort associated with a cold, allowing the body to recover more efficiently.

Its soothing and calming effects also help to promote a restful night's sleep, which is essential for the body's immune system to fight off the infection.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Eupatorium perfoliatum creams that help with colds.

• Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in Eupatorium perfoliatum creams may help with colds by exhibiting antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, reducing the severity of symptoms.
• Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids, particularly ursolic acid, found in Eupatorium perfoliatum may help alleviate cold symptoms by possessing anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
• Saponins: Saponins present in Eupatorium perfoliatum creams may help with colds by exhibiting expectorant properties, making it easier to cough up mucus and reduce congestion.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of joe pye weed used to make creams for colds.

• Leaves: Their high concentration of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, contributes to their decongestant and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Roots: The roots of Eupatorium perfoliatum contain sesquiterpene lactones and other compounds that help in relieving congestion and reduce the severity of cold symptoms.
• Stems: The stems of the plant are rich in iridoid glycosides, which possess anti-inflammatory and decongestant properties, making them useful in cold remedies.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic joe pye weed for colds.

1. Harvest eupatorium perfoliatum flowers and leaves in the morning after the dew has evaporated to prevent contamination.
2. Dry the harvested plant material in a warm place with good air circulation for 1-2 weeks to remove moisture.
3. Combine 2 ounces of dried eupatorium perfoliatum with 4 ounces of carrier oil such as coconut oil in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a double boiler for 2-3 hours at 100-150 degrees fahrenheit to release the active compounds.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container and store in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.

6. Solidago virgaurea

Solidago virgaurea, also known as goldenrod, creams helps with colds because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties.

The plant's flavonoids and phenolic acids work together to reduce congestion, alleviate sore throats, and ease sinus pressure. Goldenrod's antimicrobial properties also help combat viral infections, while its expectorant properties promote the removal of mucus, allowing for easier breathing and a faster recovery from cold symptoms.

This natural remedy provides relief and promotes overall well-being during cold and flu season.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Solidago virgaurea creams that help with colds.

• Asteraceae saponins: These saponins have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate cold symptoms such as congestion and sore throats.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids have antimicrobial and antiviral properties, which can help combat the underlying infection that causes colds and reduce the severity of symptoms.
• Flavonoids: Quercetin has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, which can help reduce the severity of cold symptoms such as congestion, coughing, and sore throats.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of goldenrod used to make creams for colds.

• Leaves: Used for their anti-inflammatory properties to reduce swelling and ease congestion.
• Stems: Utilized for their antimicrobial properties to combat infections and soothe sore throats.
• Flowers: Employed for their expectorant properties to help clear mucus and ease coughs.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 100 grams of dried solidago virgaurea flowers and leaves on a sunny day for medicinal use.
2. Steep the herb in 200ml of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil for 2 weeks.
3. Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth into a clean bowl to separate the solids.
4. Mix 20 grams of beeswax and 10 grams of shea butter with 100ml of the infused oil.
5. Stir the mixture over low heat until the beeswax melts and the mixture thickens into a smooth cream.

7. Lavandula angustifolia

Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, creams helps with colds because of its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.

The active compounds in lavender, such as linalool and linalyl acetate, work to soothe sore throats and calm coughs. Additionally, the cream's moisturizing properties help to relieve congestion and promote a restful night's sleep, allowing the body to recover from the underlying infection.

This natural remedy can provide relief and comfort during the cold and flu season.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia creams that help with colds.

• Linalool: This terpene has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce the severity of cold symptoms, such as congestion and coughing.
• Linalyl acetate: This terpene has antiviral properties, which can help combat viral infections that cause colds, such as rhinovirus and influenza.
• Caffeic acid: This phenolic compound has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, alleviating symptoms of colds, such as sore throats and fatigue.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make creams for colds.

• Flowers: Used due to their high content of essential oils with antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Leaves: Used due to their ability to help soothe and calm irritated skin and mucous membranes.
• Seeds: Used due to their ability to provide a rich source of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 250 grams of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers at peak potency and dryness for later use.
2. Infuse 250 grams of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers in 1 liter of cold-pressed carrier oil for 2 weeks.
3. Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container.
4. Combine 100 grams of beeswax and 200 grams of shea butter in a double boiler and melt at 180 degrees fahrenheit.
5. Gradually add the infused oil to the melted beeswax and shea butter mixture and whip until smooth and creamy.

8. Calendula officinalis

Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, creams helps with colds because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

The cream's active compounds, such as triterpenoids and flavonoids, work together to soothe irritated skin, reduce swelling, and combat bacterial and viral infections that often accompany colds.

Additionally, Calendula's ability to promote tissue repair and accelerate wound healing helps to alleviate congestion and ease respiratory symptoms, making it a popular natural remedy for colds and flu.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis creams that help with colds.

• Triterpenoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and pain associated with colds, such as sore throats and congestion.
• Flavonoids: As an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, quercetin helps combat the oxidative stress and inflammation caused by viral infections, such as the common cold.
• Alkaloids: These compounds exhibit antimicrobial properties that help combat the underlying bacterial or viral infections causing cold symptoms, such as sinusitis or bronchitis.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make creams for colds.

• Flowers: The flowers of Calendula officinalis are primarily used in creams for colds due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
• Leaves: The leaves contain flavonoids and terpenoids that provide antiseptic and soothing properties, making them suitable for cold-related skincare creams.
• Flowers: The flowers of Calendula officinalis also contain carotenoids and triterpenoid saponins, which contribute to their ability to soothe and protect the skin during colds.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh calendula officinalis flowers in late morning when the dew has dried but the flowers are still moist.
2. Dry the harvested flowers in a single layer on paper bags or a drying rack for 7 to 10 days.
3. Infuse 2 cups of dried calendula officinalis flowers in 2 cups of carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil for 2 to 4 weeks.
4. Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth into a clean glass jar and discard the solids then add beeswax.
5. Heat the infused oil mixture with 1 tablespoon of beeswax in a double boiler until the wax has melted and the mixture has cooled.

9. Sambucus nigra

Sambucus nigra, also known as elder, creams helps with colds because of its high concentration of bioactive compounds, particularly flavonoids and anthocyanins.

These natural extracts have potent antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe a sore throat and alleviate congestion. The cream's active ingredients work to reduce the severity and duration of cold symptoms, such as coughing, sneezing, and runny nose.

By promoting a healthy immune response and reducing inflammation, Sambucus nigra creams provide fast and effective relief from cold and flu symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Flavonoids: These compounds help with colds by acting as powerful antioxidants, reducing inflammation, and modulating the immune response to alleviate symptoms.
• Vitexin: This flavonoid glycoside has antiviral properties, which can help inhibit the replication of viruses responsible for the common cold, thus reducing its severity and duration.
• Sambunigrin: This saponin glycoside possesses immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory activities, which can help boost the body's immune response and reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines associated with colds.

Parts Used

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

• Flowers: They are rich in antiviral and antimicrobial compounds that help soothe and calm cold and flu symptoms.
• Leaves: They contain salicin, a compound similar to aspirin, which helps reduce inflammation and relieve cold symptoms.
• Fruits: They are high in vitamin C and other antioxidants that help boost the immune system and fight off infections associated with colds.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 10-15 stems of sambucus nigra flowers at full bloom and gently clean them with distilled water.
2. Infuse 2 cups of the cleaned sambucus nigra flowers in 4 cups of carrier oil such as coconut oil.
3. Steep the infused oil mixture in a double boiler for 2-3 hours or overnight to allow for efficient extraction.
4. Strain the infused oil mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container discarding the solids.
5. Whip the extracted oil mixture with shea butter and beeswax at a 1:1 ratio to create a smooth cream texture.

10. Verbena officinalis

Verbena officinalis, also known as lemon verbena, creams helps with colds because it contains antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties that combat the underlying causes of respiratory issues.

The cream's active compounds, such as linalool and limonene, work to soothe and calm the throat, reducing inflammation and congestion. Additionally, its expectorant properties help to loosen and clear mucus, making it easier to breathe and recover from a cold.

This natural remedy provides relief from cold symptoms, promoting a faster and more comfortable recovery.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Verbena officinalis creams that help with colds.

• Lignans: Lignans in Verbena officinalis creams have antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate cold symptoms by reducing the severity and duration of viral infections.
• Iridoids: Iridoids, specifically verbascoside, have been shown to exhibit antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, which can aid in fighting off infections that cause colds and reduce associated symptoms like congestion and coughing.
• Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid, a polyphenol present in Verbena officinalis, possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help combat oxidative stress and inflammation associated with colds, promoting faster recovery.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of lemon verbena used to make creams for colds.

• Leaves: Leaves of Verbena officinalis are used to make creams for colds because of their antiviral and antibacterial properties, which help alleviate symptoms.
• Roots: The roots of Verbena officinalis are used for their expectorant properties, making them suitable for creams that help relieve congestion associated with colds.
• Flowers: Flowers of Verbena officinalis are used in creams for colds due to their anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which help soothe respiratory issues.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh verbena officinalis leaves and flowers in the morning when the plant is at its peak fragrance and potency.
2. Steep 2 tablespoons of dried verbena officinalis in 2 cups of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to create a strong infusion.
3. Strain the infusion through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass container to remove the plant material.
4. Mix 1/4 cup of the infused liquid with 2 tablespoons of beeswax and 2 tablespoons of coconut oil in a double boiler.
5. Stir the mixture until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency then let it cool before transferring to a storage container.

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

The best combination of herbal creams that help with colds is a blend of Echinacea and Peppermint.

Echinacea is known for its immune-boosting properties, which can help to fight off the underlying infection. Meanwhile, Peppermint's decongestant and anti-inflammatory properties can provide relief from congestion and soothe a sore throat.

Adding a touch of Ginger and Thyme to the mix can further enhance its effects, as Ginger has natural anti-inflammatory properties and Thyme is known for its antimicrobial properties.

What ailments similar to colds are treated with herbal creams?

Ailments similar to colds/creams.html">colds/creams.html">colds that are treated with herbal creams are minor skin irritations, rashes, and itchiness caused by allergic reactions or environmental factors.

Herbal creams containing ingredients like aloe vera, tea tree oil, and chamomile soothe and calm the affected area, reducing redness and inflammation.

They also provide antiseptic and antibacterial properties to promote faster healing and prevent infection.