Dealing with a cold, flu, or bronchitis? Respiratory infections spike in winter. Skip potentially ineffective or risky over-the-counter meds and turn to garlic—a trusted superfood with antibiotic-like properties that combats seasonal bugs and strengthens immunity.
Here are 5 powerful garlic remedies for the common cold. Try them for natural relief:

Thinly slice two cloves of garlic. Butter a slice of bread and top it with the slices. Eat it slowly, chewing the garlic well. The strong flavor fades quickly, and results come fast. Or chew raw cloves throughout the day to fortify your defenses.
At the first sign of infection, peel and chop two cloves of garlic. Place in a small bowl and inhale the vapors regularly. Boost it with 2-3 drops of eucalyptus radiata or peppermint essential oil.
Boil 250ml of water. Peel and coarsely crush 4-5 garlic cloves. Add to the hot water in a bowl. Drape a towel over your head and inhale the steam for 5 minutes once it's cool enough. Substitute with 2-3 drops of garlic essential oil if preferred.
Combine garlic's power with cinnamon: Boil 250ml water. Peel and crush two cloves. Add a cinnamon stick and garlic; steep for 20 minutes. Sweeten with honey or lemon. Sip hot, 2-3 times daily until symptoms ease.
Wild garlic mirrors cultivated garlic's benefits. Mix 15 drops of wild garlic mother tincture in water. Drink three times daily for three weeks.
Garlic excels at treating and preventing respiratory issues by bolstering immunity. Start incorporating it at winter's onset—season meals, sip infusions, or brew teas. A stronger body fends off viruses and bacteria effectively.
Rich in vitamin C, magnesium, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, and trace elements, garlic acts as a natural antiseptic and antibiotic, fighting infections as traditional healers have known for centuries.
Have you used garlic for colds? Share your experience in the comments—we'd love to hear!