You know we’ve got 5 kids! This means that I just might have faced colds and flus a time or two.

In fact, I’ve joked that the only time I’ve thought maybe having 5 kids wasn’t such a good idea was when we were ALL sick at once. I’d be groaning on the couch, being called on to help a puking young ‘un, or to clean up after one that didn’t quite make it to the bucket, and I’d think to myself, “WHO has FIVE children? Were we CRAZY? Whose ridiculous idea was this?”

Actually it was a WONDERFUL idea, and when we aren’t all sick, I thank God for my beautiful family.

BUT…we sure had our share of colds and flus.

I’ve got to admit that I don’t tend to think clearly under pressure. I have the deepest admiration for people who work in emergency rooms, who can see suffering people and calmly determine what needs done.

Me, I tend to get a little panicky. “Oh, shoot. I know I’ve got a remedy for that, but I can’t remember what it is!”

Well, a few years ago, I got a brilliant idea from a fellow homesteader. She recommended creating protocols for the various medical situations we face with our families. Absolutely brilliant!

So now I’ve added a section to my “Jen’s Family Favorite Recipes” binder called “Herbal Remedies.”

The first page lists a few of my favorite go-to Cough, Cold, & Flu treatments.

Things like garlic medicine, oil pulling…

…and Sinus & Lung Congestion Steam Baths, blending 1/2 C apple cider vinegar (and adding 1/2 t cayenne, which gets things moving, if you’re courageous!) with 2-3 C boiling water. Place in a sturdy glass bowl on a towel on the table. Have tissues nearby…you’ll need ‘em! Drape a towel over your head and the bowl to create a tent. Breathe in the steam for 15 minutes, stopping to gasp for air 😉 and blow your nose as needed. This is great to clear congestion for older kids and adults who can safely manage hot things.

For little ones, how about warm peppermint tea with honey? (Of course, no raw honey for babies under 1 year old.)

So here they are: five of my go-to remedies for all sorts of coughs, colds, and flus. ⬇️⬇️⬇️

(What’s your favorite home remedy? Please share in the comments below! We Mamas are always adding to the arsenal!)