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When the weather turns and everyone starts sniffling, it can feel like you’re fighting an endless battle against coughs, colds and sore throats. Whether it’s the school run germs, office bugs or just the chill in the air, most of us want to recover quickly and support our immune system so we can get back to normal life.

While there’s no magic cure for a cold, nature has a few clever tricks up her sleeve. Research shows that over a third of people have had a cough in the last month, and symptoms are lasting longer than in previous years — so now’s the time to give your immune system some gentle back-up.

Why go natural?

More people are turning to plant-based remedies to ease symptoms and strengthen defences. Essential oils, botanical extracts and natural ingredients have been used for centuries to support breathing, soothe irritation and encourage rest — all without heavy medication.

Pharmacists and GPs agree that managing symptoms early makes a big difference. That means keeping the air you breathe clean, soothing the throat, and supporting your body’s natural healing response.

Six plant-powered ingredients to know this season

1. Eucalyptus – Best known for helping to clear blocked noses, eucalyptus essential oil supports easy breathing and has natural antiseptic qualities. It’s often used in Puressentiel’s respiratory range and even their Purifying Air Spray, which helps reduce airborne bacteria and freshen indoor air — ideal when windows stay shut in winter.

2. Scots Pine (Pine Bud Extract) – Traditionally used for coughs and congestion, scots pine has anti-inflammatory properties and a crisp, forest scent that can ease stuffy airways.

3. Erysimum (Wallflower) – Found in Puressentiel’s Acti Pure Kids Syrup, erysimum helps calm sore throats and reduce inflammation — especially helpful for little ones when colds hit hard.

4. Lavender – Not just for sleep! Lavender oil promotes relaxation and has mild antibacterial effects. Breathing more easily at night means better rest, which is vital for recovery.

5. Lemon – Bright, uplifting and cleansing, lemon essential oil can help soothe sore throats and support a healthy immune response.

6. Peppermint – Cooling and refreshing, peppermint oil naturally helps to clear catarrh and calm irritated airways.

Together, these natural ingredients offer gentle relief — easing breathing, soothing the throat, and refreshing the air you breathe.

Natural supports for the whole family

Puressentiel’s evidence-based range combines these plant extracts in easy-to-use formats — from Acti Pure Kids Syrup, made with organic honey, erysimum, elderberry and vegan vitamin D3 (great from age 3 +), to Respiratory Cough Syrup, which blends aromatic honeys and essential oils to calm coughs naturally.

For blocked noses, the Respiratory Decongestant Nasal Spray offers 100 % natural relief with eucalyptus, rosemary and geranium oils — suitable even for those with high blood pressure. And to support cleaner indoor air, the Purifying Air Spray uses a 41-oil blend including lemon, lavender and eucalyptus to reduce airborne bacteria and keep your home feeling fresh.

These products are plant-based, propellant-free and clinically proven — small helpers that make a noticeable difference through the winter months.

Everyday immune-boosting habits

Alongside natural remedies, a few simple habits go a long way:

• Open windows for ten minutes a day to refresh indoor air.
• Stay hydrated — water and herbal teas thin mucus and ease dryness.
• Eat well — colourful fruit, veg and plenty of vitamin C-rich foods support your immune system.
• Rest when you can — your body heals faster when you slow down.
• Use a humidifier or steam bowl to ease congestion naturally.
• Keep hands clean — viruses spread fast, especially in families.

The takeaway

Coughs and colds are part of winter life, but they don’t have to take over. Turning to nature’s pharmacy — through essential oils, soothing plant extracts and simple healthy habits — can help your whole family breathe easier, sleep better and recover faster.

Next time you feel that first tickle in your throat, reach for natural support first. A little prevention and a few drops of plant power can make all the difference.