There are many herbal flu remedies. Seasonal flus and colds are things that most people have to deal with at one time or another. There are also products that help to boost the immune system, possibly preventing many of the seasonal viruses and these may be considered natural flu remedies, as well.

One of the better known herbal flu remedies is echinacea. There have been numerous clinical studies showing that echinacea stimulates the immune system and is effective in the treatment of influenza. One study in Volgograd showed that echinacea, not only contributed to quicker recovery, but also reduced the risk of post-flu complications. When it comes to natural flu remedies, echinacea is one of the better choices, both as a treatment and a preventative.

Another one of the effective natural flu remedies and/or preventatives according to scientific studies is beta glucan. This is not generally considered one of the herbal flu remedies, because it is not an herb, but it is sold by companies that sell herbs, botanicals and other natural products. It is basically a carbohydrate derived from botanicals, like barley and oats. It has been shown that beta glucans stimulate the immune system and are effective for treating colds, flu and other viral and bacterial infections. Beta glucan may not be as well known as echinacea, but it is still one of the better choices for natural flu remedies.

Bilberry, green tea, ginseng and turmeric are other popular herbal flu remedies and there use as such is supported by scientific and/or clinical studies. In addition, these herbal flu remedies were used by historically by native peoples to treat and relieve the symptoms of colds and flus and as health tonics. Warm green tea, as well as other herbal teas, may also be soothing to the throat or nasal passages and may help relieve head and body aches. Once you have a cold or the flu, natural flu remedies are just as effective as over the counter products like Theraflu and have fewer side effects.

In addition to herbal flu remedies, extra vitamin C and essential minerals such as copper, manganese, magnesium and zinc are all important to assist the body's natural immune system in fighting off viruses. Add these to proper diet, adequate rest and you have a recipe for improved health, as well as natural flu remedies.

You could buy all of these herbs separately and keep them in the pantry for cold and flu season, but remember that dried herbs do have a shelf life and lose their efficacy.