When the flu bites, when the cold stings… these are a few of my least favorite things… Fortunately, some cases of illness can be easily prevented, and even once an illness has struck, natural and herbal remedies can help shorten the duration and get you feeling better faster. I posted before about what I keep in my medicine cabinet (and in my purse when traveling), but since we are getting in to the heat.. er, cold, of flu season, I thought more information could be helpful. These natural remedies are effective at speeding recovery from illness and injury. They are a combination of herbs, supplements and lifestyle adjustments to help your family bounce back from ill health. Although oregano is best known for giving pizza and pasta an extra kick, Patrick Fratellone, MD, a leading integrative medicine doctor and registered herbalist with the American Herbal Guild, recommends reaching for this herb to treat a hacking cough. Oregano is a powerhouse of flu-fighting properties since it's antibacterial, anti-fungal, and an antioxidant, and it can also be used an expectorant to treat lung or respiratory conditions. You could take an oregano capsule twice a day with meals, but if all you have on hand is a bottle of the dried herb, you can make an oregano tea: Pour 8 ounces of boiling water over 1 teaspoon of dried oregano and let stand for 10 minutes. If the taste is too bitter, add some raw honey. Aim to drink two cups a day. This elixir can also be used topically to treat skin infections and calm. Start your new healthy life style and healthy life now.