Hi there Reader,

Cold and flu season? Let's be honest. It's really less-daylight, less-time-outside, and more sugary pumpkin-spice-everything season.

Whatever you call it, everyone seems to be coming down with something right now. So I want to share the supplements I keep stocked to support my family.

Why I reach for supplements first

Supplements and over-the-counter medications are not the same thing.

Most supplements are made from herbs, vitamins, and minerals, things your body already knows how to break down and use, a lot like food. Because of that, many of them are meant to be taken more often throughout the day, at the first sign of symptoms, until you start feeling better. Most over-the-counter medications are dosed once or twice a day.

Quick note: I'm not a doctor and this isn't medical advice. Supplements are not meant to replace medication for serious or acute illness. If you have symptoms that keep getting worse, please call your doctor. And if you're pregnant, nursing, or take prescription medications, check with your provider before adding anything new.

Before I get to the goods...

If anything on this list interests you, I'd love for you to order through my Fullscript account. Here's why:

1. You support my small business. I earn a small commission on orders placed through my account.
2. You know you're getting the real thing. Amazon is fast and easy, but there have been plenty of reports of fake or counterfeit supplements sold there. Fullscript sources directly from the manufacturers, so you know what you're getting.

Ok! The list:

My go-to combo

Integrative Therapeutics EHB. This is my go-to. Anytime someone walks in the door with a stuffy nose, sore throat, scratchy throat, or a cough, I grab this. I take two capsules every two hours until symptoms ease up, and I give my 12-year-old one capsule every two to four hours. Check the label for what's right for your family.

Oil of oregano. This one is a heavy hitter. It's known for its antimicrobial properties and it's potent, so a little goes a long way. I prefer capsules over the liquid.

Nasal sprays

Nasal sprays are the unsung heroes of your wellness toolbox. They're gentle enough to use several times a day, and they make a big difference.

Beekeeper's Naturals Nasal Saline Spray Max. This saline spray helps loosen mucus, calm swelling, and rinse out irritants like pollen and dust, all while keeping your nose from drying out. It also has bee propolis, which is rich in antioxidants. (Skip this one if you're allergic to bees or bee products.)

Xlear. I use this year-round, and I never travel without it. It's made with xylitol, which I like to think of as soap for your nose. It helps keep gunk from sticking to your nasal passages, keeps things moist, and opens up your airways without harsh ingredients. It comes in an adult and a kids' version.

Throat sprays

Biocidin Botanicals throat spray. I love the whole Biocidin line, but the throat spray is my favorite. When a sore throat shows up, this is me calling in the troops. It supports upper respiratory health and the gut microbiome, and it comes in gummies too.

Beekeeper's Naturals Propolis Immune Support Throat Spray. This is great for everyday immune support and for soothing a dry, scratchy throat. Four sprays to the back of your throat give you propolis plus vitamins C, B, and D, iron, and zinc. You can use it several times a day.

Homeopathic remedies

Homeopathics are newer to me and I'm still learning. The remedy is on the outside of those tiny pellets. You can let them dissolve in your mouth, but I like to dissolve them in a little water and sip. They're gentle enough for kids and adults, and because they're used up quickly, you'll take them several times a day.

Oscillococcinum. I reach for this one when it feels like the flu: body aches, chills, and fatigue. I dissolve about a third of the tube in water and sip it throughout the day. When it's almost gone, I mix up the next third, and keep going until the tube is done.

Cold Calm. This is my pick for that first sign of a cold. It's meant to help with sneezing, a runny or stuffy nose, and a mild sore throat. The tablets melt in your mouth, and it won't make you drowsy.

There's more where these came from

These are just my favorites. There are even more options in my [Fullscript Winter Support protocol]. Click the link, create a free account if you don't have one, and add your favorites to your cart. Every order gets a discount and ships right to your door.

I can't wait to live a life well nourished with you!