What herb or herbs can I boil to make a vapor to clear up a cold?
You can use Eucalyptus, Thyme, Chamomile or Peppermint.
For a steam inhalation, make a tea of the herb, pour into a bowl, drape a towel around your head and the bowl to keep the steam in, and inhale slowly and deeply for a couple of minutes.
If you are using essential oils, add 3 - 4 drops to a bowl of boiling water. The use of many essential oils is contraindicated in pregnancy and small children.
Eucalyptus works strongly on the respiratory system, is anti-bacterial and antiviral.
Thyme is antibacterial and antiseptic.
Chamomile is anti-inflammatory, calming and antiseptic.
Peppermint is antiseptic and promotes sweating to eliminate toxins and reduce a high temperature.