How many times in a year do you experience coughs and colds? To most of us, two or three times a year is a normal number. This actually leaves much to be desired about our collective immune system. If you are prone to coughs and colds, your immune system might not be doing enough to ward off viruses and bacteria. The use of over-the-counter medications is not enough in keeping your immune system in top shape. You have to try herbal remedies for common coughs and colds. Here are some of the tried and tested remedies:1. PepperThere are different kinds of peppers. The hot ones can relieve stuffy nose. It helps unclog your nasal passage so you can breathe properly. According to studies, the capsaicin in hot pepper can also help clear out gunk in your system. Eating bell pepper is also ideal. Although it is not nearly as hot as those loaded with capsaicin, it contains a lot of vitamin C. In fact, bell pepper contains more vitamin C than oranges. This vitamin is needed to boost immune system and ward off bacteria, germs and viruses. 2. EchinaceaThis is one of the oldest herbal remedies for colds. It can help improve your immune system and fight common viral illnesses like colds. This also speeds up your recuperation when you have fever caused by the cold virus. 3. GarlicGarlic has antiviral and antibacterial properties. This can speed up your recovery from the influenza virus. Infuse garlic in a small jar filled with apple cider vinegar. Crush the garlic first before mixing it with ACV. This will release all the natural goodness of garlic. Once it has already soaked for a day, take a teaspoon or two of the ACV once a day. 4. EucalyptusThis can be used to treat nasal congestion and croup. Boil water. Place hot water on a dish pan. Add a few crushed Eucalyptus leaves to release the scent. Inhale the spicy scent of Eucalyptus. This will help clear nasal passage and provide relief for croup. 5. LicoriceLicorice is an ideal remedy for cough or sore throat. In fact, this is the primary ingredient in many brands of lozenges. Try boiling licorice root for about 30 minutes. Let it cool down and remove the root. You can add a tablespoon of honey and drink this mixture. It is so great that nature has blessed us with so many reliable treatments that can improve our health. Make sure herbal remedies are a part of your campaign in achieving a healthy body.