Once you’ve created a holistic medicine cabinet, you’ll want to start investing in other items that are must-haves during cold and flu season. These are tools and wellness supplies that you’re not going to want to go pick up at the store when sickness hits your home. You’re going to want to have them on hand and readily accessible!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you.
Humidifier – I like to have multiple humidifiers so we can have one in each bedroom. In the winter, the air is cold and dry and can wreak havoc on your sinuses, cause congestion, sore throat and bloody noses. It can really make sleeping difficult so having a humidifier to add some moisture to the air is helpful.
Nebulizer – I’ve found that having my own nebulizer is an important investment, especially with having children. Their respiratory systems are still developing and they are more susceptible to these types of infections. A nebulizer is a small machine that creates a mist out of liquid medication, allowing for quicker and easier absorption of that medicine into the lungs.
We use the nebulizer as a preventative with a capful of food grade hydrogen peroxide. When sickness hits, we nebulize colloidal silver and if necessary, a prescription medication.
Red Light Therapy– One of my favorite new wellness supplies is my Red Light box. It’s a device that emits low intensity red and infrared light deep into cells to stimulate cell regeneration, restore cell function and increase blood flow. There are many different benefits to using red light therapy.
As far as cold and flu, I like to use the red light for general immune system boosting and more specifically for headaches and improving sleep. It can also help with sinus congestion by reducing mucus production and helping to clear it out.

Epsom Salts – One of my regular go to’s is an Epsom salt bath. Epsom salt is also known as magnesium sulfate. When placed in water, it breaks down into magnesium and sulfate. When you soak in an epsom salt bath, these minerals are absorbed through skin. It can help relax muscles, relieve aches and pains, reduce inflammation and draw out toxins. It’s super helpful for when you or the kids aren’t feeling well.
Essential Oils – I use many different essential oils for many reasons as noted below. I always suggest doing your own research as to which essential oils are safe for children and pets before use. I like the Plant Therapy brand for a few reasons. They are committed to high quality 3rd party testing and share information on the purity and composition of their oils. They also have specifically noted on their oils which ones are ‘kidsafe’ so you can feel comfortable using them around your children.
- Chamomile – Relieves cold and flu symptoms
- Eucalyptus – Reduces fevers and fights viruses
- Ginger – Nausea
- Peppermint – Rever and reducing cough
- Respir Aid – Supports the respiratory system and helps to clear up congestion that builds up throughout the day.
- Germ Fighter – I love to diffuse this blend and it’s great for the immune system while cleansing and purifying the air.
- Defender – This blend is great at supporting a healthy immune system while warding off seasonal threats. It’s also very uplifting to the senses.
Diffuser – Diffusing germ fighter or defender is a great way to keep the air in your home clean before you get sick and they are great for the immune system if you are sick. I personally prefer to diffuse my oils. I do have the germ fighter in a rollerball to use on the kids for ease but in general in my home, I find diffusing to be the most effective way to absorb them.
Ear Thermometer – When we first had kids, we basically tried every type of thermometer before we found a good one that is easy to use and works well. A rectal thermometer is good for young babies, but once the kids are a bit older, we use this tympanic thermometer for more accurate readings.
Heating Pad – Body aches are a notorious symptom of cold and flu. A heating pad can relieve achy muscles and body pains by increasing the blood flow to these areas. Not to mention, if you’re going through chills, the warmth of a heating pad can ease discomfort.
In the Kitchen
There are some supplies in the kitchen that you’ll want to stock up on and have handy during cold and flu season as well.
Herbal Tea – I love Traditional Medicinals brand teas. They are an absolute must-have. Lemon Ginger is great for colds and flu, but also for symptoms of nausea. Throat Coat and Cold Care PM are also great for soothing the throat and helping with congestion. I keep these on hand all winter long. However, if you don’t have these handy, don’t underestimate the power of hot water with lemon. It was my very inexpensive go-to for years and I still use it when I have a sore throat.
Mullein Tea – Mullein Tea has been used for centuries. Its leaves and flowers are classified as expectorants, known for expelling mucus from the lungs. It’s also known for its anti-inflammatory properties. I keep it on hand for any congestion and coughing. It has a pleasant taste and my toddler will even drink it if I let it cool down enough.
Fire Cider – Fire Cider is a spicy homemade wellness tonic that is steeped in apple cider vinegar with pungent ingredients like horseradish, ginger root, garlic, jalapeño peppers and citrus. With the antibacterial and antiviral properties of the ingredients, consuming a tablespoon a day during cold and flu season will help strengthen the body’s immune system and fight off infections. It’s super easy to make your own, just follow the instructions here.

Bone Broth – Bone Broth is made by slowly cooking animal bones and connective tissue to extract nutrients and flavor. Typically you add celery, onion, herbs and spices, whatever you choose. The broth is full of nutrients like amino acids, protein and electrolytes. It’s great to drink it for daily wellness, but when you’re sick it can help soothe a sore throat, hydrate, strengthen the immune system and reduce inflammation.
Raw Local Honey/Honey Sticks – The key here is local raw honey. Try to stay away from the store bought processed honey if possible. The local honey has so many more benefits, it’s worth having on hand. It can provide allergy relief due to exposure to local pollen, soothe sore throats, aid in digestion and contains antioxidants. You can add it to your herbal teas as a natural sweetener or just enjoy a honey stick.
Apple Cider Vinegar – Apple Cider Vinegar should be in your medicine cabinet and in your kitchen. It can help with gut health and blood sugar when ingested or mixed in bath water (with the mother) for skin issues such as eczema or a detox bath. As a side-note, I no longer purchase the Bragg brand, I prefer the one linked.
Electrolytes – Hydration is extremely important, especially when you or the kids are sick.. De-hydration can be dangerous so consuming liquids is key. Our favorites are Coconut Water which is full of natural electrolytes and it has as sweet taste that the kids will love. This is our favorite Coconut Water and it’s the cleanest out there with no sugar, additives or pasteurization. We also use Redmond Re-Lyte hydration powder or LMNT hydration. Both are great for sports, and also a great source of hydration for anyone going through sickness.

Final Thoughts
By taking steps ahead of time to assemble your cold and flu wellness kit, you’ll be more prepared whenever illness strikes. You’ll be able to focus on what’s important and stay home and rest instead of worrying about what else you need to buy! Are there other key items do you add to your cold and flu wellness kit? Share in the comments below!
Disclaimer: I am not a doctor or medical professional. This is based on my own personal use. None of this post is considered medical advice.
Sources: planttherapy.com / healthline.com
Such helpful ideas, love the idea of red light therapy too.