Everyone gets sick during the Winter months. Using herbal remedies to boost the immune system will help keep you healthy in this chilly weather. Once you get sick there are also herbs that speed up recovery and give relief from your symptoms. Here are a few herbal remedies and herbs perfect for the winter months.

Garlic can be used to fight bacteria, such as streptococci, clear chest congestion, reduce fevers and speed the healing of wounds. It is best eaten raw because cooking takes away its potency. Garlic, if not eaten raw, is available in pill and liquid form. Use it as a poultice (garlic and oil) and apply to scratches and minor wounds to make them heal faster. Take or eat some garlic if you feel sick or might be coming down with something. It will help your body fight off bacteria and viruses before they have a chance to spread. Garlic is used in many other herbal remedies. You might want to keep some (in pill form or raw) on hand at all times.

IMPORTANT NOTE: ALWAYS READ THE ENTIRE LABEL TO MAKE SURE THE MEDICINAL HERBAL PRODUCT DOES NOT CONTAIN SOMETHING THAT YOU MAY BE ALLERGIC TO AND WON'T MIX WELL WITH OTHER MEDICATIONS YOU'RE TAKING.

Little known facts

The black walnut is also known as the American walnut since it's native to such North American areas as Ontario, Canada and South Dakota. It can also be found in Georgia, Florida and Texas.

The deciduous black walnut tree will grow up to 130 feet. In Europe, the tree itself has been cultivated for wood since 1629. It's a spectacular-looking tree, but since it's deciduous its leaves and fruit fall seasonally. It won't look all that great in winter.

Black walnut has been used as a laxative by both the Native Americans and Europeans for many, many years.

Patients suffering from electrical shock have been successfully treated with black walnut.

True effects

If you have an ailment, like cramps or stress, don't turn to your medicine cabinet just yet. Try drinking an herbal tea first. Some ailments can be relieved with a simple cup of herbal tea.

For cramps and crankiness, something women can definitely identify with, try a tea made with spearmint, lemon balm, raspberry leaf and nettle. This type of tea can actually relieve the irritability and cramps that often accompany menstruation. One to two cups daily in the week before and the week during your period should help.

To relieve bloating, try ginger or peppermint tea. One to two cups can relieve the puffiness you're feeling and even help settle a stomach.

Women may be interested in taking motherwort tea. This tea helps with anxiety and relieves premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms. Motherwort also promotes the health of the uterus after childbirth.