11 Supplements Beyond Vitamin C: Your Must-Have Checklist for Cold Season

7. Reishi Mushroom — The Adaptogenic Modulator

Reishi is an adaptogenic mushroom many experts recommend for immune modulation and stress resilience during winter months. As an adaptogen, it helps the body regulate responses to physical and emotional stress—useful because stress can weaken resistance to seasonal bugs. Reishi contains compounds that support balanced immune signaling rather than ramping things up indiscriminately. Practically, reishi is used as a daily extract, powder or tea during higher-risk months to promote steadier immune function and help manage the wear-and-tear of shorter, busier days. Quality matters: choose extracts standardized for active compounds and follow product directions. People who take immune-suppressing medications or have autoimmune conditions should check with a clinician first. For many readers, reishi represents a gentle, integrative tool that supports overall winter resilience when paired with foundational supplements and healthy habits.

8. Manuka Honey — Natural Throat and Antimicrobial Aid

Manuka honey offers natural antimicrobial and throat-soothing benefits that make it a helpful addition when the first scratch of a cold appears. Medical contributors cited manuka for its antiviral and antibacterial properties and its practical role in lowering local viral load in the throat. It’s an easy, pleasant option to use preventively or at symptom onset—add a spoonful to tea, take a teaspoon straight, or use it as a soothing coating when your throat feels raw. Product potency varies, so look for labeled UMF or MGO ratings if you want specific antimicrobial strength. Keep in mind that honey is not suitable for infants under one year. If you have diabetes, account for the sugar content in your meal plan and talk to your clinician about safe use. Manuka honey isn’t a miracle cure, but as a targeted, well-tolerated remedy it can shorten discomfort and complement other immune supports during cold season.