How to use different herbs against a cold?

[mari1]

Hy,

I'm an absolute newbie in this forum. I've created my account here, 'cause I have an urgent question:
I'm suffering quite frequently under colds and flus and I'm tired of those pills, which the doctor is giving to me every time I come there...From now on I would like to try a more natural way of treatment. Can anybody give me an advice about which herbs could help against different symptoms like headache, running nose and so on?!
Furthermore: A friend of mine has told me that he uses a vaporizer to evaporate different herbs. He says that it' s very effective to inhale the healthy contents of the herbs...Does anybody here have experinces with that?!

I would be glad about quick responses!

Best,
mari1