Winter is here, it’s getting colder and you haven’t seen the sunshine in a while… One day you wake up feeling a bit under the weather and with a lovely red nose and a scratchy throat. Don’t panic, before running to the nearest pharmacy just give a try to these natural remedies that will make you feel better in a all natural, easy and affordable way.
The following are my top 5 picks you need to know about to hopefully stay away from chemical-based medications this winter:
Echinacea
This little plant (Echinacea purpurea) has been used by Native Americans for hundred of years to put the immune system in top-notch form and giving it a powerful awakening. It is very effective as prevention but also to help reducing symptoms and treat infections.
Garlic
Garlic is a powerful antioxidant with antimicrobial, antiviral and antibiotic properties. For colds and flus, it also provides decongestant and expectorant effects. It is considered the quintessential natural antibiotic.
Ginger
Ginger boosts the immune system and it contains antiviral and antifungal properties. By inducing sweating and expelling heat, it relieves mild fever. It also helps with nausea and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Lemon
Lemon is the king of vitamin C and has natural antibacterial properties and the natural ability to detoxify your liver. It acts a strong defense against germs.
Propolis
Propolis is a sticky resin made by bees to keep their hive together and protect it. It has strong anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory properties and is rich in flavonoids.
Honey garlic lemon tea
There’s a great way to use several of the ingredients that I explained above in a heady cocktail apparently known as the “Spanish cure” (old tea new name for me). It boosts your immune system and it really helps especially if you are having problems with your respiratory tracts (hello, allergic and asthmatic friends). Don’t be put off by the garlic as the honey and lemon soften its taste –and if not, the good thing is that vampires won’t go near you –just kidding–.
Instructions:
- In a large saucepan, bring to boil 3 cups of water and simmer 4-5 cloves of garlic (cut in half) for 10 minutes.
- Strain, add juice from half lemon or more and two spoonfuls of honey and drink warm three times a day.
Note: the garlic can substituted with fresh ginger or better than that, just add both to your tea.
Enjoy and stay warm and healthy!
Credits: Photo by Olga Arroyo, illustrations by Linda Dieschbourg