A cold can sneak upon you at any time; it is a minor infection caused by a virus. Viruses cannot be cured with antibiotics, and most of the time you make a run to the nearest drug store for an over-the-counter remedy. However, all medications, even aspirin have side effects. You may want to consider natural herbal remedies to help you feel better faster.
I can personally testify using ginger, helps get rid of congestion and reduces inflammation in your lungs. I rarely get a cold, but when I do I make ginger root tea. There is nothing better for chest congestion. Ginger root can be found in the fresh produce area of most grocery stores. Boil a piece of ginger root for about 20 minutes, drink it like tea, adding honey and lemon. Drinking ginger root tea 3 to 4 times a day will quickly get rid of chest congestion.
Elderberry is another herb that will help with viral respiratory illnesses. Elderberry stimulates your immune system which helps you to recover faster. Boil elderberries in water until they are thick like a syrup and add honey. Take 2 teaspoons twice a day with lukewarm warm water to get rid of colds and flu.
Turmeric works wonders to get rid of viruses and bacteria. Turmeric milk works better than the tea. 2 cups of milk, 1 teaspoon ground turmeric, 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, a pinch of black pepper, and a tablespoon of maple syrup or honey. Mix all the ingredients and add to a saucepan over medium heat. Let it simmer for 10 minutes, pour into a cup and drink it. The best time is in the morning 30 minutes before breakfast on an empty stomach. Or at bedtime to fight inflammation and stress.
Lemon juice will help reduce how long you have a cold. It has a high amount of vitamin C, which boosts your immune system. Warm lemon water eases nasal congestion and sore throats. Squeeze half a lemon into a cup of warm water and drink to relieve cold symptoms. I drink lemon water every day first thing in the morning even when not sick. I slice a whole lemon, add it to a pitcher of water and drink two to three glasses a day. Store in the fridge.
Echinacea is a super herb when it comes to getting rid of colds and flus, it quickly reduces symptoms. Drinking echinacea tea regularly leads to fewer colds and if you get one it shortens the amount of time you are sick. Be careful of where you buy fresh herbs, commercial ones may have been sprayed with pesticides and lose their potency. For those of you with an autoimmune disease, do not use echinacea before talking with your doctor as it could increase your symptoms. Herbs are very easy to grow; I grow them in my kitchen window. Make echinacea tea by steeping fresh echinacea leaves, flowers, or roots in boiled water for 5-10 minutes. Strain and add honey.
Peppermint contains natural menthol which opens up your nasal passages, soothes a sore throat and loosens up mucus. Fresh peppermint leaves are better than the dried ones because of the oils they contain. To make peppermint tea steep 1-2 teaspoons of tea leaves in nearly boiled water for 5-7 minutes and add some honey. Drink it hot or cold.
These are certainly not all of the virus fighting herbs, but I want to leave you with one last virus fighting herb combination. The powerhouse combination of echinacea and elderberry tea. Drinking this tea during cold and flu season can help prevent infection. If you get a virus, it can reduce the length of time you are sick, boost your immune system, and prevent reinfection.
Elderberry and Echinacea Tea
INGREDIENTS
- 1 tsp. dried elderberries
- 1 tsp. dried echinacea
- honey to taste
- lemon juice to taste
DIRECTIONS
- Put the dried elderberries and echinacea in a tea ball infuser or tea bag
- Place it in a cup, add 1 cup boiling water, and steep for 3 minutes.
- Remove the tea ball / bag. Add honey and lemon to taste.
- Drink a cup of the tea in the morning and at bedtime.
If you are taking any medications, please consult with your health care provider before taking any herbal remedies. Wishing you the best of health, however, if you do get a cold or the flu, try natural herb remedies.
Until next time
Peace Love and Blessings ❤️
