AAAAAHHHH- CHOOOOO

Seems to be that just about everyone has some sort of sniffle, cough, achy body, or tummy ache these days. The cold and flu are here and wrecking havoc on us and our loved ones. Here are some at home tips to help you stay well... and if already infected, help speed up the healing process.

Echinacea- Helps address the symptoms of the common cold, flu, sore throat and other common infections. It enhances the immune system.

Garlic- Common cold, sore throat, ear infections in children, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, fungal or yeast infections, low resistance to infection; it is a natural antibiotic and antiviral agent. Chop it up and add it to foods, or mix with water and allow to sit for 10 minutes then hold your nose and down the water. You can even chop them up and swallow them whole. Aim for two cloves in a day at the sign of a cold coming on.

Ginger- has antiviral and antimircobial properties that can help prevent or cut the duration of the stuffy nose, sore throat, aches and pains. Has anti-inflammatory as well as antioxidant compounds. Try ginger root tea with lemon.

Lemons- Adding lemon to water or tea is great way to up the vitamin c you are getting. The pill form isn't always best and getting it from the whole food it self can sometimes work better. Vitamin C has been shown to boost the immune system. When more white blood cells are present to fight infection, the life of the offending virus is cut short. Instead of taking pills, drink lemon juice mixed with warm water and a splash of honey. The water cuts the acidity of the lemon. The honey is added for a more pleasant taste and it's antiviral and antimicrobial properties as well. Lemon juice also decreases the toxicity of the virus in the body

Astragalus- Immune-boosting tonics. It is the root of a plant in the pea family long used in China to prevent illness and strengthen sick people. You can get slices of dried astragalus root at Chinese groceries and some health-food stores. Simmer the slices in tea or soups (they'll add a pleasant sweet taste). Or buy extracts of astragalus in liquid, capsule or tablet form. Follow the dosing directions on the package.

Eucalyptus -Respiratory problems including chest congestion, bronchitis, bronchial cough and sinusitis, sore throat; it is a natural antibacterial agent. Add a teaspoon of oil to boiling water for steam inhalations.

Peppermint oil- Massage peppermint oil on the chest to ease the congestion and colds, and help you breathe easier.

Stay well!!
Namaste ♥
Deanna Rae