It’s that time of year again. Sniffles, congestion, and coughs are swarming around, but you can ward off infection or reduce the severity of an illness with warm and soothing teas, soups, extracts, and wellness toddies. Also, it is essential to get lots of rest and drink as much water as you can possibly stand. For increased immunity and illness prevention, let’s take a look at some favored immune boosting essentials.
Garlic: Number one on my list and so easy to incorporate into soups and fresh squeezed juices. The sulfur in garlic has anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties and goes to work immediately on fighting infection. Pass through a juicer to make a Garlic-Carrot Dream Juice or Creamy Cayenne Garlic Spread. Both of these recipes provide the potency of RAW garlic, which is the only way it is effective for combating illness.
Elderberry: These little tart berries are miracle workers for colds, flus, asthma, and even constipation. Research shows their anthocyanins boost immune function and ward off infections, bacteria and viruses. Begin using elderberry syrup at the first sign of an illness and take 1-2 teaspoons per day. A brand I use if I don’t have time to make my own is Sambucol. When I am in the spirit to make a home made recipe I use this tried and true and delicious blend.
Oil of Oregano: Is a highly potent extract of wild oregano plants. Two effective compounds found in OofO are carvacrol and thymol. Numorous studies demonstrate these compounds have significant effects in killing micro-organisms that cause many illnesses from common colds and flus to bacterial infections and fungus. Note that oil of oregano is not the same as the spice you use for cooking. At the first sign of illness, begin taking capsules or the liquid extract to ward off infection.
Umcka: I love this hot drink and swear if I drink 4 cups the very first day I feel a sniffle or a tickle in my throat, the next day, I am back to good health. This product is amazing for either keeping your cold at bay or reducing the severity. Pelargonium sidoides (EPs 7630) – the main ingredient in Umcka ColdCare works with your immune system to help support your body’s own natural antiviral defense mechanisms. Try it out.
Herbal Teas: There are so many healing and soothing herb teas available either in loose leaf or pouches and either way, they are calming to the body and many provide immune boosting power. One of my favorites for disease prevention is Pau d’ arco. Harvested in the Amazon, this herb derived from the inner bark of the Taheebo tree is a strong antioxidant, and is anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and is even known to have anti-cancer properties. It has been used medicinally for centuries by South American tribes and is becoming more well-known here in America through herbalist and functional medicine practitioners. Steep for 5-10 minutes in hot, but not boiling water and enjoy up to three times per day.
