Cold and flu season is upon us. Natural remedies can be incredibly safe, effective, affordable and without side effects. Here is one of my favorite home remedies to use for preventing or lessening the duration and intensity of your cold or flu. This recipe is safe for children age one and above. Note: honey should not be given to infants younger than one.
Garlic Honey Lemonade
Ingredients:
- 1 quart of hot water
- 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1-2 lemons, juiced
- Honey to taste
- Optional: chunk of ginger
Directions: Finely mince garlic and place in a 1-quart mason jar. Pour hot water into a mason jar and steep for 30 minutes. Strain out the garlic, and to the liquid add the juice of 1-2 lemons. Sweeten to taste with honey. Drink warm, up to 3 cups per day.
Benefits: garlic contains an ingredient called allicin, which has natural anti-viral, anti-bacterial properties, making it excellent for fighting upper respiratory tract infections. Lemon is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, which support immune system function. Ginger contains anti-inflammatory properties and is calming for the stomach.
Dr. Alea Bell is a Naturopathic Doctor practicing at the Bowen Island Naturopathic & Acupuncture Clinic in Artisan Square. She practices Wednesdays & Sundays and welcomes new patients of all ages. She can be contacted at [email protected].
