5 Natural ways to boost your immunity for cold fighting power
1.Garlic contains several natural compounds, most notably allicin, one of the plant kingdom’s most potent antibiotics. This herb’s aromatic compounds are released from the lungs and respiratory tract, putting garlic’s active ingredients right where they can be most effective against cold viruses.
2. Ginger contains nearly a dozen antiviral compounds. This root helps reduce pain and fever, suppresses coughing and has a mild sedative effect that encourages rest. Pour a cup of boiling water onto a couple tablespoons of fresh shredded ginger for a tasty hot tea.
3. Elderberry contains two compounds that are active against flu viruses and prevents the virus from invading the respiratory tract. I recommend taking Elderberry syrup (you can find it at Whole Foods) as soon as you start to feel cold symptoms coming on, maybe two teaspoons up to three times per day as needed.
4. Whole food sources of Vitamin C, such as bell peppers, cantaloupe, pineapple and citrus may help relieve your cold symptoms.
5. The folkloric tradition that hot, spicy chicken soup is good for colds and flu is one I will readily follow. Make sure to add in lots of garlic and onions, ginger and hot red pepper. Good food and good medicine.
-Resource: The Green Pharmacy by James A. Duke, Ph.D.
Article written by:
Ashleigh Gurtler, Holistic Heath Counselor, FitEngine health advisor and reporter
Click for more information about Ashleigh and Holistic Health Counseling
