Natural cold and flu remedies can be found in your kitchen cabinets

Wednesday, November 13, 2013 by: Talya Dagan
Tags: natural remedies, common cold, kitchen cabinets

(NaturalNews) There are no known cures for the common cold; however, your kitchen cabinets are likely stocked with many ingredients that can help relieve symptoms and speed up recovery.

LEMONS: Lemons can be used to soothe sore throats, cleanse blood and loosen mucus in the sinuses or throat. A healing lemonade can be made by adding the juice from half a lemon and one teaspoon of maple syrup to a cup of warm water. Cayenne pepper can also be sprinkled on for added cleansing effect.

CHICKEN SOUP: Chicken soup has been used since the 12th century, when the Jewish physician and philosopher Maimonides recommend chicken soup to treat colds and flu. A whole natural organic chicken can be used to create a healing broth.

MUSTARD: Mustard packs placed on the chest can reduce fever and help heal mucous membranes in the lungs and chest.

GINGER: Ginger kills germs, and ginger tea can be used as an antiviral and also for upset stomachs. To make ginger tea, simmer two tablespoons of fresh ginger (chopped or grated) mixed into two cups of water. Simmer for 15 minutes, then remove from the heat and let it steep for ten minutes. This can be consumed as often as needed, as ginger is also healing for the stomach - and the stomach flu. A ginger bath stimulates the lymph system and can speed up lymph drainage. To make a ginger bath, use a food processor to finely grate a quarter cup of fresh ginger. Place the ground ginger into a cheesecloth (or an old nylon stocking will do) and soak in the tub as water fills.

GARLIC: Common household garlic is a great treatment for colds and flu and can also be used to prevent their occurrence. Raw garlic has antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral properties. Research has shown that garlic could speed up healing from the flu and also increase immunity. Too much garlic can cause bleeding, so those taking medications for blood thinning, such as aspirin, should take care when increasing the amount of garlic in their diet.

(Note: Seek medical help if symptoms persist or worsen. At signs of sudden weakness, or high fever, seek emergency care.)

Sources include:

http://science.naturalnews.com

http://www.naturalnews.com

http://lpi.oregonstate.edu

About the author:
Talya Dagan is a health advocate and health coach, trained in nutrition and gourmet health food cuisine, writing about natural remedies for disease and nutrition and herbal medicine. You can follow her blog at www.talyadagan.com