For the final installment in this series I am sharing the recipes I use to keep my family healthy during cold, flu and even allergy season. I try the best I can to avoid using over the counter medications if there is a natural homemade remedy that will work. Mostly though, I use preventative measures to ensure that we get sick less and therefore don’t need as many medicines or trips to the doctor.
Health Juice:
There is no actual juice in this drink but when you call something juice, my kids are sure to want it. I found this recipe on the back of the Bragg Organic Raw-Unfiltered Apple Cider Vinegar bottle. They call it Bragg Vinegar Health Drink. My kids ask for it every morning as soon as they get out of bed. They love the flavor and they know it keeps them healthy, so it’s a win win situation. Here’s the recipe below.
1-2 tsp of apple cider vinegar (I actually use 1 Tbsp)
1-2 tsp of local honey (again I use 1 Tbsp to keep it balanced)
8-10 oz room temperature water
Stir together until completely blended and drink once or twice a day!
Elderberry Syrup:
There are many recipes on-line for homemade elderberry syrup and I guess the best way to find the one you like is to just try a few and see which one your family likes. Unfortunately elderberries can be expensive, so make a small batch at first to see if you like it. This is my variation on one I found by Wellness Mama during my own search.
3/4 cup dried organic elderberries
3 1/2 cups water
1 Tbsp powdered ginger
1 tsp cinnamon
4 cloves
1 cup local honey
Bring water, elderberries, ginger, cinnamon and cloves to a boil. Cover and reduce to a simmer for at least 45 minutes. The contents of the pan should have reduced by almost half. Let the mixture cool. Strain through a strainer in to a tall glass jar. Add the honey and stir until completely blended. This keeps in the refrigerator for 2 weeks.
My kids take one tsp in the morning and one at night to maintain a strong immune system. My husband and I take a Tbsp each day.
Super Duper Tea:
When my oldest is sick with a cold or upset stomach he always asks for Super Duper Tea. It’s a very simple and yummy way to make anyone feel better when they are under the weather.
1-2 bags of chamomile-lavender tea
1 tsp local honey
Heat water in tea kettle til warm, not hot. Pour over tea bag/s and brew for 5 minutes. Stir in honey and enjoy.
For more information on staying healthy year round, check out my previous posts in this series. Have a wonderful and vibrant holiday season!
http://enlightenednourishment.com/2014/10/17/get-well-soon/
http://enlightenednourishment.com/2014/10/20/rock-those-antioxidants/
http://enlightenednourishment.com/2014/10/22/anti-inflammatory-foods-and-respiratory-health/