Harmattan: cold/flu.... Forget about the store bought solutions everything you need to fight the flu/cold is already sitting in your kitchen. As the harmattan seems to be gathering momentum each day in Lagos area,with its extreme effect being felt in the northern part of the country. And while everyone stocks up on cold and flu medication,i keep reminding myself;its not the germ its the terrain,this term which i learnt from a former professor,is one i repeat to all my client,friends and family. It means that by building a healthy body and immune system,germs will not be able to survive and make us sick. Being preventative creates an environment that germs dont want to live in. This means eating lots of fruits and vegetables,cutting back on processed foods and sugar,making time for exercise and getting enough sleep. However life doesnt always go as planned and we sometimes do end up getting sick,whether you are just beginning to feel a scratch in your throat,or are in full blown flu mode,try sipping on my homemade,immune boosting,flu fighting tea,that kills bacteria,loosens mucus,relieves pain and allows your body to fight back naturally,this quote always come to mind the human body is designed to be self healing what this means is that in any disease condition when the necessary things are fed to the body,the body will work its way back to vibrant health. (1)Lemon: with natural antibacterial properties,high levels of vitamin c and the natural ability to support and detoxify your liver. Lemon acts a strong defence against germs. As disease thrives in an acidic environment,its alkalizing effect also promote health. (2) Ginger: this rhizomatous herb have been used for centuries to relieve a sore throat and loosen up congestion due to a cold. Best known for its ability to calm an upset stomach,ginger can also relieve aches and pains due to its anti inflammatory properties. (3) Cloves: cloves are expectorants,which means they make it easier to cough up and eliminate phlegm. They are also natural pain relievers and high in antioxidants that support the immune system. (4)Turmeric: one of the most effective anti inflammatories around,turmeric is one of the best things you can put in your body to prevent and treat cold and flu. Naturally antiviral and antiseptic,this traditionally used spice works wonders on our immune system,liver and overall health. (5)Cayenne: Great for warming the body and stimulating the release of built up mucous in the sinus and respiratory passages. Cayenne pepper also causes you to sweat,lowering a fever and eliminating toxins. Adding cayenne to your diet can also help to increase circulation and give you a natural relief of pain. (6) Raw honey: By using raw honey you re getting out the benefits of the enzymes,vitamins and minerals,that would otherwise be destroyed during the pasteurization process. Raw honey offers tons of protection against germs due to its strong antibacterial and antimicrobial effects,and i often eat a spoonful if i feel a sore throat coming on,quite effective. Heres how: Ingredients: 3 cups of water Juice of half a lemon 4 slices(1/4 inch thick) of fresh ginger 1/4 teaspoon cloves 1/2 tablespoonful turmeric 2 pinch cayenne( start with this and add more to taste,the more you can handle the better). 2 tablespoonful raw honey (can add more or less to achieve desired sweetness). Directions: (1) Add all ingredients (except honey) to a pot and bring to a boil. (2) once boiling reduce heat and let simmer for about 10 minutes. (3) Add honey and stir adding more if necessary. (4) Pour tea through a strainer and drink while warm. Please note: All ingredients(herbs) used are indigenous to Nigeria. Cloves is konofuru in yoruba. Turmeric is ata ile pupa some call it red ginger. It is a rhizomateous herbaceous perrenial plant of the ginger family. Cayenne pepper is ata ijosi in yoruba. These recommendations are meant for otherwise healthy individuals. Those that are immune compromised,elderly or sick for a long duration of time should consult their physician. If this have been helpful and educative,go like our page...
Posted on: Tue, 13 Jan 2015 08:45:23 +0000
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