So, after a nice warm holiday in Bali, I have just arrived back in freezing Melbourne! It seems like everybody is sick with the sniffles. I listened to a lady next to me in the aeroplane cough up a lung, and even my cat has a cold! So it has sparked me to write up some hot tips on how to boost your immune system this winter.
1. Liposomal Vitamin C
This special type vitamin C gets delivered straight to your cells so they can get to healing as soon as possible. Liposomal Vitamin C has a rapid absorption and reduces side effects such as tummy cramps or frequent visits to the bathroom. Vitamin C may reduce the severity and length of colds.
2. Chicken Soup or Bone Broth Recipe
My grandma’s remedy for colds and flu has always nipped the runny nose and aches in the bud. I like to cook chicken soup with the whole organic chicken, and veggies left in. Eat for lunch and/or dinner.
Ingredients
1 x Chicken carcass (or other meat bone), preferably organic
2 x Carrots, chopped
2 x Celery Stalks, chopped
Knob of ginger, chopped
2 x Garlic cloves, chopped (only use if you can tolerate it)
2 x teaspoon Turmeric powder
Enough water to fill ¾ of the pot
Add 1 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar
Method
Cook all ingredients down in a large pot for around 4 hours. You can leave for longer if you are using a slow cooker. When the water has reduced by half, strain off all food and store the liquid in the fridge.
You can add kelp noodles or rice noodles especially tasty for kids.
3. Happiness, laughter and giggles
People who laugh more have strong immune systems. Find what makes you laugh – is it a comedy show or having a giggle with a friend? Avoid things that inhabit your happiness like people who make you feel bad, guilty, or powerless. Do things that ignite your passion and make you feel happy and at peace.
4. Meditate and Practice Yoga
Studies have show that people that meditate and practice yoga have stronger immune systems. A great local yoga studio is Flow through Yoga www.flowthroughyoga.com.au. If you are thinking of doing some yoga, make sure you check them out!
5. Immune Herbal Tonic
We use immune boosting herbs ready to go at first sign of a sore throat or sniffle. These herbs can include Golden rod, Echinacea, Olive leaf, and Ribwort. Such herbs will help reduce mucous congestion, sinus, coughs, and reduce bacteria and viruses. The herbs that we use are wild crafted or organic, and have been shown to be superior to the ones used at health food shop or chemist. Safe for children and adults, be sure to ask us for the right herbs and dosage for you.
6. Onion Ear Muffs
This recipe is great for ear infections and sinus congestion.
Cut 1 onion in half
Place onion down on tray in oven 180 degrees for 20min
Take out of oven and leave till warm
Place a fork though each onion and place over ear
The warmth helps to break down mucus and soothes the pain away
Repeat for both ears
7. Be kind to yourself
Be gentle on yourself, a cold is the body’s way of resting and recharging. Allow your body time to repair. It’s the recurring infections that we need to wary of.
