Pantry Spices That Act As An Aid During Cold and Flu Season
The time of the year is nearing, and while it’s dreadful, it’s better to be prepared when it comes. These days we’re dodging everything from the common cold and flu to the Coronavirus; it is simply too much to keep up with. As flu season approaches, we have been considering all the ways to prepare early on; honestly, could it be any more dreadful? Flu, also known as Influenza, is a viral infection that is common during the Fall/Winter season. Often mistaken for a common cold, it’s important to pay close attention to your symptoms and see a doctor the moment you suspect you’ve contracted the flu.
The flu can spread very easily, causing respiratory issues and even forming Pneumonia. There are all types of antibiotics, over-the-counter remedies, and even shots to support our health when we’re down with the flu. My go-to favorite when I have a common cold or serious illness is opting for more holistic methods to help me get better. Many don’t know that there are many herbs and spices in our pantries that can help aid us during flu season. We’ve compiled a list for you.
Disclaimer: Please note that we’re no experts. We’re sharing information that we’ve tried and have worked for us over the years. We highly recommend consulting a doctor or licensed professional before trying new in-home remedies.
TURMERIC
Well, we use it for skincare, but we suppose it can be used in other ways. For thousands of years, turmeric has been used in India as a spice and medicinal herb. The most common and main active ingredient in turmeric is Curcumin. Curcumin has powerful anti-inflammatory effects and is a very strong antioxidant. Because turmeric itself contains a very low percentage of curcumin (about 3%), it’s good to incorporate it into your meals or drinks daily to get the support and benefits you’re looking for. You can sprinkle a little turmeric in your soup or your morning breakfast. A personal favorite is adding ground turmeric to a glass of water with a few drops of lemon. It also helps to take turmeric-based supplements or a daily turmeric shot. Want to make your own shot? See the ingredients below.
7-oz. turmeric root
3 to 4 lemons with the rind removed
6-oz. ginger root, chopped
1 apple
Add them to your juicer or blender, and you’ve got yourself a deliciously healthy turmeric shot.
GINGER
Certainly, a favorite of ours, Ginger is a pungent and warming spice that is used for everything from warding off vampires to soothing nausea. When you’ve contracted the flu or pneumonia, it is very common to experience nausea and vomiting. Ginger, in all its forms, can act as a relief. When it comes to immunity, ginger acts as an antibacterial as well as aid in gut health. Nausea soothing is particularly the most common benefit; Ginger also acts as a prebiotic. Gut health check. Ginger improves the immune health of your gut by supporting the growth of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium bacterial species. It’s also a warming spice; it can help when you’re experiencing chills and high fevers.
GARLIC
Not the favorite of any bunch, but it definitely does the trick. Another antibiotic, Garlic, contains compounds that help the immune system fight germs Garlic is a powerful antioxidant with antimicrobial, antiviral, and antibiotic properties. For colds and flu, it also supplies decongestant and expectorant effects. For centuries, it has been recommended during cold and flu season to eat a spoonful of raw, chopped garlic cloves – or even to gnaw right on a fresh clove. Try this at your own risk, we wouldn’t, but we’re sure some of you are brave enough to give it try. There is a multitude of ways to consume garlic outside of the above. There is always the option of chopping it up and adding it to your favorite soup or stew. You can also mix it in with your favorite juices and smoothies.
HONEY
One of the most common remedies during cold and flu season is honey. While it doesn’t have the power to cure a cold, it can certainly act as an aid and remedy for symptoms. Nutritionally, 1 tablespoon of honey (21 grams) contains 64 calories and 17 grams of sugar, including fructose, glucose, maltose, and sucrose. It contains virtually no fiber, fat, or protein. Like ginger, honey holds several antioxidants such as organic acids and phenolic compounds like flavonoids. Another cool but important fact, honey acts as a prebiotic. It contains oligosaccharides, substances that promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. So, when you’re feeling a little under the weather this season, remember that a few teaspoons of honey can go a long way.
