photo by HealthHomeHappy
The most important way to avoid getting sick is to eat a healthy diet and support your immune system during the winter months by getting enough rest. Most people don”t eat a 100% perfect diet all the time (myself included) and we all allow ourselves to get run down from time to time. Colds and viruses are bound to happen to us or our children once in a while and the treatment you chose is important.
Why you shouldn”t use over the counter medicine
The conventional answer to colds and viruses is to treat it with an over the counter medication like a decongestant or antihistamine. This may provide temporary relief which also comes with drowsiness and dizziness. Although one might find some relief, these over the counter options are not supporting the body in it”s natural process of fighting the infection. Without using herbal supplements and foods to support the immune system during a cold it will likely be prolonged and cause a longer period of discomfort.
Herbs that fight colds
There are many herbs that can help fight off a cold and make cold symptoms more bearable. Elderberries have been used for centuries as a preventative treatment of colds and the flu. There is a long list of benefits to taking this herb that include reducing congestion and shortening the length of the cold or flu symptoms. Echinecea is also a popular herb to use in fighting off a cold and it is best taken at the first sign of symptoms. Another great herb to add to this list is rose hips. Rose hips are very high in vitamin C which has been known as an important vitamin to help fight off illness.
Making homemade herbal cold syrups is a simple process and can be done with little experience or equipment. This herbal cold syrup is helpful in fighting off a cold, shortening the length of the cold, and reducing the severity of symptoms. This one has been a regular remedy in my household during cold and flu season.
Herbal Cold Syrup
- 2 cups filtered water
- 1/4 cup elderberries
- 1/8 cup dried echinacea
- 1/8 cup dried rose hips
- 1/2 cup raw honey
Pour the water and herbs into a sauce pan and bring to a boil for 3 minutes. Turn off the heat and let steep for 30 minutes. Pour the herbal infused water into a mason jar. Let the water cool in the jar. Once it has cooled add the honey into the jar and shake until blended. Take small doses of this every 1-2 hours while you are sick.
How long does the syrup last? I’ve seen mixed opinions. I’m assuming you would keep it in the fridge to prolong shelf life? I’ve made elderberry syrup before, but always end up wasting some since it doesn’t get used up fast enough and I don’t know how long it lasts. Thank you!
I do keep it in the fridge and it keeps for a long time. The more honey you use, the longer it will last. Mine has only gone bad once and that was because it was left out of the fridge for a long time.
There are a lot of different kinds of echinacea on the mountain rose herbs website where I was going to get the ingredients for this. What kind do you use? The herb or the root?
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