While you may not have had to fight off a cold quite yet, the signs advertising flu shots are everywhere, marking the advent of the season. Opinions about how well these shots actually work vary, but one thing we do recommend is fortifying your cupboard with a few items that will help to both prevent colds and nourish you back to health. Take a minute to look over this list.
Tea
Why would we recommend anything less for the number one slot? The simple warmth of hot tea going down your throat to your stomach will soothe and break up mucus. Besides that, it is full of helpful antioxidants to jumpstart your immune system. Brew up a cup of Dragon Well or Organic Sencha when you start to feel a tickle in your throat. It will ease a sore throat as well.
Ginger
Ginger is a natural anti-virus and can help heat up the body to induce fever, and according to Doctor Oz, fever is the body’s way to naturally fight against a cold or flu. Stock your cupboards with Ginger Puerh or Ginger Sweet Orange this time of year.
Cinnamon and Honey
Both are excellent additives to your cup of tea. Cinnamon and honey both contain antibacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal properties. Together they work well as powerful immunity boosters.
Vitamin C
This one is almost a given, but make sure you keep it as a regular part of your diet. It works best to help your body prevent getting a cold or flu in the first place. Vitamin C has been used to build up immune systems, speed healing and improve general health for many years. Foods that are most rich in Vitamin C include lemons, oranges, bell peppers, strawberries, tomatoes and broccoli. Try a slice of lemon or orange in your next cup of tea. Ceylon Star tastes great with both!
Garlic
Sounds like a terrible thing to add to your cup of tea, right? However, you may be surprised to know that garlic along with salt is an age-old addition to a cup of tea if you are from Thailand. If you are brave enough to try it, let us know how it tastes. In any case, keep garlic on hand for cold and flu season. It will stimulate the immune system and help fight the virus. Add it to your chicken soup instead.
So raise a glass to cold and flu prevention this season and keep drinking tea!