It’s that time of year when colds and flus are abundant. There are many simple and inexpensive things that you can do to support your immune system. One of my favorites is ‘Yogi Tea’ or ‘chai’ as the popular name appears in Starbucks. This is an ayurvedic blend of spices that has many healing properties. The black pepper helps to purify the blood, cinnamon helps to strengthen the bones, ginger helps with colds, flus, digestion, inflammation, relax muscle spasms, and cardamom soothes the stomach and relieves gas. We drink this all year for the various different healing properties (and it tastes so good!) Drink 1-4 cups per day to help boost your immunity. This is also a great substitute for those of you trying to wean yourselves off of coffee. You can add a bit of black tea for a boost.
We have the bulk spices already mixed in the office. Or, if you have the spices and would like to make your own here is the recipe:
2 qts water
15 whole cloves
20 cardamom pods
20 black peppercorns
3 cinnamon sticks
8 slices fresh gingerroot
Bring water and spices to a boil, then lower to simmer, cover for 45 minutes. We turn the heat off and let the tea stand for upto 24 hours to let the flavors settle in and then strain it. Put in the fridge. As needed, add sweetener (real maple syrup, honey, agave) and milk of choice (cow, goat, rice, and soy work best). Enjoy!
My challenge to you:
Before running to the drug store at the first sign of a cold, try some natural remedies. Yogi tea, black pepper tea, lemon with ginger and honey, echinacea. Nature has provided so many tools for us that are easier for our bodies to assimilate and eliminate. Chiropractic care is also great for boosting your immunity!