Ever since we had Sawyer and Liv started school, we can’t seem to go more than a few weeks until one of us gets a cough or cold. Around Mother’s Day, I started getting an itch in my throat that eventually manifested into a full-blown cold that I just couldn’t shake for weeks. I’m very anti- antibiotics unless they’re completely necessary, so I wanted to find some natural remedies to help fight whatever was attacking my immune system. Finally this week, I tried all my newfound treasures and *knock on wood* I’m actually 99% better!! I’m pretty shocked that it worked and I wish I would’ve tried this stuff weeks ago, but now I know for the future where to turn when I feel like I’m getting sick.
- Chicken soup: My mom kept telling me that I NEED to eat chicken soup to get better. I thought she was telling me an old wives’ tale, but I actually found on WebMD that it “helps clear nasal congestion as well as thin mucus so you can better cough it up. In addition, research shows it may have a mild anti-inflammatory effect than can help ease symptoms.” I guess Mom does always know best… thanks Mom!!
- Manuka Honey: a friend told me that this stuff is god-sent and I didn’t believe the hype (or the price tag!), but now I’m a believer. I researched why this honey is different than regular honey, and it happens to have antibacterial properties that are proven to heal. It also has antiviral, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. One of the articles I read explains its healing properties and history really well: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/manuka-honey-uses-benefits . I’ve been drizzling this stuff on everything the past few days from overnight oats, to avocado toast, to blueberry muffins. We use this brand: Wedderspoon Raw Premium Manuka Honey
- Elderberry: Elderberries are rich in flavonoids, which boost the immune system and have antioxidant properties. Our childrens’ pediatrician told us to give Liv Elderberry Extract whenever she starts showing symptoms of a cold. We buy her this organic children’s version: Nature’s Way Sambucus for Kids, Organic Elderberry Syrup
- Zinc: Zinc lozenges were found to shorten the duration of common cold episodes by up to 40 percent in a study published in the Open Respiratory Medicine Journal. Josh and I use this organic version: Natures Way Sambucus Organic Zinc Lozenges with Elderberry and Vitamin C
- Echinacea: Research shows it increases the number of white blood cells, which fight infections. I drink this organic echinacea/elderberry tea at night with manuka honey: Traditional Medicinals Organic Echinacea Plus Elderberry Tea Bags
- Ginger, Turmeric, Lemon, Cayenne Pepper: My friend told me to blend a mixture of these together to make a paste twice a day, and to swallow it quickly. I didn’t have the courage, so I blended it all together with a strawberry banana smoothie. It definitely tickles the throat (hello cayenne pepper and ginger!) but it also definitely works to heal. The anti-inflammatory gingerols and shaogals in ginger root soothe a sore throat quickly, and also kill rhinoviruses, which cause infections in the first place. Turmeric has antiviral properties and can reduce symptoms of viral infections. Lemons are a good source of Vitamin C and help cut through congestion. Finally, the component in cayenne that gives it that spicy flavor—capsaicin—happens to be a natural decongestant.
Hoping these tips keep everyone healthy to enjoy the warm weather ahead!
Chunky Chicken Soup with Apple and Sweet Potato
Chicken thighs simmered on the bone with apple, sweet potato, carrot and onion. The apple is the thing that makes it: it collapses into the broth and takes the edge off the salt without making the soup sweet.
Cook the chicken on the bone, then lift it out, discard the bones and return the meat in chunks. The bones are where the body of the broth comes from.
Lightly oil a small pan and saute onions until caramelized. Add in the garlic and cook until fragrant.
Add in the broth, then chicken, apples, sweet potatoes, and carrots. Sprinkle with seasoning. Ensure the liquid covers the chicken- if not, then add enough water to cover. Add in chopped dill. Bring to a boil for about 4 minutes. Reduce heat, cover the pot partially with a lid, and allow to simmer for 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Transfer chicken to a plate and discard the bones. Chop chicken roughly into bite size pieces and return to pot. Cover and cook for another 5 minutes.
