by Lindsay Peterson, DC
Hey guys! Personally I love natural cold remedies. Check out this article about some of my favorites.
Cold weather is quickly approaching and with that often comes an increased chance of suffering from colds, sinus infections or the flu. Below are a few of Dr. Lindsay’s favorite natural health remedies for preventing and getting over sickness quickly.
Bragg’s Organic, Raw & Unfiltered Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)
Although the taste leaves something to be desired, this little number does the trick! Whether you’re congested, nauseous or just feeling a little off balance, throwing back a little ACV will help speed up your recovery.
What to know
- 1-fl oz. or “shot” per day is typically enough
- If the vinegar taste is too strong for your taste buds (or stomach), try diluting it in a glass of water
- Why ACV?
- Kills bacteria
- Improves heart health
- Boosts metabolism
- Supports proper digestion
- Contributes to liver detoxification
- Reduces free radicals
- Improves immunity
Elderberry
All the rage these days, elderberry is something that deserves to be talked about. In case you didn’t know, elderberry is one of the greatest and oldest medicinal plants that is a strong supporter of the immune system – what we use to fight off disease. You can find elderberry supplements in many different forms such as a natural syrup, gummies, dissolvable tablets, etc.
Benefits of elderberry include:
- Improved immunity
- High levels of antioxidants
- Reduced inflammation
- Support of cardiovascular health
Hot Tea *with locally sourced honey*
Perhaps the most classic remedy, hot tea still remains one of the best ways to support your body naturally when you’re feeling ill. There is such a wide variety of teas out there to support whatever you might be experiencing. My favorite well-rounded immune boosting teas are Yogi’s Echinacea Immune System Support or Pukka’s Elderberry & Echinacea. Echinacea is one of the BEST sources for immune system support. Honey in your hot tea adds a little bit of natural sweetness and even serves as a natural cough suppressant – score! Honey that is sourced locally will also help to protect against anything that may be stemming from allergies.
Essential Oils
By now I’m sure you’ve heard one thing or another about essential oils and how they can be used for pretty much anything. It’s so true! Essential oils come in endless varieties/combinations and can be used in a number of ways including diffusing, topical applications, in conjunction with a sinus massage or direct application within the nasal passage using a cotton swab. HUGE BONUS coming your way if you use a diffuser as it functions as both a diffuser and humidifier in one! The humidity will help to eliminate issues associated with dry airways and sinuses. Below are a few of the most common symptoms experienced during the winter season with the recommended oils for relief.
Common symptoms & recommended oils for relief
- Cough – Cedarwood, Eucalyptus, Frankincense, Peppermint, Rosemary
- Runny Nose — Frankincense, Lavender, Lemon, Rosemary, Tea Tree
- Sinusitis — Eucalyptus, Helichrysum, Peppermint, Rosemary, Tea Tree
Although essential oils are certainly wonderful, use CAUTION and do NOT diffuse the following essential oils in the presence of your beloved household pets as they are toxic to pets and may contribute to unwanted health issues.
- Dogs – Tea Tree, Clove, Thyme, Wintergreen, Yarrow, Anise, Garlic, Horseradish, Juniper
- Cats – Tea Tree, Clove, Thyme, Wintergreen, Birch, Oregano, Cinnamon
Adopt an anti-inflammatory diet
Many of the illnesses and diseases that we are required to fight off involve some part of our body being inflamed. What better way to combat sickness than addressing the problem at its source?! Adopting an anti-inflammatory diet is a huge step towards eliminating and reducing the inflammation that your body is experiencing. How do I follow an anti-inflammatory diet?
Eat these anti-inflammatory foods liberally:
- Pineapple
- Ginger
- Spinach
- Nuts
- Berries
Avoid these inflammatory foods that just cause more stress & inflammation
- Dairy – milk, cheese
- Gluten – wheat protein contained in bread, pasta, crackers, cakes
- Red meats
- Sodas/juices/sugar sweetened beverages
Getting sick is never fun, especially during the holiday season. Next time you feel like you might be getting sick, get ahead of the problem and try these simple, but effective health tactics. Have some of your own favorite natural cold and flu remedies? Share below with us!