Herbs That Can Boost Your Immune System This Winter
For many of us, the winter months mean stuffy noses and colds. And while you might first run to the medicine cabinet to cure your symptoms, you may find your kitchen holds some natural preventative and soothing herbal remedies to boost your immune system.
Garlic
This onion species not only adds an intense flavor to a meal, but it’s also an immune boosting superstar according to WebMD. For centuries, people used garlic as a health elixir. It’s no wonder! One clove contains 5 mg of calcium, 12 mg of potassium, and over than 100 sulfuric compounds; all powerful forces against bacteria and infections. Who cares about bad breath when you feel great all winter?
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Ginger
Ginger not only makes your food taste pungent and spicy, but according to a study, it also comes loaded with immune-boosting benefits. The root is not only an antibacterial but it has anti-inflammatory effects that raise the immune system. Throw some in your stir fry or add a little in your tea to stay healthy.
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Cayenne Pepper
When the weather gets cold, heat things up with some spicy cayenne pepper. The herb contains the chemical capsaicin, according to Healthline, a stimulant that builds up resistance during the beginning stages of a cold.
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Horseradish
This controversial condiment might not be for the faint of heart with its robust, pungent flavor. But add it to your foods, and you could keep away the sniffles all season long. The root treats bacterial infections in the respiratory tract (and urinary bladder, too). It also helps regulate human immune cells. Toss it in your bloody mary or serve it in your cocktail sauce with shrimp.
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Onion
One of the most prolific of all household ingredients also helps fight the cold. Onions come packed with immune-boosting nutrients like selenium, sulfur compounds, zinc, and vitamin C. So break out the onions to stay healthy this winter.
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Fire Cider Immunity Booster
Want to pack in all the amazing immunity boosters into one powerful punch? Take preemptive action against the cold this winter with Fire Cider. Herbalists at eatingbirdfood.com mix together apple cider vinegar, horseradish, ginger, garlic, onion, cayenne pepper, and honey in a jar and let it sit for 4-6 weeks. Strain the concoction and finally, you’re left with a powerful elixir to keep you healthy throughout the winter months (or any time of year). Take a tablespoon several times a day when you feel a cold coming on to boost immunity.
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