We’re in the cold and flu season, and this year it’s a HOT topic for many of us. But fear not, there are things that you can do, right now, from the comfort of your home. Considering a Traditional Chinese Medical perspective can help.
The following are different at-home Immune Optimizing recipes that you can make to help your body navigate this season of cold, flu, and virus.
SINUS & NASAL IRRIGATION
Ingredients: 8 oz squeeze bottle, 1 tsp sea salt, warm water
Preparation: Warm the water and salt (ensure it’s not too warm or this may cause nasal irritation)
Setting: Bend over your sink and look straight down at the sink basin while turning your head to a 45-degree angle. Tip the squeeze bottle into your nostril until the liquid runs through your sinuses and leaves the other nostril. (Search “Neti Pot” Instructions online for more detailed instructions).
CAYENNE, HONEY & LEMON TEA
Ingredients: 1 whole lemon, 1 tsp cayenne pepper, 1 tbsp honey, 3 ½ cups water
Preparation: Boil the above ingredients together for upwards of 10 minutes and strain when finished
Setting/Frequency: Drink this tea three times per day.
DANDELION SMOOTHIE
Ingredients: 1 head of cabbage, 2 cucumbers, 2 oranges, and 1 cup of dandelion greens.
Preparation: Juice the above ingredients and pour them into a glass
Setting/Frequency: Drink 3 glasses daily
ANTIOXIDANT-RICH NUT MIX
Ingredients: Pine nuts, goji Berries, blueberries (dried), and Brazil nuts
Preparation: Mix together each ingredient to taste preference
Setting/Frequency: Eat once daily as a snack, keep the recommended calorie count in mind with consumption of this mixture.
Keep in mind that there are various ways you can take care of your body in order to bolster your immune health the best chance at fighting illnesses and functioning properly. These include avoiding smoking and taking drugs (that aren’t prescribed by a doctor), which are known for depleting the body’s qi and weakening it. Additionally, keep your emotions in check, negative emotions, stress, and anxiety can suppress immune function. Do your best to remain optimistic and keep a positive attitude with everything going on in the world around us. Start with the basics – exercise, eat right, sleep and stay hydrated to maintain your body’s balance.
Give Heidi call today at (218) 724-3400 to learn more about how Traditional Chinese Medicine can help you stay healthy!
