Chilly weather brings on some really serious colds and respiratory infections. This decoction is beneficial if taken at the very beginning. It is not suitable for the weak, elderly or very young children because it brings on heavy sweating which helps detox the system and they need gentler methods to fight it. While taking this, it is very important to increase fluids and rest. Sipping warm water every half hour from a thermos is helpful.
COMMON COLD & FLU BREW RECIPE
6 spring onions, white parts, coarsely chopped
½ a thumb sized piece of fresh ginger
2 sprigs fresh mint
3 lemons, halved
2 whole garlic bulbs (not cloves), chopped in half
(Honey can be added if desired. This can also be used over steamed vegetables for a few days)
Simmer all the ingredients except the mint in 2 litres of water, till reduced by half. Add mint, re-boil briefly and drink 1 cup whilst warm. This should make 3 cups which are then drunk over 24 hours. Have a hot shower, hop into bed, use plenty of blankets and sweat it out. Increase your fluid intake. Change clothing as it becomes saturated. Apply tiger balm on the centre of the chest, bottom of the feet and pulse points which will increase the effect. Take Vitamin C every 2-3 hours and a zinc tablet as well as a multi-vitamin and olive leaf extract (follow instructions on dosage). Eat simple food for the next few days, especially steamed greens; whilst avoiding dairy, deep fried foods, sugary foods and icy drinks (straight from the fridge).
Dressing warmly is even more important at the beginning of the season as we are more susceptible to chills than later when our body has adjusted to the colder weather. The grandmother wisdom is to protect the upper body a with scarf and a hat as the temperature drops and winds increase. Our innate ability to regulate and protect our bodies is weakened by lack of contact with each other, so this season is very important to gain strength and support our health .