The air is getting crisper, the leaves are changing colors, and we’re all pulling out our sweaters and scarves from the closet. Autumn has set in and we can already hear whispers of the winter that is following in its tracks. We all know what that means: Cold and flu season. Do yourself a favor and prepare this Nan’s cold and flu remedy ahead of time. The next time you feel a niggle in your throat or you start sneezing more often than you should, have some. You’ll be back to your regular, healthy self in no time.
A Comforting DIY Remedy for Cold and Flu Season
If you’re looking for a natural remedy to with with the symptoms of what ails you, look no fruther. Whether you’re coming down with a cold or the flu, this nana’s simple and soothing recipe will lift your spirits and help you feel better in no time. This comforting remedy is made from lemons, ginger, honey, apple cider vinegar, and water. The combination of sweet and sour with a hint of spice is a perfect way to soothe a sore throat and clear up a stuffy nose.
Read: Be Ready for Winter: Make Instant Pot Elderberry Syrup In 20 Minutes
How To Make It
This cold and flu remedy is simple and relatively hands-off. To make this remedy, simply dump the ingredients in a slow cooker and fill it with water until it nearly reaches the top. Give the mixture a gentle stir to combine everything, and set the slow cooker to low heat. Let the remedy simmer and infuse for 4-6 hours until the flavors meld together.
Once done, carefully strain the liquid using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any solids. Transfer the strained liquid to a jar or bottle and let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating it. Find the full, step-by-step recipe below:
Ingredients
- 8 lemons, cut into slices
- 1/2 portion of ginger root, roughly diced
- 1/2 cup of honey
- 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar
- water
Directions
- Dump ingredients in a slow cooker.
- Fill the slow cooker with water until it reaches near the top.
- Give the mixture a gentle stir to combine all the ingredients.
- Set the slow cooker to a low heat setting and cover it with a lid.
- Allow the remedy to simmer and infuse for approximately 4-6 hours or until the flavors meld together.
- Once the desired infusion time has elapsed, carefully strain the mixture using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any solids.
- Transfer the strained liquid into a clean container, such as a jar or bottle.
- Let the remedy cool down to room temperature before refrigerating it.
When you’re feeling unwell, take a small amount of the remedy and mix it with warm water to create a comforting drink. You can also spoon it directly from the jar and enjoy its soothing warmth.
Read: 3-ingredient elixir that you should make this winter to deal with Sore throat, cough, colds, and other throat conditions
The Goodness is In The Ingredients
The power of this remedy comes from the ingredients it is made of. Each of these has their unique properties to help with symptomatic relief(1):
- Lemon is a natural source of vitamin C, an antioxidant that helps boost your immune system and fight off bacteria. It also contains potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and heart rate.
- Ginger is rich in anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and stomach cramps (2).
- Honey can help relieve mild to moderate coughs, sore throats and cold symptoms. It also contains antioxidants that can boost your immune system (3).
- Apple cider vinegar can help fight off bacteria and viruses. It also contains acetic acid, which helps relieve bloating, gas, and indigestion (4).
Don’t wait until you are sick to make this easy, at-home cold and flu remedy. Whip yourself up a batch today and keep it on hand for the flu season that is already knocking at your door. You and your family will be grateful that you did!
Keep Reading: 8 Ways To Get Rid Of Phlegm And Mucus In Chest And Throat
Sources
- “Cold and Flu Home Remedies.” Healthline. Joann Jovinally. June 19, 2023.
- “How Does Ginger Help a Sore Throat?” Healthline.
- “Effectiveness of honey for symptomatic relief in upper respiratory tract infections: a systematic review and meta-analysis” BMJ Evidence-Based Medicine. August 18, 2020.
- “Apple Cider Vinegar for Colds” Healthline
Disclaimer: This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and is for information only. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about your medical condition and/or current medication. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking advice or treatment because of something you have read here.