It seems that colds and flu are really starting to affect people this winter. I’m hearing stories left and right about people who are ill.
The first step to prevent illness is always to eat a balanced diet, get enough sleep, and to avoid unnecessary stress. And even if you are exposed to germs or are living the busy go-go-go life, you can often still prevent illness by enhancing your white blood cell count with echinacea, or by using the healing and preventative power of honey and onions.
Unfortunately, there is still a risk that we or our loved ones will come down with a full-fledged illness.
On the bright side, there are many herbal remedies that have been passed down for centuries to help us get better more quickly.
One is this “Be Well” tea that helps to aid in relaxation, hydration, and in producing a mild perspiration that can assist in reducing a fever.
The ingredients include: peppermint (Mentha x piperita), elder flower (Sambucus nigra), and yarrow flower and leaf (Achillea millefolium).
Peppermint is mainly included to enhance the taste of this tea and for its uplifting aroma. However, peppermint is also used along with elder flowers and yarrow to induce a mild perspiration that can lower a fever. Elder flowers are also useful in promoting relaxation. Together, this herbal combination will be a powerful ally as you rest and recover from your cold or flu.
To make this tea, just combine equal parts of peppermint, elder and yarrow.
When you want to use the tea, steep 1 teaspoon in 1 cup water (covered) for 10 – 20 minutes. Alternatively, you could brew a larger batch by adding 4-6 tablespoons to a glass quart jar. Fill this to the top with boiling water and steep for 30 – 45 minutes before straining.
To use the tea, drink 1/2 cup every half hour until you have achieved a gentle perspiration. Once you are sweating, reduce the amount of tea to 1/2 cup every hour until your fever subsides.
Interested in having some cold and flu tea just in case? Uninterested in making your own? I’d love to help keep you healthy and so I have extra for you on my Etsy site!
Green Blessings!
*Note: I am not a doctor prescribing a treatment for your cold and/or flu. Please do your research, know your own body, and take charge of your own health. Also note that although serious complications have not been reported, yarrow is an emmenagogue that will stimulate menstruation and so it is best not to consume yarrow while pregnant.
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