Here in our family we don’t get sick often at all, but when we do, we prefer to let the body fight illness naturally whenever we can – we don’t immediately turn to medicine OR vitamin.
There are times when illness makes it hard to find rest (coughing is a great example!) – both myself and kids enjoy drinking Wellness Tea, and if our kids do come down with something, usually the best way to fight that spell is through lots of sleep, and water.
One thing we do have good success with is our own homemade syrup to help ease the coughing – and although we don’t have to use it much, when we do it is nice to have the opportunity to give the kids something that’ll help them rest better.
So what causes the common cold?
Many people assume that viruses are the culprit.. but they are actually not the “root” of your cold. Your health is controlled by several factors… and the root of a cold is actually in these areas below:
- Eating too much sugar, too many starches
- Lack of rest
- Emotional stresses in your life that are causing disparage to your immune system
Unfortunately in most cases, antibiotics will just kill the good bacteria in your intestines – when you do that, you upset your body’s balance that can make food allergies more likely. Overuse of antibiotics can cause the body to change so much that antibiotics don’t work as effectively against bad bacteria in the future.
Although the doctors are sometimes quick to prescribe, sometimes it’s the parents who pressure doctors into what they feel is an issue their children need antibiotics for.
It’s great to have alternatives to antibiotics – for those of us who try to stay clear of doctor visits & OTC medicines, opting to find ways to help your children (or, yourself) fight off the illness on their own is great.
This Immune Boosting Syrup is great for doing that – it’s relatively easy to make as well and you can keep it in the fridge or make a smaller amount to prevent yourself from having too much leftover.
Ginger: Helps support the immune system
Raw Honey: Has powerful antiviral and antimicrobial properties. It is shown to be just as effective in alleviating coughs as over the counter cough medicine. It’s also just as great for allergies. Take a few teaspoons of raw honey each day to alleviate allergies or give your immune system a boost.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Has antiseptic, antiviral and antibacterial properties, in addition to a large number of amino acids, vitamins and minerals, which will help give your immune system a boost.
Apple Cider Vinegar and Honey Immune Booster
- 2 Tbsp Raw Honey
- 2 Tbsp Water
- 1 Tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
- 1/4 tsp Ground Ginger
Place everything in a small jar with a lid, and shake to combine. The mixture will keep for a few days in the refrigerator – but i wouldn’t make too much… it’s most effective when you make a new batch every few days.
Give your children 1 spoonful every few hours; 2 spoonfuls for yourself – just remember to avoid giving children under 1 year of age honey.