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We’ve fully entered the cold and flu season, but that does not mean the cold and flu season needs to enter your house! Help keep winter bugs away and boost your immune system with our Immuni-tea—a simple recipe for an immune-boosting tea using ingredients you may already have in your kitchen cabinet.
What Goes in an Immune Boosting Tea?
The good news is that if you don't already have them, most of these items are readily available.
Cinnamon
This spice is a staple in nearly every home, but few people realize its full health potential. Cinnamon is a warming herb that contains natural antimicrobial, antibiotic, antifungal, and antiviral properties, largely due to the presence of cinnamaldehyde, one of cinnamon's main active components. Studies have also suggested that cinnamon may protect regulatory T cells, or “Tregs,” which regulate immune responses.
Cloves
The common clove contains eugenol, an effective compound for fighting against bacteria, fungi, and viruses. The clove's anti-viral and blood purification properties work to decrease blood toxicity and increase disease resistance by stimulating white blood cells.
Sage
Sage is most commonly thought of for the Thanksgiving turkey, but the health benefits of this culinary staple go beyond flavor. Packed with flavonoids, such as apigenin, luteolin, and diosmetin, Sage packs a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory punch while protecting against infections and supporting a healthy immune system.
Citrus Peel
If you’re like most people, chances are you peel your oranges and throw away the rind, opting for the juicy fruit within. But think twice next time and consider saving it. Packed with Vitamic C and immune-boosting flavonoids, you may just be throwing away the most valuable part of the fruit.
Juniper Berries
The little blue berry found on the Juniper tree is high in antioxidants and vitamins A and C. It also contains an antiviral compound known as deoxypodophyllotoxin. Daily intake of Juniper Berries has been shown to reduce the chances of cold and flu infection by up to 65%!
How to Make Immuni-Tea
This tea is simple to make with basic ingredients.
Ingredients:
1 tsp of dried juniper berries, ground
1 tsp dried sage
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground orange peel
1 tsp whole cloves
1 cup of boiling water
1 tsp of honey or sweetener of choice (optional)
Directions:
Add all ingredients except the honey or sweetener (if using) to a small bowl. Stir to combine. Add ½ tablespoon to a tea ball and seep (covered) in boiling water for 15 minutes.
Remove the tea ball and enjoy your Immuni-tea as is, or with a spoonful of raw honey.
Store the unused portion in an air-tight container in a cool, dark place.
*Note: always cover medicinal teas to prevent your essential compounds from escaping in the released steam.
A Quick Disclaimer
Just because something is “natural” does not always mean it is safe for every person. When it comes to herbal medicine, many plants should be avoided when pregnant or nursing, and some can cause extreme interactions with prescription and over-the-counter medicine.
One herbal ingredient in this recipe, Juniper Berries, is considered generally safe for most people. Still, there can be allergic reactions or drug interactions, and they can cause kidney issues if used in large amounts over extended periods. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid juniper berries as they may cause contractions.
Before using herbal preparations, always do your research, speak to a professional regarding any significant concerns, and never fail to seek medical advice when needed.
Closing Thoughts
If your first thought when cold or flu symptoms arise is to reach for over-the-counter products, consider this: Every year, billions of dollars are spent on products that suppress symptoms and do little to promote health and healing. This year, when the first signs of illness set in, head to your spice rack before heading to the pharmacy.
If you make a batch of our Immuni-Tea, be sure to tell us all about it in the comments below or tag us in your Instagram pics with @thisunboundlife.blog. Until next time,
