5 Tips for getting though Cold and Flu Season

It’s been a hot minute since I have done a blog post, but now I’m back with 5 more wholesome tips to add to your healing toolbox!

Cold and Flu Season has arrived. The flu already hit me hard, and after two weeks, I think I am finally getting over the hump. For those with chronic illness, boosting the immune system is especially important, but these 5 tips can be used by anyone seeking to avoid being down and out this holiday season.

1. Elderberry Syrup

Elderberries are both anti-viral and anti-bacterial, making them ideal to fight off both the flu and/or a cold. Additionally, they are high in Vitamin C and antioxidants, which helps boost your immune system and combat damage caused by oxidative stress.

Make Your Own Elderberry Syrup:

Ingredients:

¾ cup dried elderberries

3 cups water

Optional:

¼ cup raw honey (wait until last if adding so that it is not heated)

1 cinnamon stick

Directions:

Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and cook on medium-high heat for 45 minutes to 1 hour. The mixture should be thick and reduced by half. Let cool. Strain the syrup into a bowl, pressing the juice out of the berries. Remove the whole pieces of berries and whisk in the honey and pour into a jar.

Take 1-2 Tbsp. per day to help boost your immune system!

2. Infrared Sauna

Infrared saunas are known for their incredible detoxing benefits. These saunas use light to create heat, and in addition to helping with many chronic conditions, can also help your body reduce its viral load. By sweating you are eliminating toxins within your body that may be inhibiting you from fighting off viruses and infection. Saunas offer a deeper sweat than that of exercise alone; combine the two for a double dose of immune-boosting goodness.

3. Vitamin D

Vitamin D, also known as the sunshine hormone, is essential for proper immune function. Research has shown that increasing Vitamin D3 levels (not D2) when you have a viral illness such as the flu can actually increase your chances of fighting off the virus faster. Ask your doctor about increasing your vitamin D levels and check out these two articles about the amazing healing benefits of Vitamin D:

Can Vitamin D3 Heal Autoimmune Diseases?

Vitamin D Protects Against Colds and Flu, finds major global study — ScienceDaily

4. Take an Epsom Salt bath.

Epsom salts have profound effects on your health. Not only is it an excellent form of self-care to help you reduce stress and muscle tension, but it can also help your body fight off viral and bacterial infections. “Soaking in Epsom salt helps spur a process called vasodilation, which increases white blood cell production and helps the body fight illnesses quicker.” (Home, 2018). Adding essential oils to your bath will only increase the benefits. I like to add Frankincense, Ginger, Lavender, and Eucalyptus. Combined, these oils help to boost cellular function, increase respiratory function, and have antiviral and antibacterial properties. Of course, I always recommend finding an essential oil blend that works best for you. If you have any questions about what oils to use, when, and how much, please send me a message or comment your questions below!

5. Chyawanprash

Now you’re probably thinking “what? Morgan…now you’ve officially gone insane” but hear me out. Chyawanprash is an ancient Ayurvedic jam that has been used for centuries to promote overall health and wellbeing. The jam is basically an avenue to get healing herbs into your body. “The primary action of chyawanprash is to bolster the immune system and to support the body’s natural ability to produce hemoglobin and white blood cells. Amalaki (the main ingredient in chyawanprash) aids in the elimination of ama (toxins) and supports the blood, the liver, the spleen, and the respiratory system; it therefore nourishes and protects the body’s natural defense systems. Chyawanprash also builds ojas—the essence of immunity and youthfulness” (Chyawanprash, 2018).

You can buy Chyawanprash HERE

In addition to these tips, always remember to get plenty of rest, continuously sip fluids, and don’t forget to gently move your body to get your lymph system operating.

Do you have any tips for overcoming cold and flu season? Share them in the comments below!