Benefits of Honey, Cinammon, Ginger and More

A few years ago I decided I wanted to try to go more natural with some of the everyday sniffles, sneezes, coughs and scratchy throat remedies. Part of the reason was trying to cut down on some of the chemicals within my body, but two of the main reasons for this were my two daughters. I wanted to be able to give them something that tasted good, I knew where it came from and what was in it. A friend of mine who is a therapist from the Middle East loves to share her natural remedies that her family has been using for years, of which I will share with you below.

What ingredients do you need?

Good local honey, raw if possible

Ground cinnamon

Cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes

Fresh lemons

Ginger Root

Turmeric, root or powder

Honey and Cinnamon

Cinnamon is one of the oldest spices in the world and contains an essential oil in the bark and when that oil is paired with honey (that has natural enzymes that release hydrogen peroxide) are anti-microbial foods that help to stop the growth of bacteria and fungus.

This powerful duo is also known to help with

lowering cholesterol

fighting colds

upset stomachs

flu

sore throats

coughs

skin infections (when applied topically)

hangovers

For the common colds, cough, sore throat simply take one tablespoon of warm honey with 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon and mix together. Swallow two to three times daily for three days.

If you would rather drink the honey and cinnamon, it will also aid in cleansing the bladder and helping with digestion.

For the drink

1 cup hot water

2 tablespoon honey

1 tablespoon cinnamon

Mix the honey and cinnamon into the water and drink slowly like tea.

*Do not microwave the honey as the high heat kills the enzymes within the honey.

Detox and Immunity Booster - Ginger, Lemon and Cayenne

Ginger, lemon and cayenne are three powerful herbal remedies when taking alone or together. Lemon is a good source of vitamin c and potassium and when combined with ginger can increase circulation and aid with good digestion. Ginger has been a folk remedy for treating nausea for years (ask any pregnant woman with morning sickness). It also is known to increase metabolism. Cayenne contains a substance that is helpful with inflammation and what gives it the kick of heat has a property that helps to fight colds, detoxify the body, boost immunity and even aids in weight loss. It literally warms you from the inside out.

Daily Detox Tea

1 cup of hot water

1/2 inch peeled ginger root, grated or sliced

1/2 fresh lemon

1/4 -1 teaspoon cayenne depending on spice level

Place a steeper or a very smaller strainer in the water and steep for 3-5 minutes. Remover steeper and enjoy. If you prefer a more sweet drink add 1 teaspoon of local honey. You can also add 1 teaspoon of turmeric (acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent.) or activated charcoal.

We also recommend you visit in Indianapolis:  Ezra's Enlighted Cafe, Natural Born Juicers or the Garden Table for good, clean, natural food and drink that include many of these herbal ingredients.