Winter is here and with it comes colds, flu and stubborn viruses. In addition, if you have toddlers it can be almost impossible to stay healthy.
Blocked airways can cause coughing and breathing difficulties due to mucus.
Mucus is secreted by the respiratory tract as a tool for keeping bacteria and viruses away.
But it can also cause problems.
Too much of it in your lungs can cause fever, fatigue and breathing difficulties.
But the worst thing is if it sits in your airways.
Fortunately, there are a lot of things you can do in order to counteract the problem and keep your trachea clear of any nastiness during winter.
Ginger
According to studies ginger has a whole host of health benefits, and helping to shift a cough is one of them. It also kills germs, which is perfect when you have a cold.
Try to eat 3-4 slices of ginger a day. If you find it too strong to eat as it is, you can brew a cup of ginger tea instead.
You need:
- 6-7 slices of fresh ginger
- 1 tsp ecological honey
- 1 tsp black peppercorns
- 400 ml water
Follow these steps:
- Boil the water and add the ginger and peppercorns. Cover with a lid and let simmer on low heat for 5-7 mins
- Remove from heat, drain and add honey
- Be careful not to burn yourself when you drink the tea
Honey and lemon
We all know that lemons are packed full of vitamin C, which works wonders for our immune systems. Studies show that honey can work just as well as prescription cough medicine. Honey has anti-bacterial properties and is also good for your airways. Together they work miracles against sore and inflamed throats.
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You need:
- 1 tbsp ecological honey
- 2 tbsp pressed lemon juice
Follow these steps:
- Dissolve the honey in the lemon juice and drink three times a day.
Turmeric
Turmeric contains the substance curcumin which also has antibacterial properties and is good for irritated airways, according to Turmeric for health.
You need:
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- ½ tsp salt
- 200 ml hot water
Follow these steps:
- Our the temeric and salt into a glass of warm water and stir until the salt has dissolved
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Gargle the mixture for a few minutes 3-4 times a day. It kills bacteria, counteracts infections and reduces mucus formation.
Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has a whole range of health benefits, accoring to DIY Remedies, both in terms of general health and weight loss. The syrup in the vinegar kills bacteria and also regulates the PH balance that reduces mucus formation.
You need:
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 200 ml hot water
Follow these steps:
-
Mix the vinegar into a glass of water and gargle for as long as you can
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Repeat daily or when needed
Steam bath
Steaming sore throats used to be a widely used remedy, but with today’s range of medications, many have forgotten about it. However, it works still works wonders – sometimes better than anything else.
You need:
- A few twigs of fresh thyme
- Fresh tarragon
- 2-3 litres water.
Follow these steps:
-
Boil the water in a saucepan with the fresh herbs. If you have it, you can also add a few drops of eucalyptus oil
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Hold your head over the pan and cover your head and the pan with a towel so that the steam does not disappear on the sides
- Breathe in the steam for as long as you can. Repeat as needed
EXTRA TIPS:
- Stop smoking
- Don’t drink cold drinks, room temperature is better for your health
- Avoid strong chemicals such as cleaning chemicals and paint. They can have a negative effect on your nose, throat and lungs
- Eat spicy foods with chilli and ginger, they’re good for clearing phlegm
- Don’t swallow phlegm, gurgle with salt water and spit it out
Remember, it is always good to consult your doctor if you feel very hungry or can’t get rid of the symptoms.
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