Natural Honey Cold and Flu Remedies
Healing with Honey

When you feel the first signs of a cold or flu coming on, there’s nothing more you want to do than crawl back into bed and not move again until you’re feeling better. But avoiding your day-to-day responsibilities won’t help you recover faster. So it’s vital that you try other ways to speed up the healing process and avoid missing out on important activities like work or family gatherings during this time. Here are 5 honey-based cold and flu remedies that will give you a fighting chance at beating the symptoms while still getting things done:

Honey and Brandy

Brandy is an excellent option for warming your chest and throat from the inside out. It does that by increasing the body’s temperature as a disinfectant. Adding honey to the mix makes this remedy even more potent because it coats your throat and lungs with antioxidants that fight infection. All you need to do is mix a few teaspoons of brandy and some honey in boiling water and let it cool down for a few minutes before drinking.

Honey, Ginger and Lemon

Ginger is a natural decongestant that will soothe your stuffy nose. Lemon is an antiviral agent, preventing infection from taking hold in your body. And finally, honey will coat your throat with antioxidants and help to thin out mucus. All you need to do is add 3 tablespoons of honey, 2 teaspoons of lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of grated ginger root into boiling water and let it sit for 5 minutes before drinking.

Manuka Honey

One of the best honey to take when you are suffering from a cold is Manuka honey. It has more anti-oxidant properties, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals than other types of honey, making it ideal for speeding up recovery from cold or flu. The good thing about manuka honey is Leptosperin, an active ingredient with strong anti-inflammatory effects. Manuka honey also has Methyglyoxal (MGO), which boosts immune system response and promotes tissue repair. Mixing one tablespoon of manuka honey with two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar can create a refreshing drink for sore throat relief.

Honey, Cinnamon and Apple Cider Vinegar

Cinnamon can kill the bacteria that cause illness and speeds up recovery time. Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, which kills viruses, fungi, parasites, and bacteria. The combination of honey, Cinnamon, and apple cider vinegar have high anti-inflammatory capabilities that can reduce inflammation in your throat caused by coughs, congestion, or respiratory infections. To prepare this remedy, mix one tablespoon of each ingredient with hot water and take it regularly throughout the day.

Honey and Garlic

Garlic is a natural antibiotic, antiviral, antifungal, and antiseptic agent. Mixing garlic with honey is a beautiful way to strengthen your immune system and boost the production of antibodies. Make sure you get organic honey and fresh garlic, both of which have powerful antibiotic qualities. Combine three chopped, unpeeled garlic cloves and a cup of raw honey, and simmer over medium-low heat for 10 minutes. Drink a quarter cup of the mixture twice daily

In essence, if you catch a cold or flu early enough, these 5 honey-based remedies may be just what you need to get through it. Always stay hydrated, eat healthily, and be kind to your immune system. However, if symptoms worsen and last more days, it's always best to consult your physician.