Tip of the day for the rest of your days...

Cold season is around so equip yourself with these natural remedies! This tip comes from a reader request.

Cayenne pepper:

Cayenne pepper and other hot peppers contain high concentrations of capsaicin which is a compound that makes peppers spicy. The capsaicin will relieve congested nasal passages by opening and draining. 

Chicken noodle soup:

In Chinese medicine, chicken is considered a "hot" meat because of its higher cooking temperature in relation to other meats. A cold in Chinese medicine is also considered a "wind" cold which needs to be warmed. Chicken noodle will not only warm your body but also provide the necessary protein for energy, sodium for lost electrolytes and antioxidants from the soup/vegetables. (For the flu, chicken is not recommended.)

Bananas:

Bananas are packed with potassium and vitamin C. 

Dark chocolate:

In recent research, dark chocolate of 70% cacao or more has been found to suppress nerve sensitivity in the throat which reduces urge to cough. Theobromine is the active ingredient. 

Garlic:

Garlic contains allicin which is a natural decongestant and antibiotic which stimulates immune function. In high heat, much of the active ingredient is destroyed, so it is recommended that you eat the garlic raw or add it into your cooking near the end.

Oranges and other citrus fruits:

Oranges are packed with vitamin C which boosts the immune system. However, for a cold it is recommended that you use a double-boiler and steam the orange slices. This will not only give you the necessary vitamin c without high heat destroying it but will also suppress coughing. Eating raw orange with a cough will irritate your throat and induce more coughing.

Green tea:

Green tea has many healing properties and contain something called polyphenols which act as an anti-inflammatory. Use this to keep your airways clear and mucous membranes moist. Green tea will also help flush out toxins.

These are just a few of the many simple natural remedies you can use at home. Nobody likes to get sick, so make sure to take proper precautions such as frequent hand-washing. The holiday season is just around the corner! So don't get sick and enjoy it! =)