These little miracles are part of my arsenal, whether it’s the flu, a cold, or any other annoying bug. They’re also amazing as prevention – thanks to them, I’ve avoided getting seriously sick or needing antibiotics, which I’m not particularly fond of.
Turmeric
Turmeric, with its golden powder, is packed with curcumin, a compound with anti-inflammatory effects so powerful it could rival some medications. I make a simple turmeric tea and add a squeeze of lemon to improve the flavor. To maximize its effects, you can add freshly ground black pepper, though I haven’t tried that yet – it intimidates me a little. Some people make turmeric soup or even turmeric latte with foamed milk. Let your creativity run wild – just don’t expect it to taste like a chocolate milkshake from McDonald’s. Unfortunately, it’s not.
Soluble Fiber (Psyllium)
Psyllium, often used in baking healthy bread, has another fantastic property – it helps settle things down when your stomach feels off, whether that’s due to nausea, constipation, or diarrhea. It works by supporting the good microbes in your gut, which produce anti-inflammatory compounds. Since we know that health starts in the gut, this connection isn’t all that surprising.
Mix psyllium with water and drink it up. WARNING: It swells like crazy, so be sure to drink plenty of water with it. And don’t overdo it – stick to the recommended dosage.
Sauerkraut
Sauerkraut isn’t exactly a novelty – we’ve all heard from our grandmothers that it’s a cure-all. And they were right. It’s rich in vitamins C, K, antioxidants, and probiotics. Just don’t cook it too much; make a salad instead, as prolonged cooking destroys its benefits. And please, don’t bury it in flour. Flour doesn’t offer much nutritionally and can promote inflammation in the body due to its high lectin content.
Onion
Onion is another go-to weapon from grandma’s arsenal. It contains flavonoids (natural inflammation fighters) and antibacterial properties. Slice it up, sprinkle it with sugar, and let it sit – the resulting syrup is a lifesaver for coughs and colds. Bonus: your kitchen will smell interesting for a while (not everyone will love it).
Kefir
Kefir is a probiotic powerhouse. It supports healthy digestion, which is essential when you’re sick, and also provides B vitamins, calcium, and magnesium to help your nervous system. Illness doesn’t just take a toll on your body; your nerves feel it too.
Clove
Lastly – clove. Usually reserved for mulled wine, this little spice is a secret weapon, especially for women’s “lower regions.” Clove has antimicrobial properties and contains eugenol, which helps reduce pain. So if blowing your nose leaves you feeling unwell not just above but also below, clove might just save your day.
Let’s give a big thanks to our grandmothers, who knew these treasures well. And if your grandma has any magical tips of her own, let me know in the comments! ❤️
