While autumn has its charms, it can also be unkind to our health. Changeable weather, low temperatures outside, indoor heating, and the airborne viruses and bacteria can all wreak havoc. Is it possible to avoid illness and colds? Unfortunately, we can't guarantee this, but it's certainly better to take care of yourself early, as prevention is better than cure. Before reaching for another supplement, it's worth enriching your diet with a few natural ingredients that boost immunity. You probably already have most of them in your kitchen anyway.
Cleansing
For many years, rockrose was underestimated, but fortunately, its valuable properties were discovered in time. It's a very rich source of compounds that neutralize free radicals. This plant significantly strengthens the human immune system, helps fight viruses, and treat upper respiratory tract infections, which has been confirmed by research. Rockrose rarely causes side effects (e.g., a rash of blemishes), and it's virtually impossible to overdose. When buying herbs, make sure they aren't finely ground. Whole leaves sealed in a package guarantee better results. Rockrose is best consumed as a tea. Pour hot water over a tablespoon of the herb and let the infusion steep for a moment. It's best to control the strength of the infusion yourself. If the flavor isn't quite what you expect, orange or lemon slices, or a touch of honey will enhance it perfectly. Of course, the effects of the treatment will take a while to show, but it's worth the patience. By drinking cistus regularly, we will say goodbye to all kinds of infections and colds for a long time, and at the same time we will also take care of our skin, hair and nails.
Garlic
Our grandmothers used garlic; it's one of the most popular ways to boost immunity and fight all kinds of infections. Hailed as a natural antibiotic, it possesses powerful antibacterial properties. Its essential oils, rich in sulfides and the antibacterial allicin, are of greatest value. This is also responsible for its characteristic, pungent flavor. Garlic is best consumed fresh. Simply chop it finely and spread it in butter, which will also protect the stomach lining from its rather potent effects. If you're concerned about unpleasant breath, simply sprinkle parsley on your sandwich, which neutralizes the garlic aroma and is also packed with valuable vitamin C. Incorporating garlic into your diet regularly is a truly brilliant alternative to all the over-the-counter, over-the-counter immune-boosting products available from pharmacies.
Lemon
Lemons are an excellent source of vitamin C and rutin, which seals blood vessels and prevents vitamin C loss from the body. Thanks to its content, it effectively strengthens our immunity and also alleviates infections. When shopping, remember to choose fruits that are uniform in color and heavy. Don't be afraid to smell lemons; ripe lemons always smell pleasant towards the end. Also, pay attention to the smoothness of the skin; any folds indicate thicker skin, which means less juice. Contrary to popular belief, you shouldn't drink lemon with hot tea, as vitamin C is lost at such high temperatures. If you want to boost your immunity or alleviate the effects of a cold, dilute lemon juice with warm water (you can choose whole slices instead of juice) and sip throughout the day. This is equally important, as eating lemons or drinking the juice on its own, without dilution, can irritate the mucous membranes, especially if you're sick. Finally, one more tip – to get the most juice out of the lemon, roll it on the counter a few times.
Ginger
Ginger has a wide range of benefits. Primarily, it warms and strengthens the immune system. This makes it an essential ingredient for the fall and winter season! Ginger contains a vast array of essential oils, so both fresh and dried, it's excellent for combating bacteria, fungi, and viruses. It also has anti-inflammatory, disinfectant, and detoxifying properties. It's worth including ginger in your diet and consuming it not only during illness, but also as a preventative measure. It's best to wash, peel, and finely grate the rhizome. Then, transfer the mixture to an airtight container, such as a jar, and add lemon juice to prevent the ginger from drying out (it should be wet). This mixture can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Due to its sharp, distinctive flavor, ginger is easiest to enhance tea with. However, if you're a fan of spicy flavors in the kitchen, you can also pour two teaspoons of the mixture into a glass of water and drink the resulting infusion.
Onion
Onions have properties similar to garlic. They are a natural remedy for many ailments – they strengthen, disinfect, and have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and anti-rheumatic properties. When consumed prophylactically, they boost immunity and help prevent infections and colds. As a child, each of you probably drank a homemade onion concoction prepared by your mother or grandmother at least once. Onion syrup has incredible power and is also a healthy and sweet remedy that children readily accept. Simply peel and chop two onions, then sprinkle with sugar. Cover and let it sit for about 24 hours. Afterward, consume one tablespoon two or three times a day. It's worth noting that syrup isn't just for infections, but also when you feel well to boost your immunity. This treatment brings very good and, above all, visible results!
Agata Bielecka / AGU – She was supposed to be a teacher, but she became a blogger. She owns a blog available at www.agatabielecka.pl . Known online as Agu, she's passionate about cosmetics and everything related to beauty and self-care. She's obsessed with brushes, eyeshadow, and red lips. In her private life, she's a cat lover, a fan of photography, Scandinavian crime novels, austere interiors, good food, and coffee.
