Its that time of year again when the body will succumb to the common cold with sneezes and sniffles a plenty. And for centuries spices have been used as natural 'folk' remedies to help ward off some of the effects of cold & flu.
Ayurveda recommends taking cardamom, ginger, black pepper and cinnamon in equal parts as a tea.
Cloves can help respiratory problems associated with coughs and throat infections
Cardamom tea can be taken as a bed time drink to clear nasal congestion & induces sleep.
Ginger helps fight throat and chest infections with its anti-inflammatory properties.
Fennel is a natural expectorant, and can help clear chest congestion and soothe a persistent cough.
Turmeric is a natural antibiotic. A pinch of turmeric added to a teaspoon of honey or a cup of hot milk helps to relieve headache, cold and throat infections.
I'm not sure if the above have been scientifically proven to work but its definitely worth a go - mainly as a warming tea with a dash of honey to sooth the aches.
PS the above images are my own and have not been dragged off an image library or Google
