The Cold and Flu Brew: A Holistic Remedy

The Cold and Flu Brew by the Centre of Holistic Excellence is a powerful and natural remedy designed to help fight off colds and flu. This brew is not only easy to make and affordable, but its effectiveness is often underrated. Here’s a detailed look at the nutritional and therapeutic benefits of each ingredient from both a supplement and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective:

Ingredients and Their Benefits

1. Fresh Ginger (6 cm)

• Nutritional Facts: Ginger is rich in gingerol, which has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. It also contains vitamins B6 and C, potassium, magnesium, and manganese.
• Supplement Perspective: Ginger supplements are commonly used to reduce nausea, improve digestion, alleviate pain, and combat inflammation.
• TCM Perspective: In TCM, ginger is considered a warming herb that helps expel cold, stimulate circulation, and support the digestive system. It’s used to relieve symptoms of the common cold, flu, and respiratory issues by promoting sweating and detoxification.

1. Onion (1 sliced)

• Nutritional Facts: Onions are a good source of vitamins C and B6, folate, and potassium. They also contain antioxidants like quercetin, which help fight inflammation and boost the immune system.
• Supplement Perspective: Onion extracts and supplements provide antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory benefits, supporting respiratory health.
• TCM Perspective: Onions are used in TCM to promote sweating, eliminate pathogens, and support lung health. They are believed to help clear phlegm and improve breathing.

1. Orange or Lemon (1 sliced)

• Nutritional Facts: Both oranges and lemons are rich in vitamin C, which is essential for a strong immune system. They also provide dietary fiber, folate, and potassium.
• Supplement Perspective: Vitamin C supplements are widely recognized for their immune-boosting properties and their role in reducing the duration and severity of colds.
• TCM Perspective: Citrus fruits like oranges and lemons are used in TCM to clear heat, resolve phlegm, and promote the movement of qi (energy). They help to moisten the lungs and alleviate coughs.

1. Cinnamon Stick (2 large pieces)

• Nutritional Facts: Cinnamon is rich in cinnamaldehyde, which has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. It also contains small amounts of calcium, iron, and manganese.
• Supplement Perspective: Cinnamon supplements are used to regulate blood sugar levels, reduce inflammation, and enhance immune function.
• TCM Perspective: In TCM, cinnamon is considered a warming herb that invigorates circulation, dispels cold, and strengthens yang energy. It is used to treat cold-related conditions, improve digestion, and alleviate pain.

1. Cloves (5 pieces)

• Nutritional Facts: Cloves contain eugenol, which has potent anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. They also provide vitamins C and K, fiber, and manganese.
• Supplement Perspective: Clove supplements are used to support digestive health, reduce inflammation, and combat infections.
• TCM Perspective: Cloves are used in TCM to warm the kidneys, fortify yang, and treat cold-related conditions. They help relieve nausea, improve digestion, and alleviate respiratory symptoms.

1. Fresh Turmeric (2 cm)

• Nutritional Facts: Turmeric is rich in curcumin, which has strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It also contains vitamins C, E, and K, along with iron, magnesium, and potassium.
• Supplement Perspective: Turmeric supplements, especially those standardized to contain high levels of curcumin, are used to reduce inflammation, support joint health, and boost the immune system.
• TCM Perspective: In TCM, turmeric is used to invigorate blood, promote qi circulation, and alleviate pain. It’s employed to treat conditions involving inflammation and stagnation, such as arthritis and respiratory issues.

Preparation Instructions

To prepare the Cold and Flu Brew, bring the following ingredients to a boil in a liter of water:

• 6 cm of fresh ginger 🫚 (sliced)
• 1 onion 🌰 (sliced)
• 1 orange or lemon (sliced)
• 2 large pieces of cinnamon stick
• 5 cloves
• 2 cm of fresh turmeric (sliced)

Drink 1 cup every 4 hrs

Health Benefits of the Cold and Flu Brew

1. Immune Boosting: The high vitamin C content from citrus fruits and the antimicrobial properties of ginger, onion, and cloves help strengthen the immune system and fight off infections.
2. Anti-inflammatory: Turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon all have powerful anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms such as sore throat and joint pain.
3. Digestive Support: Ginger and cloves aid digestion and help alleviate nausea, making this brew soothing for the stomach.
4. Respiratory Relief: Onion and ginger can help clear respiratory passages, reduce phlegm, and ease coughing.

5.Warming and Circulatory Benefits: Cinnamon and ginger promote circulation and provide a warming effect, which is particularly beneficial during the cold winter months.

By incorporating these ingredients into your daily routine, you can naturally enhance your body’s defenses and improve overall health during the cold and flu season.