This remedy is one of the best for warding off colds, the flu, or any kind of general feeling of ickiness. Not only is it chock full of anti-viral and anti-bacterial goodness, but it’s guaranteed to knock your socks off!

Ginger and cayenne are warming to your system, while onion, horseradish, and garlic help to kill any bug that is attempting to assault your body. Sage and rosemary dry up any mucus that might be tempted to drip, and your body will benefit from the boost of minerals that apple cider vinegar provides.

As scary as it sounds, it’s actually quite tasty, too.



Here’s my tried and true “Cold Kicker” recipe: 1/4 c. ginger root, freshly grated

1/4 c. onion, freshly chopped

1/4 c. fresh rosemary, chopped

1/4 c. fresh sage leaves, chopped

1/4 c. grated horseradish

4 cloves of garlic (you can up it to 6, if you feel adventurous)

2 Tbsp. ground cayenne pepper

organic apple cider vinegar to cover

Combine all the ingredients in a quart size mason jar, and fill to the top, leaving 1 inch headspace. Shake daily for two to four weeks, then strain, squeezing out all the liquid. Heat gently over heat, and add 1/4 c. of honey, stirring to dissolve. Rebottle, and use as needed to kick any feeling of sick right out of you!

I usually use 2 tablespoons in a cup of hot water, and sip it as needed. I’ve also used it in chicken broth as well, to give an extra boost of nutrition when I haven’t felt up to eating anything.

Do you have a special recipe or remedy for kicking a cold?

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Disclaimer: Although all Keeper of the Home contributors are passionate about nutrition, natural living, and alternative health issues, we are not certified nutritionists, medical doctors, or practitioners of any kind. We are not licensed to counsel anyone in medical matters, nor may we be held responsible for any course of action that you choose in regards to your own health or that of your family. Please remember that what we are sharing is the result of our own experiences and years of study, but may not necessarily be the right course of action for you. We are advocates of becoming informed, knowledgeable, and responsible for one’s own health, but our desire is not to be an authority on any matters of health for you, nor would we presume to have sufficient knowledge to do so. Our hope is that what we share may encourage you and start you on the road to doing your own research and seeking the opinions of professionals or others that you trust.

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