Good News for Tea Drinkers

Here’s some good news for tea drinkers during this cold and flu season. In its purest form (meaning it contains no additives), green tea, black tea and white tea are among the healthiest beverages on the planet, says nutritional therapy consultant Julie Folsom.

Tea is loaded with theanine, an ingredient that occurs naturally in tea. Theanine helps boost the body’s immune system, which means drinking tea throughout the day could help your body fight cold and flu symptoms before they hit. In fact, Harvard University researchers found that drinking five cups of black tea a day played a role in increasing the body’s immune system after just two weeks.  So if you aren’t currently drinking tea, it might be worth a try.

If you’re reading this article and thinking, “I already have a cold!” Never fear. Drinking hot tea even after cold symptoms have surfaced is still beneficial. Tea is soothing and can help promote faster recovery time. Pair a cup of tea with a spoonful of honey and you’ll find soothing relief from a nagging cough or an irritated, sore throat, as well.

Drinking Kombucha Can Boost the Immune System

A product that may be less familiar to some of our readers is Kombucha, a fermented drink usually made with black or green teas. It contains several health boosting ingredients that can aid in preventing and relieving the symptoms of colds and flus.

“The tea is fermented using good bacteria and yeast. The end product is effervescent and contains vinegar, B-vitamins, enzymes, probiotics and a high concentration of acids that can help support the body’s immune system, among other things,” Julie says.

Apple Cider Vinegar May Reduce Sinus Drainage & Clear Out Mucus

This one’s an oldie but a goodie. Housewives all over the world have touted the wonders of vinegar as a cleaning and cooking ingredient for centuries. However, in these modern times, many of us have lost touch with the health benefits of this natural ingredient. A tablespoon of apple cider vinegar mixed with a tablespoon of salt dissolved in water can actually aid in soothing a cough or sore throat.

“There are several scientific findings to support claims that vinegar can help all sort of health problems,” says Julie. Those benefits include balancing pH levels to help rid the body of cold and flu germs, soothing sore throats, alleviating sinus drainage and it’s been helpful in thinning mucus.

If you’re prone to stomach problems, you should consult your doctor before trying vinegar as a remedy for cold or flu symptoms, as the acidity of vinegar can sometimes irritate sensitive digestive systems.

Regardless of whether you want to avoid a cold or the flu, or simply need a break from the symptoms, natural remedies such as herbal teas, apple cider vinegar and Kombucha can provide much needed relief. Stop by the store to find a variety of products formulate especially to minimize cold and flu symptoms.