Herbal Teas for Colds and Flu

Hot Ginger Lemonade:
1 1/2 cups water
3 (1/4-inch) slices fresh ginger root, bruised
1/2 of a fresh lemon
1 teaspoon honey
1/4 teaspoon powdered cayenne pepper

Bring water to a boil in a glass or stainless steel pan.

Meanwhile, hit each ginger root slice gently with the broad side of a knife to break up the pulp a bit. Put the ginger in the boiling water and simmer uncovered 5 minutes.

Meanwhile, Squeeze the juice from the lemon into a cup. Add the honey and cayenne. Strain the ginger tea in to the cup, stir and sip slowly while hot.

NOTE: You may add an ounce of brandy to your bedtime dose to help ease you into sleep.

Cooling Blend:
1 teaspoon crushed dried rose hips
1 teaspoon dried peppermint leaves
1 teaspoon dried sage leaves
1 cup water, barely boiled

Place the herbs in a teapot. Pour the boiling water over the herbs, cover and steep 10 minutes. Strain and sweeten with honey to taste. Sip slowly while warm.

The rose hips deliver a large dose of vitamin C, while peppermint and sage have a cooling effect on the system. This tea is particularly helpful with feverish colds. And it tastes good!