People may debate whether or not garlic fights a cold or the flu, but I have seen over and over again how it keeps my immune system strong and stops a cold in its sneaky little tracks. There is science behind my claim and experience – allicin, the main biologically active component of garlic, blocks enzymes that play a role in bacterial and viral infections.
Without a doubt, you will only do right by yourself to include more garlic (cooked and raw) in your diet, especially during this time of year! My cold medicine of choice is always one finely chopped clove of garlic and a tall glass of water. You always have the option of chewing it (which is definitely the way to go if you want to keep people, as well as germs away). Otherwise, just chop it up finely and swallow it like you would any other vitamin/pill. *I would recommend taking raw garlic after you’ve eaten, especially if you have a sensitive stomach.
1. Take off your hat, headband, helmet, ponytail holder, goggles, glasses, or anything else you might have on your head! These items can cause external compression headaches and often the headache will go away shortly after removing the item of head gear.
2. Apply pressure to the acupressure point in the webbing between your thumb and index finger to help ease the pain of a headache (*this is not an acupressure point that pregnant women should press). Also, gently pressing the back of your neck with three fingers on each side can also help relieve muscle tension that might be causing the headache.
3. Apply a cold compress to your forehead and/or the back of your neck. Add a couple drops of peppermint oil to a wet washcloth and put it in the freezer for a few minutes (I love doing this!). The scent of peppermint is known for providing headache relief.
4. Drink some H20! A very common cause of headaches is dehydration.
5. RELAX. Often, we hold a lot of tension in jaws so unclench your jaw, relax your face (and the rest of your body) and take some really good deep breaths.
I haven’t tried this one yet, but I recently came across this possible natural remedy for hay fever/allergies. It definitely sounds like a great natural immune booster!
Combine:
- 1 Tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
- 1 Tbsp Honey (preferably raw)
- 8 oz water
Take 2 -3 times per day.
**Honey should not be consumed by infants up to one year old.
