Not just for the soul, chicken soup contains cysteine, an amino acid that thins the mucus in the lungs, reducing some of the 'cloggy' symptoms of a cold (Winter R. A Consumer's Guide to Medicines in Food . New York, NY: Crown Trade Paperbacks 1995;167-68.). Additionally, the brew reduces inflammation and congestion, and provides much-needed rehydration. Make chicken soup with real stock if possible—chicken and vegetable stock is rich in nutrients. Onions and garlic are excellent immunity-boosting additions, as is celery, which promotes sleep.
Hot Lemon Drink with Ginger and Honey
Freshly-squeezed lemon juice contains a healthy dose of vitamin C, commonly taken in supplement form to treat colds. Adding fresh grated root ginger helps to relieve nausea, suppress coughs and settle the stomach. Honey adds sweetness, and, according to the Archives of Adolescent and Pediatric Medicine (June 2007), is more effective than DM cough syrup for treating coughs. Manuka honey containing UMF is the most beneficial type of honey for health purposes (Molan, P. C. (2000) "Selection of honey for use as a wound dressing." Primary Intention (The Australian Journal of Wound Management) 8 (3): 87-92.).
To make the drink, pour boiling water over 1 Tbsp grated root ginger and the juice of one lemon. Stir in a few teaspoons of honey to taste. Strain the ginger out if desired.
Spicy Foods
Curries and chilli will not actually cure the common cold--indeed, time alone can really cure the disease--but the spices can help relieve some of the symptoms by clearing out the sinuses. A dripping nose is not usually a welcome side effect of Indian cuisine, but it can be useful for clogged-up cold sufferers. Add ginger, onion and garlic to your curry for best results—or combine spices with the healing power of chicken soup by creating a spicy version!
Licorice or Anise
Anise cookies or licorice sticks may help to relieve congestion. Both licorice and anise extracts are used in congestion-relieving medication. Flavoured eating licorice such as raspberry or green apple varieties may contain licorice extract, but are not as beneficial as the strong black licorice.
Elderflower, Green or Black Tea
Drinking five cups of tea a day is reputed to significantly enhance the immune system, helping to fight off colds. Try flavoring tea with honey, ginger or lemon to enhance its therapeutic effects.
Elderflowers are an age-old remedy for colds and flu. They can be taken as a tisane, cordial or syrup, or even as elderflower wine.
Garlic
Now considered a superfood, garlic is antifungal, antibiotic, germicidal and beneficial to the cardiovascular system (Lumchuan Burright, The Garlic Lady, sourced 22/06/08). Its health benefits are numerous, but cold sufferers are most likely to welcome garlic for its ability to clear mucusy lungs and sinuses. Ideally, garlic should be crushed to release its aromatic oils and eaten raw; however, even the cooked version is beneficial. Alternatively, garlic capsules can be purchased which are odourless, or a garlic tea can be made by simmering crushed cloves in water for twenty minutes.
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