GaGa’s Flu And Cough Remedy

I make a lot of syrups, tinctures, pain rubs and I made this one after taking some Herbology classes. Since I am a GaGa (grandma)

I named it GaGa’s remedies.

The most important weapon against influenza that you can add to your herbal arsenal is elderberry extract.

Whether you are concerned with the seasonal flu or the potential of a deadly strain of influenza becoming pandemic, elderberry extract is a vital addition to your vault of flu remedies.

Unlike the highly touted flu shot, concentrated black elderberry extracts have actually been shown to be effective with all strains of the flu.

It is one of the few natural remedies that has been written up in the medical journals. The studies I’m listing here are based on black elderberry extract

(Sambucus nigra L) – name brand Sambucol.

An Ancient Panacea

The medicinal use of the elderberry is nothing new. Mentioned in ancient medicinal texts, the humble black elderberry has been used as a multi-purpose treatment for centuries. In 400 BC, Hippocrates referred to the elderberry bush as his “medicine chest” because of its varied uses, and it was mentioned several times in the writings of Pliny the Elder when he recorded the practices of the ancient Romans.

How It Works

Scientists have isolated the active compound in the elderberry. It is called Antivirin and is found in proteins of the black elderberry and is seen to have anti-viral properties potentially helping to stop the spread of the flu virus .

One study proposes that the active components in Sambucol activate the healthy immune system by increasing inflammatory cytokine production.

Effectiveness

Sambucol has been shown to reduce the symptoms and the duration of flu sufferers. It has been tested on both Influenza A and Influenza B strains. In one study it was noted that subjects taking Sambucol instead of a placebo took fewer over the counter medications to relieve symptoms like fever, aches and congestion.

There are many recipes and Tinctures I have and make.

This one contained no alcohol

GaGa’s Elderberry Syrup.

For cold and flu

Ingredients

1½ to 2 cups elderberries, dried

4 cups water, divided

4 herbal tea bags (use a cold & flu blend)

1½ -2 cups honey

1/3 cup Braggs apple cider vinegar (make sure that it contains “The Mother”)

2 lemons, juiced

Instructions

In a large saucepan add elderberries and 3 cups water.

Bring to a boil and then reduce heat to a simmer.

Simmer for 30-40 minutes or until liquid reduces by half.

Use a masher and mash the berries.

Strain into a large bowl. Set aside.

Heat remaining water and add tea bags.

Steep tea for 10-15 minutes and add to elderberry mixture.

Stir in honey, apple cider vinegar, and lemon juice until honey is well incorporated.

Taste and add more honey or lemon to suit your taste.

Pour into a jar and store in the fridge for up to 3 months. ( I’ve kept it longer though. Freeze if you’re nervous about longevity )

Take 1 tablespoon daily or at the sign of a cold. Take 2-3 times a day once a cold has set in.

Notes

* For the tea, use a blend that is for cold & flu.

I use a Triple Leaf Cold & Flu

If you prefer a thicker syrup, let the finished mixture simmer very gently on the stove until it reduces.

However, it will thicken up a bit once it has cooled off so I never simmer the finished product.

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GaGa’s Cough Remedy

Ingredients

1½ cups organic raw honey local is great but any raw honey will work.

1/4 cup organic extra virgin olive oil

4 organic lemons, juiced (the more the better)

1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1Tablespoon Braggs vinegar

Instructions

Add honey, olive oil and lemon juice, ginger and cayenne to a small pot.

Stir.

Heat over low – medium heat just until steaming, stirring.

Remove from heat add 1 Tablespoon brags vinegar stir and let cool.

Place into a jar with a lid.

(like a mason canning jar)

Store in the refrigerator

Take 1 tablespoon warmed as needed. ~TIPS~ I Use as soon as i feel a cold coming Stir and warm before using.

Use by the teaspoon or tablespoon as needed.Also great for seasonal allergies

This is not to be taken as medical advice this is just Recipes I use when I become sick.

If you become I’ll consult your family doctor.

#GaGa

#FluFighter

#Flu

#HomeRemedy