This is one of our favorite winter cold remedies.  If you have a cough or sore throat this is just heavenly!  The heat and steam coming off of the warm tea will also help with the cough and congestion as well!  Even my boys love this and think of it as a treat even when they are sick!

I usually mix a batch of this up mid fall to have on hand for cold season.  It will keep the whole season in the fridge without a problem.  You could even use this as a marinade or dressing!  This recipe is originally from Mothering magazine, but it has been so long I can’t remember what issue it is from.  Also I looked on their site, but couldn’t find it there either, so I’m guessing they just don’t have it posted there.

I usually use between 1 teaspoon and tablespoon of the elixir to hot water and bingo!  Tea is ready!  Mix as much or as little to taste!  You definitely need to use fresh ginger for this recipe and I would recommend using a [amazon_link id=”B00004S7V8″ target=”_blank” container=”” container_class=”” ]microplane[/amazon_link] or a [amazon_link id=”B005EY59XA” target=”_blank” container=”” container_class=”” ]very fine cheese shredder[/amazon_link] for the best results.

Ginger Honey Elixir

¼ cup freshly grated ginger

½ cup honey

½ cup water

Peal and great the ginger, then place all ingredients into small sauce pan and heat, stirring to melt the honey.  Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered until mixture has reduced slightly (10 minutes). Pour into a clean jar.  Will keep in the refrigerator for up to 6 months if not contaminated (by using a dirty spoon, for example).

Makes about 1 cup

Another great remedy for nausea or stomach upset is ginger tea.  It is simple and easy to make as well.  Also if I feel a cold coming on I will drink a 2-3 cups a day to help stave it off.  And it works!  It helps to warm the body and increase circulation!

Ginger Tea

2 cups water

1 piece gingerroot the size of the patient’s thumb (child or adult), sliced thin

Lemon juice – preferably fresh squeezed

Maple syrup or honey to taste

Simmer water with gingerroot until water has reduced by ½.  This is STRONG tea! Strain and pour into mug adding freshly squeezed lemon juice.  Stir in sweetener as desired.

Makes 1 cup of tea.

I hope you never need this… meaning that you never get sick, but unfortunately I don’t have much faith that will happen.  So try this and let me know if it helps you!

Medical Disclaimer: This information is meant to inform and not diagnose or treat illness or disease.  Before trying any of the ideas posted please research for yourself in order to make an educated decision.  Also, consult your doctor if tying to treat medical conditions.