January 24th Update: Cold is gone but I am suffering from full blown laryngitis. Not in a blogging mind frame. Will be back soon!

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Yesterday morning, without any warning, I lost something very precious: my voice. I have been winning many battles with a virus for a week now but today I think I lost the war. Around 5 am I woke up with a tight congested chest which moved its way up into my throat. I’ll spare you the rest of the details but it seems also if I try to speak around the 4th word nothing more comes out.

So plenty of fluids it is and I took out my humidifier. A little home remedy research reminded me of my magic potion I used to make when I was younger….a hopeful cure all drink. Now I know this is not exactly a gourmet recipe but it is cold and flu season so you just may thank me down the line for this one. And don’t freak out at the garlic, I swear you barely can taste it, TRUST ME on this one. This tea is ideal for indigestion, nausea, and to ward off colds, flu, and sore throats. Here is my just perfected version…

Ginger Garlic Tea Recipe

  • 4 cups of water
  • 2-inch piece of fresh ginger
  • 1 garlic clove
  • 2-3 tbsp honey

Peel the ginger and slice it into thin slices and cut the garlic clove in 2 length wise.
Place the water, ginger and garlic in a saucepan and bring it to a boil.
Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
Strain the tea and add the honey to taste.

So why does this potion work?

Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties.

Garlic has antibacterial and antiseptic properties.

Honey has antibacterial properties, which can help speed healing. It also can draw water out of inflamed tissue, thus reducing the swelling and pain.

Got a fever? Add a good pinch of cayenne pepper.

STAY AWAY from the lemon. This is to acidic and will cause more harm then good. Same goes for tomatoes, all citrus fruits and chocolate.