Better Balance + Flow

It’s that time of year again when we’re all wondering how the summer passed by so quickly and we can feel the chill of fall in the air. As we start to wrap up for the colder weather, we’re also thinking about the best ways to boost our immune systems to keep those stuffy noses at bay. Although there are plenty of immune-boosting ingredients around, we’ve gathered together a few of our favourites that when combined create a delicious, warming tea that will help to get you through the flu-season!

Elderberry

Elderberries have been used for centuries to boost the immune system. Although they’re edible, they should always be cooked before consumption. They’re full of immune-boosting antioxidants and are high in vitamin C, which is often used to fight off colds and flu. In fact, elderberries have even been shown to reduce the duration of cold and flu symptoms.

Rosehips

Often found just below the rose petals, rosehips are usually taken from the Rosa Canina plant. They’re rich in antioxidants, and high in vitamins C & E which help to stimulate white blood cell production, protecting the body against infection. They may also aid weight loss due to the presence of the antioxidant tiliroside, which is said to have fat-burning properties.

Astragalus Root

Also known as Huang Qi or Milk Vetch, astragalus root comes from a type of bean/legume and has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. It’s high in antioxidants and is used as a natural dietary supplement. As well as being Immune boosting, it also has anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties. 

Ashwagandha Root

An ancient medicinal herb that grows in Africa and Asia, it’s a classified adaptogen, meaning that it can help your body to manage stress. Ashwagandha is an important ayurvedic herb which has been used over 3000 years to relieve stress, increase energy levels and improve concentration. Don’t be put off by it’s Sanskrit name ‘smell of the horse’ which doesn’t just relate to its smell, but also to its association with feeling strong – it’s also known as Indian ginseng or Indian winter cherry, which arguably has a nicer ring to it. 

Licorice Root

Used in ancient medicine and dating back to Ancient Egypt when it was made into a sweet drink for the pharaohs, Licorice root was also used by the ancient Greeks, Chinese and Middle Easterns to treat various ailments. It’s perfect for flu season as it’s anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects can ease sore throats.

What could be better than a warming tea that combines these ingredients together to help boost immunity this fall. Try this recipe by JJ Pursell, found in his book “The Herbal Apothecary: 100 Medicinal Herbs and How to Use Them.”