Immune Boosting Magick– Right in Your Kitchen!
As we all know by now, the world has been literally plagued with the dreaded Covid-19 virus. Some parts of the world are entering into the winter wonderland phase of the season! With that change in season also comes flu concerns. Combining those things with the already troubling Corona Virus pandemic has me looking into my herbal cabinet!
So, what can we as witches do to help prevent illness from settling in or even shortening the length of time of those who are currently already sick?
Let us turn to our kitchens and cauldrons!
First let us start with simple hand hygiene. This is probably the easiest thing to do! Wash your hands. Good old-fashioned soap and water are sufficient methods of lessening the spread of germs. No need to sanitizer your hands all the time, that should only be used as a backup method. When you use an overabundance of hand sanitizers you are wiping out the natural flora, also known as GOOD bacteria! Alcohol deprives the skin of its natural oils and water which can dry out the skin and interrupts the skins natural protective barrier, in turn increasing the risk of bacteria and viruses entering our system.
Let us now turn towards the herbalist side! There are many powerful ingredients right in your kitchen that you can use to conquer cough; cold and flu season and they are affordable and easily obtainable.
Elderberry, Echinacea, Parsley, Thyme, Rosemary, Sage, Mint, Ginger, Garlic, Lemon, and Honey to name a few!
Elderberry, Sambucus Nigra, is probably the most popular and well known one to use to fight against sickness. This is the fruit of the black elder tree which is native to North America, Europe, and Western Asia. Elderberry contains a large amount of vitamin C and may reduce the intensity of cold and flu duration by ½ to 1/3. However, there is a continuing debate about the use of Elderberry with Covid-19. They are warning people that have COVID-19, of something called “cytokine storms”, it is rare, but a deadly possibility with this virus and it is recommended to NOT use Elderberry with this particular strain of Covid-19. And of course, always seek medical advice from your PCP before using any natural remedies.
Honey is another fabulous immune system builder! It has antioxidant, antifungal, antibacterial and anti-tumor properties! Honey is considered a powerhouse antioxidant, which is amazingly effective for removal of free radicals from the body. Honey can also soothe sore and irritated throats. In case you did not know, honey is not recommended for use in children under one year of age.
Garlic contains antiseptic and immunity boosting compounds. Garlic can also help to open clogged sinuses. Garlic can be crushed, sliced, or chewed – these actions produce allicin, which is what gives garlic its immune-boosting power!
Ginger can sooth a scratchy throat, but it has a chemical called sesquiterpenes that target rhinoviruses, this is the most common family of cold viruses. Ginger is a natural pain and fever reducer too!
Thyme is an excellent herb for supporting the immune system, both before and during illness. It stimulates the thymus gland, which that gland is responsible for regulating the immune system! Thyme is also a great expectorant and antimicrobial herb for the lungs.
Rosemary is a great source of vitamins A, C and manganese. (Manganese is a mineral that is found in several foods including nuts, legumes, seeds, tea, whole grains, and leafy green vegetables.) Rosemary also contains antioxidants that protect against cell damage and boosts the immune system.
Mint is another great herb for boosting immune health. It’s packed with vitamins A and C and has antioxidants.
Parsley – either flat or curly are loaded with vitamins A, C and K. It is also great to use as an anti-inflammatory.
Sage can help sooth sore throat and boost immune response. It has anti-inflammatory properties so sage tea would help reduce swelling and irritation of a sore throat.
Lemons are high in vitamin c and a natural antioxidant which enhances the immune system. They also have antiviral and antibacterial properties. They can also alleviate nausea.
And last, but certainly not least, we have echinacea. Echinacea is packed with antioxidants which may help defend your body against oxidative stressors. A review of 14 studies found that taking echinacea mat lower the risk of developing colds by more than 50% and shorten the duration of colds by one and a half days. A bonus with this beautiful herb, research has discovered that echinacea plants contain compounds that may reduce feelings of anxiety.
And of course, here is our disclaimer: Statements throughout this publication have not been evaluated by the FDA. These suggestions are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease progression. Please consult your primary care physician before adding herbal remedies to your health and wellness regimen. There could be contraindications with certain types of medications and there could be adverse effects if you are pregnant or nursing.
Now, let us get to our cauldron and brew up a much-needed item utilizing some of these beautiful ingredients mentioned above.
Witches Wintery Boo Brew
Makes about 2 cups of product – Store in refrigerator up to 2-3 months.
What you will need:
3.. 1 1/4 Cup organic honey
Directions:
Mix the lemon and ginger slices into one pile and then divide them into two piles.
Place 1/2 of your lemon and ginger slices into the bottom of your mason jar.
Pour honey (organic is best) over the lemon and ginger slowly. Let the honey sink down and around the lemon and ginger slices.
Make sure when the honey has filled in all the gaps, that there is enough left to cover the top with your other half of lemon and ginger slices.
Add your shot of alcohol.
Cover the mason jar, shake, and put it in the fridge, it will begin to form into a "jelly-like" substance. This should sit in your refrigerator for about a week before using.
To serve: Add two tablespoons of the "jelly" into a mug and pour boiling water over it. You can also steep a peppermint tea bag in this mixture to aid in breathing.
Enjoy!
Stay safe everyone and until next time, Live, Love, and Magick!
Laurie Gouley
References:
https://scienceandartofherbalism.com/coronavirus-elderberry/
https://www.livescience.com/62527-thymus.html
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17597571/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21031616/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11697022/
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As September begins, daytime high temperatures remember summer’s warmth, yet a few weeks to months later are dramatically different. Mornings spent with a slight chill in the air soon require additional layers to prevent the cold. These transitions can happen over a few short weeks or extend through the months.
As the weather warms and cools throughout the year, the humidity levels in the air fluctuate as well. If the humidity is low like what we experience in cold winter months, our skin’s moisture levels can drop rapidly which cause dry and dull skin. This is why rich moisturizers are must-have during the fall and winter season. Welcoming summer can be a bit different; we may notice an increase in oil production in our skin which makes it look shinier. This is the best time to have lightweight moisturizers and gel-based cleanser.
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Ready or not, Mercury Retrograde in Virgo has arrived to shake things up! Time to keep our eyes open and our thinking caps on.
Virgo, the Earth sign ruled by Mercury, is known for its sharp eye for detail, down-to-earth practicality, and orderly nature. When Mercury, the planet of intellect and communication, retrogrades in Virgo, these traits are amplified, causing us to reflect and review many parts of our lives.
The retrograde's effect on communication will be prominent; there may be some disagreements and difficulty expressing ourselves, so we ought to be thoughtful about the words we choose and consider how our body language may affect the conversation.
Amber Star
October 28, 2021
What can I.substitute for the alcohol?? Would organic unfiltered apple juice be a good choice? Don’t drink alcohol! Recipe sounds yummy, thank.you💓💓