We’re always looking for a new alternative way to beat a cold but, in their new book Vinegar Socks: Traditional Home Remedies for Modern Living (Hardie Grant, £12.99), Karin Berndl and Nici Hofer have gone one step further. Inspired by their Austrian backgrounds and family healing traditions, the natural health experts have come together to present 40 easy-to-follow home remedies that cure common illness.
Both grew up using family therapies that have been passed down from generation to generation, and many of the therapies, from a horseradish necklace to treat fever to an onion hat for ear infections, are quirky and use unusual, yet effective ingredients more commonly found in the kitchen cupboard than in the medicine cabinet.
Berndl and Hofer kick off by introducing the vinegar sock method – where you ward off a high temperature by wearing a pair of vinegar-soaked socks! But there’s method to this madness – vinegar is said to stimulate blood flow and have a fever-reducing effect. Other remedies may strike you as just as strange, but don’t knock them till you’ve tried them. Here are a few of Berndl and Hofer’s recipes to try for yourself.
CALM COUGHS
WHAT?
Elderflower infusion ‘Elderflower essences have been valued since ancient Greece,’ says Berndl. ‘The elderberry bush only flowers for a few weeks each year between May and July. However, elderberries can be sourced online or in health food shops.’
WHY IT WORKS
An infusion of elderflowers encourages the body to sweat and lowers fever. It also dissolves mucus and eases colds, irritable coughs and bronchial catarrh. Elderflowers also have antiinflammatory properties.
YOU’LL NEED
- 1 tbsp elderflowers
- 250ml water
HOW TO DO IT
- Put the elderflowers in a cup and pour boiling water over them.
- Leave to infuse for 10 minutes, then strain into a cup and drink straight away.
- To prevent a cold from progressing, drink one cup of this tea up to three times daily as soon as you notice any symptoms. This will boost your metabolism and immune system, helping your body fight the virus.
EASE SINUSITIS
WHAT?
Mustard seed compress ‘My family used this remedy when my sister had sinusitis,’ says Hofer. ‘Making the remedy involves using a pestle and mortar, so you’re allowed to feel like a proper pharmacist!’
WHY IT WORKS
Mustard seeds can be used to treat inflammation, rheumatism and headaches and they boast disinfectant properties.
YOU’LL NEED
- 2 tbsp mustard seeds
- A pestle and mortar
- 1 tbsp warm water
- A small linen cloth
- A piece of string
HOW TO DO IT
- Crush the mustard seeds with the pestle and mortar. Mix with the warm water to form a paste. Spread the mustard paste over the centre of the linen cloth, fold the edges in and secure with string.
- Press the mustard parcel against your cheeks and forehead, then remove after 5-10 minutes. Check your skin during this time, in case the sensitive skin on your face becomes irritated.
- Wash your face with warm water. Mustard seeds irritate the mucous membranes, so don’t get the paste in your eyes. If you do, rinse well.
BOOST YOUR DEFENCES
WHAT?
Garlic bread with honey & thyme ‘Don’t be put off by the unusual mixture of ingredients,’ says Berndl. ‘Eating raw garlic might make you smelly, but this yummy recipe means that you can benefit from all its goodness while enjoying something really tasty.’
WHY IT WORKS
Three powerful natural drugs on one slice of bread will boost even the weakest immune system. Garlic is a natural antibiotic and strengthens the immune system. Honey is a remedy that dates back to the ancient Greeks. It strengthens the immune system, prevents bacterial growth and reduces fever. It’s antimicrobial, and full of antioxidants. Thyme is antibacterial, fungicidal and antiviral. It strengthens the immune system, supports the digestive system and boosts blood circulation.
YOU’LL NEED
- Butter l Bread
- 2–3 cloves garlic, finely sliced
- Honey
- Thyme leaves
HOW TO DO IT
- Spread some butter on a slice of bread, add the garlic slices, dribble some honey over the top and sprinkle with some thyme leaves.
CLEAR CONGESTION
WHAT?
Chamomile & salt inhalation ‘Steam away your heavy head and blocked and swollen sinuses,’ says Hofer. ‘This remedy will also purify your skin and open your pores, making your skin look glorious!’
WHY IT WORKS
Chamomile disinfects, is antispasmodic and also has anti-inflammatory properties. Sea salt loosens phlegm, strengthens your immune system and acts as a disinfectant.
YOU’LL NEED
- 1l water
- A handful of dried chamomile flowers
- 3 tbsp sea salt
- A large towel
HOW TO DO IT
- Bring the water to the boil in a saucepan, then remove from the heat. Add the chamomile flowers and sea salt.
- Hold your head, face down, over the pan, about 20cm away from the water, and cover your head with a large towel, being careful to keep the towel away from the heat source.
- Inhale for 10 minutes and go to bed immediately after your treatment.
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