Good Morning Bethany,A little over a month ago I came down with a nasty virus. The worst symptoms subsided within about 10 days, but the cough lingered for another three weeks or so and was significantly worse at night. As I’ve mentioned, I don’t love taking medication. Still, out of sheer desperation, I tried Robitussin (made it worse), Delsym (made my nausea 10 times worse, which is the last thing I needed; also, the electric blue color was pretty off-putting), and Zarbee’s (I would actually recommend this for a less severe cough, it wasn’t as effective when I was at my worst, but it was helpful as the cough eventually began to subside). One of the reasons I don’t like taking OTC medications is that many of them are filled with artificial dyes and fillers. I also find them to rarely be that effective. So, I went back to basics and made my own cough suppressant, which doubled as an immune booster as well. It may be helpful to know that this was an unproductive, dry cough and not one that was working to expel mucus. I’d had a terrible sore throat and mild congestion with this virus, so I’m guessing that the cough was partly post-nasal drip and partly an irritated throat. This recipe is really to taste so feel free to adjust as you prefer, but here are the basics: 1/2C pineapple (frozen or fresh; if fresh use core as well) 1/2 - 3/4C coconut water 2tbsp honey (preferably raw or manuka) 2tbsp extra virgin olive oil Juice from 1/2 lemon Small piece fresh turmeric, peeled Small piece fresh ginger, peeled Pinch of black pepper, optional (helps to absorb turmeric)
Process in a high-speed blender and enjoy. I doubled & tripled this and sipped it during the day. I also put some in an insulated travel mug next to my bed at night. When a coughing spell hit, I’d take a few sips and almost instantly my throat would be soothed. This is suitable for kids over a year old, as well (never give honey to a child younger than one). My son eventually caught the same thing, and after a little coaxing, he tried this and was pleasantly surprised that he actually liked it! I’m curious: are you interested to know why these ingredients are used or do you just want to know what to use and that’s enough? Let me know! Stay well,
Bethany
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