Immune-Boosting Kitchen Herbs
Kitchen Herbs for Immunity
Many kitchen staples have immune-supporting properties.
Garlic (Allium sativum)
Benefits: Antimicrobial, stimulates white blood cells
How to use:
- Crush and let sit 10 minutes before cooking
- Add raw to dressings
- Honey garlic: Chop, cover with honey, use after 2 weeks
Daily: 1-3 cloves when fighting infection
Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
Benefits: Warming, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial
How to use:
- Fresh tea: Slice and simmer 10-15 minutes
- Add to stir-fries and soups
- Combine with lemon and honey
Turmeric (Curcuma longa)
Benefits: Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant
How to use:
- Golden milk: Turmeric, ginger, black pepper, milk, honey
- Add to soups and stews
- Always combine with black pepper
Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)
Benefits: Antimicrobial, expectorant
How to use:
- Tea: 1 teaspoon dried, steep 10 minutes
- Add to chicken soup
- Thyme honey for coughs
Other Immune Herbs
- Oregano: Antimicrobial, antiviral
- Rosemary: Antimicrobial, circulation
- Sage: Sore throat, antimicrobial
- Cinnamon: Warming, antimicrobial
- Cayenne: Circulation, breaks up congestion
Quick Recipes
Immune Broth:
- Add to any broth: 4-5 garlic cloves, 2 inches ginger, 1 tsp turmeric, thyme, black pepper
- Simmer 20-30 minutes
Fire Cider:
- Horseradish, onion, garlic, ginger, cayenne
- Cover with apple cider vinegar
- Steep 4 weeks, strain, add honey
Golden Milk:
- 1 cup milk, 1/2 tsp turmeric, 1/4 tsp ginger
- Pinch cinnamon and black pepper
- Honey to taste, warm gently