There are a lot of cough and cold remedies out there. Like, a lot a lot. Eat spicy food, get out in the fresh air, sleep in the same barn as a yak, I’ve heard ’em all. As far as I’m concerned, they’re all completely worthless. A cold is a cold and once you’ve got one, ain’t no getting rid of it until it’s good and ready to go.

However, sitting around and waiting to shake it is miserable. You have to do something, right? And if that something has the power to alleviate symptoms, even momentarily, then it’s worth a shot. It’s not like you’ve anything better to do.

This is an evolution of what I was always given as a child if I was off school with a runny nose. The juice of a lemon and a teaspoon of honey topped with boiling water. The turmeric I’ve added because the world and his wife says it’s good for you and it adds kick and colour, and the ginger for more gentle heat.

I hope this helps to soothe you, whatever your ailment may be. It certainly won’t cure you, but the steam may ease a sore throat and the act of preparing this drink feels like self healing in a way, so I always find myself returning to it when I’m sick.

juice of 1 lemon
1 tsp honey
1/2 tsp ground turmeric
thumb sized piece ginger (grate a little of it to get the juices out and slice the rest finely)

1. Put all of the ingredients into your favourite mug and top with boiling water. Stir, allow to cool slightly but drink while it’s hot for best results. You may have to stir a few times as you drink to make sure you get all the goodness down you.
2. Get well soon.

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