Flu and Cold Remedy

This is what I reach for after I’m past the point of throwing up, when that stage of the flu or a virus has hit its end, but when I’ve still got the sniffles, the drainage, the fever raging, the raw burning throat, the pounding headaches and the muscle soreness.  I don’t want something full in my belly just yet.  I want celery, a small amount of plain rice to comfort the stomach, a few croutons to scratch the throat, Doña María Nopalitos Tender Cactus, and Swanson Chinese Hot & Sour Flavor Infused Broth to sip, to heal.  I can make this from scratch, freeze it to heat up when I’m sick or I can just purchase these 32-oz boxes of Swanson’s and keep in my pantry for when I don’t feel pepped to do a single thing when the illness hits and wipes out any activity and energy needed.   The broth, undiluted, works the best on a throat that requires something healthy– ginger, garlic, onion, cayenne pepper, and some soy sauce– all good for an inflamed throat that feels like it’s eaten raw, and cut open.  At first, have some ice chips on hand to hurriedly munch when the throat is on fire from the strength of the broth.  It tastes good, the spices build, but by the sixth or so swallow, it will hurt but for its own good.  You’ll be glad you did it, especially by the next day.  It will also remove blisters from your tongue.  It’s magical, it’s grand.  Without any solids in the broth, it works its wonder and gets the job done without rushing the food intake in your system when you need something light.  The cactus is full of Vitamin-C, antioxidants and other nutrients good to fight off a bug, as well.  With rest, plenty of healthy fluids, blood oranges, and a few days down, this will be just what you need.  Take advantage of this time for some well-deserved R&R.

I stick a sprig of rosemary in the broth when it’s heating on the stove.  It is a good source of iron, calcium, and Vitamin B6.  It helps to alleviate muscle pain, boost the immune and circulatory system, and improves digestion.

For children, dilute the broth with water or regular chicken stock.