Leaves start falling, socks are worn, sweaters are cozy and school starts.
Another tell-tale sign of fall and back to school is someone coming home with an itchy throat. Then another family member gets sniffly and away we go.
I have been making chicken noodle soup and filling them with lots of liquids- home made juices, tea and popsicles- anything to keep them hydrated.
I also love ginger and lemon tea. The problem here is that someone in my house doesn't like lemon, someone else doesn't like ginger. So this one I enjoy, but not a great family remedy.
After doing some research on other soothing teas for sore throats, I came across some ayurvedic recipes that included clove as an important part of healing sore throats. Apparently it is a powerful healing agent.
I made this simple tea and gave it to my husband first when he complained of a sore throat, without
mentioning what it was. He immediately asked for more saying how soothing it was. Then I gave it to my daughter and she said as soon as she started drinking it, it helped her feel better. These were both unsolicited reviews. That told me a lot. I immediately made another batch.
It is important to remember that with any herbal preparation, there can be some side effects. I won't be giving unlimited amounts of this to the kids but in small doses, when sore throats are at their worst, we will be drinking this.
Sweet & Spicy Sore Throat Tea
You can make this ahead of time, storing it in the fridge and warming up as needed. I crush the cardamom pods with the bottom of a mug or the saucepan lid.
4 cups water
2 cinnamon sticks
8 cloves
8 cardamom pods, crushed to reveal seeds
4 tbsp honey, or to taste
1. In a small saucepan, bring water and spices to a boil. Turn down heat to minimum, cover with lid and simmer for 30 minutes. Strain and add honey to taste.
2. Drink immediately or store in fridge and warm up before serving.
