Most of my friendships with those who share my passion for natural wellness developed because of our mutual wellness-weirdness (you seriously forget how strange the products that you have on-hand/your go-to remedies/medical issues you talk about sound to people who are not into natural health – until you see the looks on their faces!). Cara helped coordinate my brother’s wedding, so I knew and loved her long before I knew we had so much in common. One night she wasn’t feeling well and I only had oscillococcinum in my purse and she knew what it was…and how to say it! We were kindred spirits! I am honored to share her favorite home remedies from her blog at SolutionsByCara.com. I highly recommend her to plan your event as well!
Back in the day, I use to be sick ALL THE TIME. Colds would turn into sinus infections and my closest relationships were with allergy pills and Z-Paks. In my 20’s I took my health into my own hands and started researching natural alternatives. Now when I get sick, Whole Foods is the first place I turn. Enjoy a couple of my favorite home remedies to strengthen your immune system during this blistery winter!
ACV Bevi
Apple Cider Vinegar solo is fairly horrific, but when you mix with Manuka honey, lemon, a dash of cayenne pepper, and of course water- you’ve got yourself a juice that is a great natural mucus thinner. This drink is great for a sore throats, hoarseness, colds, sinus and bronchial infections.
Manuka Honey
Manuka is a must-have for your medicine cabinet. Although a bit pricey, Manuka raw honey is GMO free, unpasteurized and packed with complex sugars, proteins, amino acids, organic acids, vitamins, flavonoids, and other naturally occurring compounds that are ideal when you’re feeling under the weather. I like to add a spoonful of Manuka to hot water with a little lemon and call it a day.
Steam and Sinus Rinse
If you’re like me and the crazy shape of the Neti Pot freaks you out, have no fear. There are a couple of sinus rinse alternatives that are less intimidating. I typically steam for 10–15 minutes with Thieves oil (mentioned below) or Peppermint to loosen up the mucus then flush it out with a sinus rinse.
Thieves Oil
If you don’t know about this oil, you should. Not only does it smell amazing but it has more uses than I can begin to mention. Thieves supports your immune system, can be used topically, internally, diffused — you name it!
Supplements
I’m pretty sure I have a supplement for every ailment for every letter of the alphabet because I believe in them!
Some of my winter favorites in my medicine cabinet:
Wellness Formula
This formula is my favorite for daily maintenance and maintaining a healthy immune system especially during the cold months and seasonal changes. These pills contain so much goodness you won’t know what to do with yourself.
Oscillococcinum
I dare you to say it 10 times fast. This magic homeopathic remedy is best to take at the first signs of crappiness. You might still get the bug but I’ve found it shortens the unwanted visitor.
Quercetin
One of my favorite natural anti-inflammatories I found when I was weening myself off of allergy pills. For me, this little yellow pill did the trick and is now my favorite decongestant.
Goldenseal
I was just recently introduced to Goldenseal. This pill is great for respiratory issues and clearing out bacterial infections.
Please share some of your favorite remedies!
Cara is a certified health coach from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition. As she began working with clients, she recognized health goes beyond diet and exercise. Through training, she found a passion for helping individuals find balance in their professional and personal lives which led to the creation of SolutionsByCara.com. Read more about Cara here.
My autism journey has changed the way I live and care for my family. I am passionate about nontoxic products, natural remedies, grain-free nutrition, essential oils, and healing the symptoms known as autism. This is a space for anyone aspiring toward cleaner, healthier living.
XO Joanna
