My kiddos have been feeling a bit under the weather during the past week, and it's a good thing I was stocked up on all of our favorite natural sickness remedies. My absolute favorite thing to have on hand, is elderberry syrup....it helps lessen the severity and length of colds and flu. Plus, it is so easy to make! I try to always have dried elderberries on hand to make it, and do so in small batches when needed.
We also have a cupboard full of different kinds of tea--many are medicinal in their properties, and are such a wonderful benefit to children when they are feeling sick. Traditional Medicinals makes some teas that are made just for kids....they have ones just for colds, sore throats, and a sweet nighty-night tea that is chammomile based for easing the trasition into bed.
I have to admit, sometimes my kiddos don't like the flavor of teas. Even when I put raw honey in them, which has throat soothing and immune boosting properties of it's own, they sometimes don't want to drink them. My solution?
Well, I make a strong tea...which just means I steep it longer. About 10 minutes is sufficient. (While it's steeping, I have the mug of tea covered with a plate or bowl, to keep all the good properties in it.) Then, I pour half of that mug of tea, into a new mug or into whatever my kiddos will drink it out of, and add 1/4 to 1/2 cup of juice.
If they like the taste, they are much more likely to drink up their tea, and it also helps them to stay hydrated, which lowers fevers and is just a good thing in general when you aren't feeling your best.
Here's to more happy tea drinkers,
Joy~
{This post is a part of Pennywise Platter and Simple Lives Thursday}