The cold and flu season is especially challenging for parents and a virus is the one thing that any child will share readily. Here are some easy remedies to help ease you through this time of year.

Herbal Apple Juice

Astragalus is an herb that stimulates immune system functions. Place three or four strips of the herb in a 12-ounce bottle. Add six ounces organic apple juice and six ounces filtered water. Let the mixture set for 1-2 days so the properties of the herb can seep into the mixture. Remove the herb and give the bottle to your child to sip on. Note: If your child has been diagnosed with ADD, please do not use apple juice. There is a sugar in the juice that can trigger hyperactivity.

Keep the Water Flowing

If your child already has a cold or flu, instead of trying to get them drink a big 8 oz. glass of water every hour, give them a 3-4 oz cup every 15 minutes. Avoid orange juice as it has a mucous producing agent, as do dairy products.

Homemade Vegetable Soup

Proteins are harder to digest, so keep it simple. Throw in some astragalus and burdock root to boost the immune system and cleanse the blood, add fresh garlic for the antibiotic properties, carrots and potatoes for their wealth of vitamins along with reishi and shitaki mushrooms, sage and fresh ginger as well as any other vegetable you feel is good for your child.

Maria Myrback is a Certified Hypnotherapist and Student Herbalist. For consultations or appointments call 321-693-9835.