IMMUNE-BOOSTING BROTH/NOURISHING TEA
It’s kind of odd that while mass media is constantly telling us how to avoid getting and spreading the virus, there’s very little talk about how to nourish and strengthen the immune system in general, so that the body is less susceptible to not just COVID-19, but any virus or pathogen.
My herbalist training program started right at the start of the shelter in place mandates, which made it perfect timing to learn about some of the best plants and herbs to boost our immune system so we can prevent and fight off viruses and other pathogens more easily.
This is a broth recipe shared by my school, Vital Ways, in Portland, OR. It can be a broth used for an actual soup or you can drink it like a tea, which is my preference.
Immune-Boosting Broth
INGREDIENTS (for 1 to 1.5 gallons water):
-1.5 oz reishi mushroom slices
-1.5 oz astragalus root slices
-1.5 oz echinacea root
-1 oz fresh sliced ginger
-.5 oz licorice root
-3 oz coconut oil
-1.5 oz total of oregano, thyme, and/or rosemary
* Can use bone broth or veggie broth in place of water
DIRECTIONS
Add water and all ingredients except for oregano/thyme/rosemary to a large pot
Bring to a boil and then turn down to a simmer for 45 minutes to an hour
Turn off heat
Add oregano, thyme, and rosemary to pot and cover for 15 minutes
Enjoy 1 cup 2-3 times per day
This will keep in the refrigerator 3-5 days and several months in the freezer.