These days synthetic antibiotics are commonly used (although not so easily prescribed by all the doctors). People are turning to them more frequently. But respiratory infections aren’t all treated by antibiotics, and not all flue and cold-symptoms are treated by antibiotics. Until the discovery of penicillin, the first men-made antibiotic, nature gave us all necessary remedies to treat various diseases. And below is a recipe containing some potent natural herbal remedies to boost your immune system.

I received the recipe from one of my Polish students. The original recipe comes from http://agnieszkamaciag.pl/genialny-zakwas-z-burakow-domowej-roboty/ I don’s speak Polish, but it looks like a great website with some fab looking recipes (for all of those who do understand what Agnieszka is saying!)

I have tried giving this to my children as a cough medicine – they don’t like it as much but as with any other potions that their mother gives them, they take it with sour faces and get on with their day! I personally think it tastes wonderful as a salad dressing!

But please be aware if you are suffering with stomach ulcers – I wouldn’t take it on an empty stomach and would follow children’s doses (see below)!

Ingredients:
– 3 cups of organic apple cider vinegar
– 3-4 tablespoons of honey
– 1/4 cup garlic cloves
– 1/4 cup onion (peeled and chopped)
-1/4 cup fresh ginger (chopped)
– 2 tablespoons of fresh grated horseradish (*optional)
– 2 tablespoons turmeric powder (can be replaced by fresh root)
– a pinch of black pepper

Blend all ingredients together put in a clean glass jar with a lid and leave in a dark, dry and cool place for 2 weeks. I keep mine in larder or fridge is OK too. Shake or stir the jar once a day.

After 2 weeks (I’m pretty sure I left my last batch for 4 weeks!), sieve the whole mixture and keep the liquid in a dark glass bottle, container or a jar, in the fridge.

You can use this antibiotic as prevention:
– Adults: 1 tablespoon a day in the morning. Can be diluted with water.
– Kids: 1 teaspoon a day diluted with warm water.

In case of an infection (please see my disclaimer):
Same as before but up to 4/5 times a day, trying not to have it just before sleeping.

Disclaimer: I am not a doctor, and if you are already suffering from an infection or are concerned about your health, please consult with your GP at first instance before proceeding with dietary change and in order to make an informed choice.