The ultimate immune boosting tonic
Brrrr....this horrendous weather is really getting tiresome.
The problem with the weather being mild one minute and freezing cold the next, is that you are much more prone to getting sick.
While catching a cold is a nuisance at the best of times, when you are trying to conceive it can be a real problem.
The importance of minding your immunity when trying to conceive
For those of you going through IVF treatment, if you have even a slight fever, your transfer probably won't get the go-ahead and there is a good reason for this cautious approach.
When trying to conceive naturally, as well as during IVF, your core body temperature and immune cell balance within the cervical and uterine environment must be kept stable at all times.
If you are trying to conceive and have been found to have elevated NK cells or cytokines, then you know all too well the importance of keeping your immune system in check.
The problem with the medical treatments for elevated immune cell activity (e.g. steroids, intralipids, IVIG, Humira) is that they temporarily reduce your ability to fight off infection, which is why you should do everything you can to mind yourself during that vulnerable time.
My favourite anti-inflammatory, immune boosting tea recipe
I have been drinking various versions of this tea for many years, as I find it brilliant for reducing cold symptoms, improving my circulation, as well as digestion. I have also heard positive reports back from my patients who have tried it themselves.
Lately, due to increased availability in supermarkets, I have started adding fresh turmeric root to my concoction, which I find adds a lovely, earthy undertone, while also seriously amping up the anti-inflammatory activity of this tea!
Don't be turned off by this seemingly, potent combination of ingredients, the taste is actually very mellow.
Ingredients
- 1 inch piece of fresh ginger root
- 1 inch piece of fresh turmeric
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1/4 a red onion
- juice of 1 lemon
- a pinch of cayenne pepper (just a dash if you don't like it too spicy or a proper pinch if you love a bit of heat!)
Instructions
- Peel and roughly chop the first 4 ingredients and add to a pot with 1 litre of filtered water
- Bring to the boil and then allow to simmer gently for 10 minutes.
- Stir in the lemon juice and your preferred amount of cayenne. (Best to start small with the spiciness, you can add more, but you can't take it away).
- Pour off some of your special concoction into a mug. (Tip: Pour it through a sieve to catch any bits)
- Allow to cool, then enjoy the surge in warmth and boosted circulation that you'll feel after drinking this wonderful tea ;)
