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I was x-country skiing this weekend and came across a book of old recipes at the inn where I was staying. In the back of the book was a list of remedies for various ailments which got me thinking about the ones we may have been given in childhood for a cold or as a preventative measure (cod liver oil, anyone?) as well as ones we take today. Some are foolproof and great ways to cure what ails you or as preventative measures and to build your immune system. Others may not be proven but many will swear by them (although best to consult your doctor or do some good research).

I consulted a small focus group today and asked them to share their lists of remedies that they’ve either heard of or practiced. Some fascinating stuff that might just help you through the cold & flu season and beyond. Here’s to a happy and healthy 2009. Feel free to share remedies you’ve tried or recommend. We’d love to hear from you.

• Cod liver oil – grandma was right! Cod liver oil is good for you. It’s a great source of Omega fatty acids which can help reduce the risks and symptoms of heart disease. Mercury is now an issue so be sure to get your fish oil from a trusted source and keep refrigerated. It has a short shelf life.
• Nutmeg on a string around your neck to stop a nosebleed.*
• A spoonful of sugar to stop hiccoughs (works for me).
• Raw almonds are great for an upset stomach. Bring some along on plane trips or long car rides.
• Raw garlic can help for constipation. I know it’s a touchy topic but hey, it happens.
• Suck on a cinnamon stick for nausea.
• Sucking on pickled umeboshi plum pits is a great Japanese remedy for an upset stomach.  It works!
• Add flax seeds to your diet to help fight against cancer.
• For cough or sore, tight throat – 1/2 cup bee’s honey, juice of 1 lemon and 1-1/2 jiggers of whiskey. Stir and drink.*
• Dark chocolate, at least 70 %, is high in antioxidants (chocolate lovers around the world rejoice). Go ahead. Whip up a batch of Mexican Hot Chocolate.
• Oatmeal lowers cholesterol in those tending to be high (been tested to be true although results vary person to person).
• Cinnamon has been shown to help regulate blood sugar levels (say, up to 1/2 teaspoon or so a day on foods).
• Lard and kerosene mixed on a brown paper bag – apply to the chest to draw out a cold.*
• Celery and hibiscus tea have been found to lower blood pressure in some people tending to be high.
• Swish sesame oil (or sunflower oil will work too) around in your mouth and suck it through your teeth for 10 – 20 minutes in the morning, spit out, then rinse your mouth.  This is an old Eastern Indian remedy that has been found (some research was just done on it that says this remedy significantly reduces plaque). And some swear it is a good detox of the whole body and gets rid of other problems.

* These remedies are from ”Yesterdays. Lodging places of Jackson and their recipes” published by the Jackson Historical Society, edited by Margaret B. Garland