3 Spices for Winter Wellness

The holidays are here. This time of year brings more family gatherings, festivities and feasting.

Unfortunately cold and flu season follows hot on the heels of the holiday season.

The good news is that many of the spices that we pull out of the cabinet this time of year help to prevent colds. Enjoy this wonderful time of celebration and connection but make sure to support your winter wellness by spicing up your food a bit more.

As you prepare your holiday appetizers, drinks and meals, think about adding more spices to your food. Here are some ideas of how to use my favorite spices that help keep sickness away during the winter months.

Ginger

Ginger root has a strong antibacterial activity and helps to ward off colds. It’s warming nature increases circulation and rids the body of mucus and excess congestion. Add some freshly grated ginger to your oatmeal or make yourself a cup of hot ginger tea the next time you feel you might be catching a cold. I like to add powdered ginger to yogurt, smoothies and green drinks.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon tea is a time tested remedy to help with the onset of a cold. Cinnamon will dissolve mucus and helps resolve irritating coughs. Sprinkle cinnamon into holiday desserts and keep a salt shaker on your table filled with cinnamon. If it is on your table next to the salt and pepper you will use it more often. Cinnamon goes well with many breakfast foods and is delicious sprinkled on rice.

Star Anise

Star anise is a classic ingredient found in holiday mulled cider and wines. This warming and pungent spice is highly antibacterial and helps to fight off colds and flu. You can add 1 star anise pod to soups and broths to support your immune system. Star anise also goes really well with sweet potatoes and squash soups and is delicious sprinkled on eggs.