Which herbal teas are most effective for relieving sinus congestion. How do different herbs and spices in tea help alleviate nasal and respiratory symptoms. What are the top recommended teas for fighting colds and allergies naturally.

Understanding Sinus Congestion and Its Causes

Sinus congestion is a common ailment that affects millions of people, especially during cold and flu season or allergy flare-ups. It occurs when the tissues lining the sinuses become swollen and inflamed, leading to a buildup of mucus and difficulty breathing through the nose. This can result in discomfort, pressure, and even pain in the facial area.

Common causes of sinus congestion include:

• Viral infections like the common cold or flu
• Allergies to pollen, dust, or other environmental triggers
• Bacterial infections
• Changes in air pressure or temperature
• Structural issues in the nasal passages

While over-the-counter medications can provide relief, many people prefer natural remedies like herbal teas to alleviate their symptoms. Herbal teas offer a soothing and effective way to combat congestion without the potential side effects of pharmaceutical options.

The Power of Herbal Teas in Fighting Sinus Congestion

Herbal teas have been used for centuries as natural remedies for various ailments, including sinus congestion. These teas are packed with beneficial compounds that can help reduce inflammation, thin mucus, and boost the immune system. The warm steam from the tea also helps to moisturize nasal passages and loosen congestion.

Do herbal teas really work for sinus congestion. Research suggests that many herbs commonly used in teas possess properties that can indeed help alleviate sinus symptoms. For example, a study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that certain herbal compounds have anti-inflammatory and decongestant effects that can provide relief from nasal congestion.

Top 6 Herbal Teas for Sinus Congestion Relief

1. Turmeric Tea

Turmeric, often referred to as nature’s “physician,” is a powerful superfood known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. A warm cup of turmeric tea can help reduce swelling in the nasal passages and combat the underlying causes of congestion.

How to prepare turmeric tea for maximum benefits. Mix 1 teaspoon of ground turmeric with a pinch of black pepper (to enhance absorption) in hot water. Add a squeeze of lemon and a teaspoon of honey for taste. Steep for 5-10 minutes before drinking.

2. Ginger Tea

Ginger is renowned for its ability to boost the immune system and provide relief from various respiratory issues. Its natural warmth and spiciness can help clear nasal passages and soothe sore throats.

Can ginger tea help with nausea as well as congestion. Yes, ginger tea is effective in alleviating both congestion and nausea. Its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce swelling in the nasal passages, while its compounds can calm an upset stomach and reduce nausea.

3. Lemon Tea

Lemon tea, rich in Vitamin C, is a potent immune booster that can help fight off the infections causing sinus congestion. The citrus fruit’s natural acidity can also help break down mucus, providing relief from stuffiness.

How often should one drink lemon tea for congestion relief. For best results, consume 2-3 cups of lemon tea daily when experiencing sinus congestion. You can make it by steeping a slice of lemon in hot water or adding lemon juice to black or green tea.

4. Peppermint Tea

The refreshing aroma and taste of peppermint tea come with the added benefit of natural menthol, which acts as a decongestant. This herb can effectively relieve coughs and ease breathing difficulties associated with sinus congestion.

Is peppermint tea safe for everyone. While generally safe, peppermint tea should be consumed in moderation by people with acid reflux or GERD, as it may worsen symptoms. Pregnant women should consult their healthcare provider before consuming large amounts of peppermint tea.

5. Green Tea

Green tea is packed with antioxidants like catechins, polyphenols, and flavonoids, which offer numerous health benefits. When it comes to sinus congestion, green tea can help reduce inflammation in the nasal and respiratory passages, loosening congestion and soothing sore throats.

How does green tea compare to other teas in terms of caffeine content. Green tea generally contains less caffeine than black tea but more than herbal teas. On average, an 8-ounce cup of green tea contains 25-35 mg of caffeine, compared to 14-60 mg in black tea and 0 mg in most herbal teas.

6. Licorice Root Tea

Licorice root tea, known for its strong and distinct flavor, possesses antiviral and antimicrobial properties that can help combat the underlying causes of sinus congestion. It’s particularly effective in soothing sore throats and reducing inflammation in the respiratory tract.

Are there any precautions to take when consuming licorice root tea. While beneficial, licorice root tea should be consumed in moderation. Excessive intake can lead to increased blood pressure and lower potassium levels. People with heart conditions, kidney disease, or high blood pressure should consult a healthcare professional before regularly consuming licorice root tea.

The Science Behind Herbal Teas and Sinus Relief

The effectiveness of herbal teas in relieving sinus congestion is not just anecdotal; it’s backed by scientific research. Many of the herbs used in these teas contain compounds that have been studied for their medicinal properties.

How do the compounds in herbal teas work to relieve congestion. The active compounds in herbal teas work through various mechanisms:

• Anti-inflammatory effects: Reduce swelling in nasal passages
• Mucolytic properties: Help thin and break down mucus
• Antimicrobial action: Combat bacteria and viruses causing infection
• Immunostimulant effects: Boost the body’s natural defense mechanisms

For example, curcumin in turmeric has been shown to have potent anti-inflammatory effects, while the menthol in peppermint acts as a natural decongestant by affecting the cold receptors in the nose and sinuses.

Enhancing the Effectiveness of Herbal Teas for Sinus Relief

While herbal teas alone can provide significant relief from sinus congestion, there are several ways to enhance their effectiveness:

1. Add a touch of honey: Honey has natural antibacterial properties and can help soothe sore throats.
2. Incorporate lemon: The vitamin C in lemon can boost immune function and help thin mucus.
3. Use steam inhalation: The steam from hot tea can help moisturize nasal passages and loosen congestion.
4. Combine herbs: Mixing different herbs can create a more potent remedy. For example, combining ginger and turmeric can provide enhanced anti-inflammatory effects.

How often should one drink herbal teas for optimal sinus relief. For best results, aim to consume 2-3 cups of herbal tea daily when experiencing sinus congestion. It’s important to stay hydrated, as this helps thin mucus and promote drainage.

Lifestyle Factors That Complement Herbal Tea Remedies

While herbal teas can provide significant relief from sinus congestion, incorporating certain lifestyle changes can enhance their effectiveness and promote overall sinus health:

• Maintain proper hydration: Drinking plenty of water helps thin mucus and promotes drainage.
• Use a humidifier: Adding moisture to the air can help prevent nasal passages from drying out.
• Practice nasal irrigation: Using a neti pot or saline spray can help flush out irritants and excess mucus.
• Avoid irritants: Reduce exposure to allergens, smoke, and other pollutants that can trigger congestion.
• Get adequate rest: Proper sleep allows the body to heal and fight off infections more effectively.

Can dietary changes help alleviate sinus congestion. Yes, certain dietary modifications can complement the effects of herbal teas in relieving sinus congestion. Consider incorporating the following into your diet:

• Foods rich in vitamin C to boost immune function
• Spicy foods to help clear nasal passages
• Omega-3 fatty acids to reduce inflammation
• Probiotic-rich foods to support overall immune health

Potential Side Effects and Precautions When Using Herbal Teas

While herbal teas are generally safe for most people, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects and take necessary precautions:

• Allergic reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to certain herbs. Always start with a small amount to test for any adverse reactions.
• Interactions with medications: Some herbs can interact with prescription medications. Consult with a healthcare provider if you’re taking any medications.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Certain herbs may not be safe during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Always consult with a healthcare provider before using herbal remedies in these situations.
• Overuse: Excessive consumption of certain herbs can lead to side effects. Follow recommended dosages and don’t use herbal remedies for extended periods without consulting a healthcare professional.

When should one seek medical attention for sinus congestion. While herbal teas can provide relief for many cases of sinus congestion, it’s important to recognize when professional medical care is necessary. Seek medical attention if:

• Symptoms persist for more than 10 days
• You experience severe pain in your face or forehead
• You have a high fever (above 101.5°F or 38.6°C)
• Your symptoms worsen after initially improving
• You notice changes in vision or severe headaches

Creating Your Own Herbal Tea Blends for Sinus Relief

Experimenting with different herb combinations can lead to personalized and effective sinus relief blends. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Sinus Buster Blend

• 1 part dried ginger root
• 1 part dried turmeric root
• 1/2 part dried peppermint leaves
• 1/4 part dried licorice root

Mix the herbs and steep 1-2 teaspoons of the blend in hot water for 5-10 minutes. Strain and add honey to taste.

Respiratory Relief Blend

• 1 part green tea leaves
• 1 part dried lemon balm
• 1/2 part dried thyme
• 1/4 part dried rosemary

Combine the herbs and steep 1 tablespoon of the mixture in hot water for 5-7 minutes. Strain and add a slice of fresh lemon.

How long can homemade herbal tea blends be stored. When stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place, homemade herbal tea blends can typically last for 6-12 months. However, for the best flavor and potency, it’s recommended to use them within 3-6 months.

The Role of Hydration in Sinus Health

Proper hydration plays a crucial role in maintaining sinus health and alleviating congestion. Drinking enough fluids, including herbal teas, helps in several ways:

• Thinning mucus: Adequate hydration helps thin out thick mucus, making it easier to expel.
• Moisturizing nasal passages: Proper hydration keeps nasal passages moist, preventing irritation and dryness.
• Supporting immune function: A well-hydrated body is better equipped to fight off infections that can lead to sinus congestion.
• Flushing toxins: Increased fluid intake helps flush out toxins and irritants that can contribute to sinus issues.

How much fluid should one consume daily for optimal sinus health. While individual needs vary, a general guideline is to aim for 8-10 cups (64-80 ounces) of fluid per day. This can include water, herbal teas, and other hydrating beverages. During periods of sinus congestion, you may benefit from increasing your fluid intake slightly.

Top 6 Teas for Congestion Relief

While winter is eagerly awaited after the heat and extreme humidity, it also brings seasonal illnesses – with congestion from a stuffy nose and sore throat being the top irritant. The elixir that works to soothe and alleviate congestion is none other than our favorite tea. The great news is that there are so many varieties of tea that will suit varying tastes and preferences. Let’s take you through the list of the top 6 teas for congestion relief and providing the warmth you need to combat the cold season.

Tea is packed with natural and powerful nutrients and antioxidants that combat illness and help you stay well. Try these teas to combat congestion and those winter ‘blues’, so easily available as tea bags or loose leaves. Remember to buy only from a reputed brand that assuredly contains tea leaves and herbs, and not just tea dust and fannings.

1. Turmeric Tea

Turmeric is a superfood and nature’s very own ‘physician’. It is packed full of anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties and loads of antioxidants. A hot cup of Turmeric tea is a natural and healthy remedy to combat congestion, a runny/stuffy nose, sore throat, and cough while providing a feeling of overall wellness. There are several delicious herbal combinations available designed to support and boost immunity and leave you feeling energetic.

2. Ginger Tea

This spicy root is loaded with powerful nutrients and vitamins that energize and strengthen the immune system, while soothing congestion, nausea, and an irritated digestive system. The warmth of Ginger tea helps heal congestion, sore throats, stuffed nose, and more, such that you feel well and sleep better.

3. Lemon Tea

Loaded with Vitamin C, hot Lemon tea is a highly potent immunity booster and is known to bring relief to congestion and sore throats. Lemon tea can be prepared either with black tea or green tea as a base.

4. Peppermint Tea

The refreshing aroma and uplifting taste best describe Peppermint tea. The natural menthol effectively relieves an annoying cough and eases congestion. Additionally, this tea relieves stress, reduces a fever, soothes an upset tummy, and overall leaves one feeling fresh and rejuvenated.

5. Green Tea

Green tea is a universally loved tea, given that is packed full of antioxidants such as catechins, polyphenols, and flavonoids, which are known for their superlative health benefits. A hot cup of Green tea alleviates inflammation in the nasal and respiratory passages, which loosens congestion, soothes a sore throat, and brings relief from a stuffy/runny nose. Additionally, it is a tasty way to remain hydrated and boost the immune system.

6. Licorice Root Tea

Licorice Root tea has a strong and robust flavor, and given its antiviral and antimicrobial properties, it helps to ease congestion by combating the bacteria/virus that causes it. Licorice Root tea, though, is an acquired taste, and those who find the taste overwhelming can add raw honey and or lemon to balance out the flavor.

Combating Nasal Congestion, Naturally

Seasonal allergies and flu, bring congestion and extreme discomfort, but thankfully you can fight all of these with delicious and nuanced flavors of tea, available from a reputed brand. Tea – any type or flavor – is a great way to heal, feel refreshed, and stay fit, rather than forcing your body to fight illnesses. Tea is a natural immune booster and should be part of your daily diet, whether you are a tea fanatic or not. Do check with your doctor with regard to the kind and quantity of tea, before you begin, especially if you are on medication and or have some kind of health condition.

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Sinus Buster Tea – Dianne’s Vegan Kitchen

Published: Nov 27, 2019 · Modified: Apr 14, 2023 by Dianne · This post may contain affiliate links

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Full of herbs and spices known for their healing properties, this amped-up Sinus Buster Tea is full of natural decongestants, and it will help get you through cold and flu season! It’s great for clearing your stuffy nose during allergy season too.

Cold and Flu Season

Cold and flu season is here! While, thankfully, I haven’t had a cold in while, I do occasionally catch them. (Yes, even health coaches get sick!) I don’t have sinus cavities in my forehead, so my sinuses don’t drain properly. For me, colds almost always turn into sinus infections. They’re never any fun, so I’m always on defense, trying to prevent them with naturally remedies.

I also have a lot of allergies, and I feel like I’m constantly battling a stuff nose. Amped-up herbal tea to the rescue!

Natural Cold Remedies

I like to turn to natural remedies to get me through colds, so I turn herbal teas such as Throat Coat and Breath Easy from Traditional Medicinals. I also take turmeric for its anti-inflammatory properties, ginger for its many health benefits, and lemon for its ability to decreases the strength of the cold and flu virus in the body.

Since I’m prone to sinus infections, so I also like to drink apple cider vinegar, which is known to thin mucus, and I also turn to hot spices to help open the nasal passages.

If a cold gets particularly nasty, I’ll also reach for the oregano oil, which has antiviral and antibacterial properties, can thin mucus, and open nasal passages. Oregano oil is pretty rough on the taste buds, but it works.

Sinus Buster Tea

I usually use all of these different things separately, so I’m constantly getting up and going into the kitchen to make a new drink or take a different supplement. The last time I had a cold, I just wanted to stay put in my warm and comfy bed, so decided to throw it all together in a pot and make a hot tea. This Sinus Buster Tea helped me to feel better in no time.

What You Need

• Water
• Lemon juice
• Apple cider vinegar
• Fresh ginger root
• Fresh turmeric
• Black pepper
• Cayenne pepper
• Herbal tea bag such as Breath Easy or Throat Coat
• Food grade oregano oil (optional)

How To Make Sinus Buster Tea

Sinus buster tea is super easy to make!

• You just throw all of the ingredients together in a pot and stir it all together.
• Bring the mixture to a boil and then let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
• Then, you strain the tea and pour it into a mug.
• Drink up!

If you’re feeling daring, you can add a little fresh minced horseradish or garlic to the mix for an extra cold-fighting boost.

Also take a look at my tips for relieving sinus infections, fighting the flu and for strengthening your immune system.

Sinus Buster Tea

Dianne

Herbal Sinus Buster Tea will help clear your stuffy nose, get rid of your sinus infection, and help with your allergies.

4.86 from 7 votes

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Servings 1 cup

Calories 37 kcal

• ½ cup water
• ¼ cup lemon juice
• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon fresh minced ginger root or ¼ teaspoon dried ground
• 1 teaspoon fresh minced turmeric or ¼ teaspoon dried ground
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 Herbal tea bag such as Breath Easy or Throat Coat
• 1 drop oregano oil optional (make sure it’s food grade oil)

• In a small pot over medium heat mix together the water, lemon juice. apple cider vinegar, ginger root, turmeric, black pepper, and cayenne. Stir everything together and then add the tea bag.

• Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat and then reduce the heat to medium and allow the mixture to simmer for 10 minutes.

• Strain the mixture with a fine mesh colandar and pour the tea into a mug. Add the drop of oregano oil, if using. Drink while the tea is still warm.

If you’re feeling daring, you can add a little fresh minced horseradish or garlic to the mix for an extra cold-fighting boost.

Calories: 37kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 0.5g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.04g | Sodium: 11mg | Potassium: 182mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 214IU | Vitamin C: 25mg | Calcium: 18mg | Iron: 1mg

Tried this recipe?Tag @diannewenz on Instagram!

Other Drink Recipes you Might Enjoy Include:

• Gingerbread Tea Latte
• Mulled Apple Cider
• Mulled Wine
• My Favorite Green Juice

About Dianne

Dianne Wenz is a Certified Holistic Health Coach, Vegan Lifestyle Coach, Plant-Based Diet Nutrition Specialist, and Plant-Based Chef, as well as the author of Truly Healthy Vegan Cookbook.

Reader Interactions

7 best cold drinks | Shchotizhnevik PHARMACY

With the onset of cold weather, each of us is faced with such a “wonderful” phenomenon as a cold. However, before resorting to pharmaceuticals, it is worth remembering the usual natural products that will help you heal on your own.

1. Tea with honey and lemon

The most versatile and long known way to cure a cold is to drink plenty of warm/hot tea. Black or green tea with a slice of lemon and honey is the most familiar to us, but few people know why it is so useful for colds.

Lemon is rich in vitamin C, which stimulates the immune system and speeds up the healing process. Also, lemon has pronounced antiseptic and bactericidal properties, since its peel contains essential oils, pectins and phytoncides. Honey contains almost all vitamins, glucose and fructose, as well as many minerals, trace elements and enzymes necessary for our body.

The combination of all these nutrients will help you recover quickly and tasty.

2. Raspberry tea

Raspberries, in addition to other useful substances, various trace elements and vitamins, also contain organic acids, including salicylic. Thanks to this acid, raspberries have antipyretic properties and are so useful for colds. For brewing tea, raspberry jam, grated fresh berries, dry berries and leaves are suitable – in general, everything that is at hand.

3. Rosehip tea

Another excellent source of vitamin C, in addition to lemon, is rose hips. Rose hips also contain many trace elements and minerals (iron, sodium, phosphorus, etc.). Rosehip tea is useful for colds, as well as beriberi, helps to overcome winter blues and eliminates fatigue.

4. Ginger tea

Many people have heard about the beneficial properties of ginger. It has bactericidal, diaphoretic, analgesic and antioxidant effects. In addition, ginger copes well with coughs, clearing the upper respiratory tract.

5. Herbal tea for colds

Medicinal plants are a real natural storehouse of health, which will help to effectively deal with colds without pharmacy products.

The simplest recipe for herbal tea for colds: while brewing ordinary tea, add a whisper of dried mint, lemon balm, thyme or linden to the teapot. Also, chamomile tea is perfect for the onset of a cold, as it has a mild anti-inflammatory effect.

6. Mulled wine

One of the most effective drinks in the fight against colds is, oddly enough, mulled wine. Due to the bactericidal and antiseptic properties, cloves help fight colds and bacteria. The presence of B vitamins has a beneficial effect on the nervous system, increasing stress resistance. And the nutmeg in mulled wine acts as a tonic, hence improving the overall health of your body. It is better to drink the drink at night, and in the morning you will feel much better.

7. Tea with cognac

Tea with cognac against a cold, drunk at night, will relieve a cold: it will eliminate chills, relieve headaches, cause profuse sweating and improve sleep. To prepare it, you should brew ordinary black tea and add 2 tablespoons of cognac and 1 teaspoon of honey to a glass of liquid.

APTEKA Weekly press service

What to drink with a cold: 10 anti-viral drinks

What to drink

Polina Chernyshova, Alexandra Zalesskaya

2 October 2019 17:25

Tea with garlic and black pepper, dogwood jam, pu-erh and fir cone syrup, turmeric and vegetable milk – restaurateurs, chefs and journalists tell what drinks they prepare at home for prevention or during a cold.

“For many years I have been dealing with the main preventive-healing drink of all known – tea. Naturally, I have varietal teas and recipes for tea cocktails for any occasion, including in case of a cold. Colds are different, viral and infectious, caused by hypothermia or overheating. Then you need to drink hot tea often and a lot. Red teas, dark oolongs (Wuyishan rock, Taiwanese, Guangdong), pu-erh will do. You can add (or bite) honey, lemon, ginger ale, a small portion of strong alcohol. For a sore throat, tea with milk or cream is good. I transfer the best recipes to the menus of “Tea Height” and “Pueroport” – due to the Moscow climate, they are popular all year round.

According to the classic: you need to make stronger tea, add Lavrov ginger ale from Tea Height with spices and peppers, squeeze half a lemon and put honey to taste. The previous recipe is perfectly complemented by 20-40 milliliters of whiskey or rum per cup. Just last week, he was treated like this: it was necessary to prevent the disease in any way possible – a sailing trip across the islands was coming. Whiskey plus smoked xiaozhong plus ginger ale and dark honey, wrap yourself in snood and sleep. It helped – I am writing from the island.

The second recipe is pu-erh with fir cone syrup (we produce it under the name “Cones Up!” and use it in a cocktail of the same name) plus cream. In November 2008, we started preparing the first batches of ice cream with fir cone syrup. Everyone in the tea room tried it, ate a spoonful of syrup and a cone each, treated the neighbors from the landlord’s office, among them two did not try. The next day, everyone went to work except for these two, who fell down with the flu. So we have a line of anti-viral varieties of tea ice cream and anti-viral tea cocktails.”

“I’m saving myself with viburnum – it smells specific, but works. I make a five-minute jam: I just pour boiling water over it and drink it at night. My husband did not believe for a long time, but once he tried it, he began to eat this jam in jars. For a cup of water or tea, you need one tablespoon of jam. You can use frozen, only it is better to ceiling it.

“Everyone drinks tea with ginger, lemon and honey for a cold. This is probably useful, but, in my opinion, not tasty at all. In Uzbekistan, they taught me to drink murch-choi in case of a cold and in general in cold, dank weather . It’s simple: in a well-heated teapot, you need to pour a spoon or two of black tea, about 5-7 peas of black pepper, pour boiling water and let it brew for three minutes. It acts like a good bath, only not from the outside, but from the inside. Be careful: you can’t take it on an empty stomach. ”

“Once upon a time, I was seriously involved in dancing – we were constantly invited to tour in different countries. Once we traveled around Italy for a month: we lived in small northern towns. In the heat, I managed to catch a cold and lose my voice. Instead of suggesting the name of the pills in the pharmacy, my Italian friend brought a whole can of wine from my grandfather’s winery and a jar of honey . Our hotel didn’t have a stove or microwave at hand, so he poured wine into a large mug, added a spoonful of honey, a little black pepper, and left it to heat up on the balcony under the scorching sun. This homemade mulled wine had to be drunk in small sips. After it, I slept for 12 hours and woke up, if not completely healthy, then at least with a voice.

Another recipe was taught to me by my friends, yoga teachers studying Indian medicine – Ayurveda. Here, the cure for all colds is turmeric. The recipe is simple: hot milk, some turmeric, ginger, cardamom and a spoonful of honey. You can also drink this golden drink (and it really is that color) for prevention. I experiment and brew myself not only with cow’s milk, but also with vegetable milk. Increasingly, by the way, I see milk with turmeric in coffee shops: if you see a name like turmeric latte on the menu, this is it.”

“In early September, I had an internship in the kitchen of the Sal Grosso tavern in Lisbon. I flew there directly from St. Petersburg, where it was dank, but in Portugal it was as hot as 30 degrees every day. I think I caught a cold because of the temperature difference – every evening I was tormented by a cough. The head of the tavern, a Brazilian, treated me after the service with tea, which my grandmother prepared for him many years ago. He brewed green tea and added two cloves of peeled garlic to it. When I returned, I continued to do the same at home, only instead of green tea I insisted on Georgian herbs brought from a Tbilisi pharmacy disguised from the eyes of a tourist. ”

“A year ago, my partner Ksyusha Tarasova and I launched the ColorEat project. We bring different colored products that are made from a single herbal ingredient using gentle techniques. Among them is Dunaliella salina, a single-celled algae that lives in salt ponds. In order to survive, it produces huge amounts of beta-carotene – hence its bright orange color, similar to the color of turmeric. She does not have a pronounced taste. I add a teaspoon of Dunaliella to masala and drink at night” .

“I always feel sick a few hours before bed. Then I mix one tablespoon of honey and one tablespoon of turmeric – this turns into a very thick substance that cannot be swallowed whole. Then I brew tea, add a lot of ginger to it and eat a little bit of turmeric with honey. It really saved me a couple of times, and I felt like a pickle in the morning.”

“I have one sea buckthorn tea – I drink it in liters at a temperature, and it drops in half a day . First, I brew frozen sea buckthorn with boiling water, it thaws, and the water becomes just hot, then I add honey and orange juice: either freshly squeezed or store-bought from glass bottles. You need to drink 2-3 large teapots, eat nothing, and the temperature will go away. In winter, for this purpose, I always keep a package of sea buckthorn in the freezer.”

“For the first time I tried dogwood jam in Baku, and then I was waiting for it as the main present from my Azerbaijani relatives. It has a sweet and sour taste, not cloying, and goes well with garden cranberries. I crush the cranberries with a pestle, add two tablespoons of dogwood jam and put a stick of green rosemary – I once spied this in a restaurant. The aroma is cosmic. By the way, you can also add green tea – for those who are not used to drinking tea without tea.

“In general, in my childhood, no matter how it may sound, I loved to get sick and be treated. Mom used to make eucalyptus broth for me, and I listened to its aroma .