As the weather cools down here in the Midwest, it feels like everyone’s starting to sniffle or complain about feeling “a little off.” It’s officially cold and flu season, which means it’s time to pull out some of my favorite kitchen remedies. In my coursework, we’re currently learning around 160 different herbal formulas (yes, 160!) for all kinds of diagnoses, but sometimes it’s nice to remember that simple things we already have at home can also support our health in meaningful ways.
Best Natural Ingredients
One of my go-to ingredients this time of year is fresh ginger (Sheng Jiang). In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), it’s warm and pungent, helping to release the exterior and promote a light sweat when that first chill hits. Something as simple as slicing it fresh, steeping it in hot water and adding a little honey is effective and tasty. It’s soothing for the throat, gently warms the body, and feels like a cozy hug in a mug.
Another favorite is garlic (Da Suan). Besides being delicious, it’s known in TCM for helping to expel cold pathogens and support digestion. If you start feeling that sluggish, heavy feeling before a cold hits, you can toss extra garlic into a veggie broth or stir fry. It helps move things through and feels like it kicks your system back into gear. Then there’s cinnamon (Gui Zhi), the perfect spice for cold weather. It helps warm the channels, supports yang energy, and keeps circulation moving. Sometimes I’ll mix cinnamon with a little lemon in hot water for a simple, balancing tea that wakes up my senses.
Ancient Wisdom in Foods
Learning all these complex herbal formulas in class has really made me appreciate how much ancient wisdom can also be found in everyday foods. Supporting our Wei Qi (defensive energy) doesn’t have to be complicated, it’s about staying warm, eating mindfully, and using simple herbs with intention. So next time you feel a cold coming on, check your pantry first before heading for the medicine cabinet. You might already have some of the best medicine waiting for you!
