COVID-19 has placed unsurpassed stress on our minds, nervous systems, and, of course, respiratory systems.

Australia has experienced firsthand the impact of wildfire smoke and as a result, many have suffered from headaches, bloody noses, dry, stinging eyes and lightheadedness.

So, what exactly is it in the smoke that has such a detrimental effect on our bodies?

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) website, when we inhale wildfire smoke, “the biggest health threat is from fine particles. These microscopic particles can penetrate deep into your lungs. They can cause a range of health problems, from burning eyes and a runny nose to aggravated chronic heart and lung diseases”.

With the health risks involved with wildfires, along with the coronavirus pandemic showing no signs of letting up with a new variant as common as the cold, we felt called to share with you a Respiratory & Immune Support Syrup.

This syrup is designed to nourish the lungs, pacify coughing, reduce congestion, alleviate inflammation and overall boost your ojas or physical and subtle immunity.

RESPIRATORY & IMMUNE SUPPORT SYRUP

Elderberry Syrup Ingredients:

1 cup dried elderberries 4 cups water 1 cinnamon stick ½ tsp cardamom, decorticated seeds ½ tsp ginger, dried ½ tsp liquorice, dried ¾ cup raw honey Directions:

Combine dried elderberries, water, cinnamon, cardamom and ginger in a medium size saucepan and bring to a simmer. Slowly cook the mixture until the liquid is reduced by half. Remove from heat and allow it to cool completely. Strain the syrup into a bowl, squeezing out any excess liquid from the elderberries. Next, add the raw honey and stir to combine. As your elderberry syrup reduces, continue with the second portion of the recipe: Respiratory Tea Ingredients:

0.5 oz fresh or dried mullein leaf 0.25 oz fresh or dried thyme 0.25 oz fresh or dried peppermint 16 oz boiling water Directions:

Pour 16oz of fresh boiling water over mullein, thyme and peppermint. Cover and let steep for 30 minutes. Strain herbs from tea.

Lastly, add 1 oz of Respiratory Tea to the Elderberry Syrup, stir to combine. You can enjoy 1 tablespoon of this syrup daily for overall support or for acute ailments such as cold, flu and/or reducing congestion and/or cough, take 1 tablespoon three times per day.

Please note, if you desire a sweeter syrup, simply add more honey to taste. Also, apple cider vinegar is another nice addition to this recipe. Add 30mls or more to taste when you add the Respiratory Tea to the syrup. When stored in the refrigerator, your Respiratory & Immune Support Syrup should last for 2-3 weeks. LOOKING FOR MORE WAYS TO SUPPORT THE RESPIRATORY SYSTEM? We highly encourage you to utilise the Ayurvedic practices of neti and nasya. These ancient rituals help to protect the nasal passageways from pollution and airborne pathogens as well as bring much needed oleation or moisture into the nose. If you are feeling the onset of a sore throat, try our easy to make Throat Herbal Tea remedy or demulcent rich Hydrate Blend Tea.