14. Licorice Root Tea
Licorice root (also known as “sweet root”) contains glycyrrhizic acid, which is an antiviral substance. Other phytochemicals in the root are anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal. Plus, licorice soothes inflamed lung and mucous tissue.
Beware: pregnant women and people with hypertension or kidney disease should avoid licorice root. Do not drink licorice root tea daily for more than 7 days.
How to make licorice tea:
Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon of dried licorice root
- 4 ounces of water
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
- Remove from heat and root.
- Steep for 5 minutes.
- Enjoy hot and breathe in the vapor as you drink.
15. Coltsfoot Tincture
Coltsfoot flowers look very similar to dandelions and are equally medicinal. In fact, the herb effectively treats bronchitis, pneumonia, asthma, and tuberculosis. In particular, it’s great at reducing inflammation. (21) However, it’s best not to use it long-term.
Here’s how to make the tincture:
- Chop the flowers and herbs into small pieces.
- Fill a glass jar with chopped coltsfoot.
- Completely cover coltsfoot with 80-100-proof vodka and screw on the lid.
- Date the jar and cover in a cool, dark place.
- In six weeks, filter out the plant matter and save the liquid.
- Place in a dark-tinted bottle with an eyedropper lid.
- Take 2-4 ml a day, as needed.
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