If your house is anything like ours lately we are all fighting to keep from getting a cold or the nasty version of the flu this season. We are drinking lots of fluids, to include lots of juices rich in Vitamin C. We are trying to get plenty of sleep. We are doing the hand washing thing as well.

Another thing that is often over looked is other things we can add to our diet to boast our immune system. Garlic is one of the things that is great for us. And easy to add to our diets. Another great bonus is that Garlic is inexpensive, even the organic variety can be had pretty cheap. And it does pack a punch!

Garlic has a high sulfur content. Yes, that is what gives it that strong odor. It is also what gives it antibacterial benefits. The sulfur works with Vitamin C to kill harmful microbes. Think cold and flu. Garlic is also known for its benefits for the cardiovascular system. It is good to fight off colds and good for your heart. You get a two for one deal!

Garlic is best for you chopped and eaten raw, but most people don’t like raw garlic. Try adding to your recipes at the last possible minute to get the most benefits from it.

Herbal teas have been used for centuries. The healing properties of the herbs used are infused into the teas.

Ginger tea is one of the herbal teas that has many benefits.

Ginger tea is made with the ginger root. You can purchase it as you do with any other tea. You can also make it yourself with fresh ginger root.

Purchase a 2 inch piece of ginger root. Peel the outer skin layer and slice into thin slices. 2 inches of ginger root should make about 4 cups of tea. Bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the sliced ginger root. Steep for 15 to 20 minutes. Strain the tea mixture. You can add honey and lemon to taste.

Now that you have your all natural ginger tea, what is it good for?

Ginger tea has long been used to help with stomach ailments. From upset stomachs, naseau, motion sickness, and even morning sickness.

Ginger tea can also help freshen your breath. Ginger is an anti-fungal and anti-spasmodic. It can also act as a aphrodisiac. See? Ginger can help in several aspects of your life.

Ginger is an herb and an essential oil that can be helpful in your life. Try some today. Even if you don’t want to use the root to start from scratch, try the bagged or loose leaf ginger tea. While it has a strong tangy flavor many people enjoy it. You can also use honey and lemon to make it taste more to your liking. Remember to always use local honey and fresh lemon it you can.

Holidays can be very stressful for many people. The parties, the gift giving, the events for kids and adults alike and many more things that must get done add to stress.

Holidays are meant to be a time of celebration and a time of joy. We may have to do list longer than our arms, but that doesn’t mean we need to stress out about all the little details.  There are little things we can do to help us better deal with the stress. Using essential oils is one of many ways.

The most popular essential oils that many people use to deal with stress are lavender and chamomile. Both are known for their ability to help us calm down and relax. You can use essential oils in a burner, place a few drops on your pillow and even add a few drops to your bath.

If you are a tea drinker there are teas available now that have both lavender and chamomile in them. If you can’t find these a cup of chamomile tea may be just the ticket to help you relax and take the edge off of things.

Other essential oils that can help you deal with stress are Basil, Clary Sage and even Peppermint. All of these essential oils can be used in the same methods.