DIY: Healing tea

HOUSTON -- It has already happened, the first bug of the season has made its way through my house! One of my best defenses against the cold and flu season is this herbal tea.

A friend shared the recipe, which has been a staple in her Columbian family for years, and I now swear by it! At the first signs of a cold I make a big pot and sip on in throughout the day.

Ingredients:

• Ginger Root sliced
• Garlic Clove sliced (optional)
• 4 springs Thyme
• cup Panela
• 4 cups Water
• lemon or lime

Directions:

Slice the ginger and garlic. Add the water and all the ingredients except for the lemon and lime and bring it to a boil. Strain and pour into a cup and add the lemon or lime.

Healing Properties:

Ginger is known to helps soothe the intestinal tract, reduce nausea and inflammation.

Garlic, among many things, is great for reducing congestion and preventing infection.

Thyme helps fight bacterial infections, soothe cough and upset stomach.