Health Hacks

Polina Tankilevitch

In the case that you do get sick, here are some natural ways for you to get better quicker:

• Elderberry Juice/ or Gummies

While you may have never heard of this fruit before, trust me– it’s real! These berries boost your immune system, keep you out of colds, and help you recover faster. This year, I began taking the gummies daily and–knock on wood!–have stayed healthy (minus one bout with COVID). You can find these in your local grocery store or on Amazon. I recommend the Nature’s Way gummies.

• Honey

Plain and simple, honey is always a good way to go to ease a sore throat. Don’t like honey? Try stirring some honey into an herbal tea. Herbal tea by itself normally requires very little sugar, so honey provides some sweetness to an already-rich taste.

•  Take a Shower or Bath

It is no secret that baths are notoriously soothing. Taking a nice warm bath (especially if you are experiencing chills or a fever) can help you to regulate your body temperature. Bonus points if you add bath salts. Some of my favorites are chamomile, lavender, or peppermint scented.

• Garlic

This one sounds bizarre, but bear with me– swallow a clove of garlic. It sounds gross, but if you want to get rid of that sore throat, cough, and/or congestion, try this out.

• Stay Hydrated

Although this is not an quick fix, it is still very important. Keeping hydrated benefits your health, whether you are sick or not. Make sure to stay hydrated when you are healthy (and even more so when you are sick)!

If all else fails, a couple squirts of Afrin will do wonders!