Battle a cold or flu with these 3 delicious drinks

Warm, delicious drinks that ease cold and flu symptoms are easy to make. These ideas will help you relax and rest until you get better.

Apple cider vinegar is a popular cold remedy. One example that's particularly good for sinus infections offers a combination of apple cider vinegar, water and cayenne pepper:

• 65 ml boiling water
• 65 ml unfiltered apple cider vinegar
• 15 ml honey
• 0.5 g cayenne pepper
• 1 lemon wedge

Combine the water and vinegar. Stir in the honey and pepper, and squeeze the lemon on top. This spicy brew will have you breathing easier with one sniff. The cayenne offers wonderful anti-inflammatory properties and the vinegar boosts the immune system.

This recipe combines the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of turmeric and ginger in a warm, soothing drink. This easy recipe is particularly versatile because it allows you to use either fresh or dried versions of the main ingredients.

• 500 ml of milk (regular or coconut milk)
• 0.5 g dried turmeric (or 13 mm fresh turmeric)
• 0.5 g dried ginger (or 13 mm fresh ginger)
• A sprinkle of black pepper
• Honey to taste

If you're using fresh ingredients, slice them thinly or finely dice them for best infusion. Gently warm all the ingredients in a saucepan over medium low heat. Be sure not to scald or overheat the mixture. Stir occasionally until it starts to simmer. Then, simmer for a few minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat, cover, and let it sit for 10 minutes to infuse fully. Strain out the fresh ingredients and add the honey. Sip it as is or infuse it in your favourite tea drinks.

Sage tea is not only soothing because of its warmth, it also provides antiseptic and antibacterial benefits. This drink can put you on the road to recovery.

• 1 g dry or rubbed sage (or about six fresh sage leaves)
• 250 ml boiling water
• 15-20 ml fresh lemon juice
• A couple of pinches cayenne pepper (optional)
• 15 ml honey (or to taste)

Steep the sage in the boiling water for 10 minutes. Strain the water and add the remaining ingredients. For best results, reheat it to serve hot.

These drinks feature ingredients that many other cultures have been using for centuries thanks to their medicinal value. Now that you have the secrets of the ages at your fingertips, you can chase away those cold and flu symptoms with every warm and relaxing sip. Get well soon!