Ailment: Common cold

Remedy: Ginger tea

Take a piece of fresh ginger, the size of your thumbnail, or bigger if you like your tea strong. Crush it, put it in a mug and fill with hot or boiling water. Leave it to steep for 5 minutes.

Fresh ginger is available at most grocers and Asian stores. Dried ginger powder has different properties and is not as effective. Similarly, ginger tea bags are not very effective.

Comment posted by Paul of Camberley, Surrey, United Kingdom on 19 August 2011 at 2:24       492

YES
I am now 80 and for almost 4 years I have taken a quarter level teaspoon of powdered ginger every day without fail. Instead of my life-long problem of 3 colds and 2 doses of flu per year I have had no trace of either. And no trace of side effects except for a feeling of improved well-being. Try it for yourself.

Remedy (new) posted by David Niven Miller of Perth, WA, Australia on 29 April 2010 at 17:35       118

YES
A cup of ginger tea a couple of times per day strengthens your immune system, has a warming effect, and speeds recovery if you are suffering from a virus or bacteria. It is a warming spice, and is particularly valuable in the winter, or if you are feeling cold.