So...for the past few days I've had a cold. Runny nose, sore throat, cough...you know the deal. Anyway, I've been resting up, drinking chamomile and making (and eating) copious amounts of vegetable soup. However, here I am, still coughing away and blowing my nose. Time for some dirty water.    =(

What is dirty water you ask? Well...it's a little term my sister in law and I came up with to describe the tincture my mother in law makes us drink when we have a cold. She prepares 1 liter of water with 16-30 drops of Goldenseal extract and forces us to finish it throughout the day. But it tastes like...well, dirty water!

Goldenseal is an anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial herb with an EXTREMELY bitter taste. It kills the bacteria in the mucous membrane that's causing the infection. (p.s. You know it's an infection when the mucous is yellow or green. Sorry, but yes, we are getting down and dirty). After one day (i.e. one liter) of this bitter "dirty water" my cold and all of its nasty symptoms usually disappear for good. So why have I waited so long to go pick up this magical little herb?

...yep, the taste! It's that bad.

{Side Note: Goldenseal is also a great digestion aid! The bitterness stimulates appetite and bile secretion.}

So now that I've reminded myself of the quick relief that lies one Whole Foods trip away, it's off I go to heal myself with my dirty water and stop whining about a little bitter aftertaste. (I've got to convince myself somehow). Maybe I'll chase it with some OJ! ;)

Stay healthy this holiday season! Drink up your dirty water!!!

Warmly yours,

Elizabeth

*Goldenseal also comes in a pill or powder form. Follow instructions on all packaging or check with your doctor before using if you have any questions.