Yahoo Lifestyle Better Homes and Gardens
Grow your own cold and flu remedies
1 / 13
Horseradish
Botanical name Armoracia rusticana A hardy perennial, growing to about 1m, horseradish can take over your garden, so grow it in large tubs or a raised bed. While it can be grown from seed, it’s best to use root cuttings. It prefers temperate climates but can be grown in warmer, humid areas. How to grow it: As the tubers can reach 75cm, it must have a deep bed of fertile, free-draining soil, with a pH range between 5.5 and 7. Plant 15–20cm root cuttings from early autumn to spring, and water regularly until the first leaves appear, then check soil moisture before watering to keep it moist but not wet. Harvest: Harvest in the autumn when it can be used fresh, or wash, slice and dry in a cool, airy place. Healing properties: Horseradish is great for clearing the upper respiratory tract of cold or flu symptoms. Grate it into dishes like coleslaw, or make a tincture (see slide 11), and take ¼ teaspoon in water three times a day to ease coughs and bronchitis. Top tip: Avoid large doses if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding or suffering from kidney problems. READ MORE: 13 ways to feel better naturally
Look to your garden for remedies to the common cold and flu
