GARLIC FOR COLDS, FLUS AND SORE THROATS

What it is: We all know what garlic is—a strongly scented and flavored root used in almost every style of cooking. It’s easy to grow, inexpensive and easy to come by.

How to use it: Garlic has been touted as a miracle cure—a healthy remedy for many ailments from yeast infections to fatigue. With antifungal and antibiotic properties, this little root does have a lot of benefits, including boosting your immune system. When you’re sick, a hot bowl of chicken soup (with lots of garlic) just may clear your sinuses and speed along the healing process. It’s been well studied and proven to help give you a boost. If you can handle it, raw garlic actually works better, as cooking can dull the effects. Consider adding it to your salad dressing or after your dish is cooked to make it a little more effective.