Soothe a sore throat with switchel | Haylie Pomroy

Soothe a sore throat with switchel

Posted on October 2, 2013

Stuck with a cold? Commercial throat drops and medicines are often loaded with sugar — it’s the first ingredient on most of them. This wonderful and easy tonic is an old recipe from the early days of farming.

The recipe dates back to colonial times. In the 1800′s, it was known as “Haymaker’s Punch.” During the hay harvest, breathing the hay particles would irritate farmers’ throats, and this drink soothed the irritation.

Ginger is the key ingredient. You can use dried ginger or fresh. Fresh ginger will make the drink more spicy and assertive, while dried ginger is more mellow. Ginger is a wonderful botanical ingredient that has natural soothing qualities. It helps relieve congestion and soothes the sinuses.

Meanwhile, apple cider vinegar is a bit of a miracle itself. It’s a wonderful anti-inflamatory that can also help soothe an upset tummy, alkalize the blood and promote detoxification.

If you’re on the Fast Metabolism Diet, use liquid stevia for the sweetener. After the diet, raw honey is wonderful, and is packed with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. (Note: Processed honey does not have these qualities, so go for raw.)

Use regular spring water — or for a little fizz, use sparkling water. What a great way to soothe a sore throat!

Throat-Soothing Switchel

2 Tbls. apple cider vinegar
9 drops liquid stevia (to taste) or 3 tsp. raw honey (after the diet only)
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger or 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
1 cup spring water or sparkling water

Combine all ingredients in a jar or glass. Cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours or overnight.

Shake or stir before serving. If using fresh ginger, strain through a sieve.

Pour over ice and serve. Add extra water or sparkling water if desired.

Also tastes great warm!

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