This week, I treated approximately 34 cases of sinusitis. It was a record! One of the best and most successful ways to alleviate sinus congestion and pain is with acupuncture treatments. With allergy season being all year long, coupled with many colds and flu viruses going around, it is very easy for the sinuses to become congested. Acupuncture is a simple and effective way to clear away stubborn phlegm and alleviate pain and pressure.
Acupuncture opens the sinus passages creating more drainage and decreasing chances of bacterial infection. There are also many herbal nasal sprays and supplements that are extremely effective at staving off infection. Whether your treatments are for an acute infection, prevention, or seasonal allergies, acupuncture, herbal medicines, and teas are great tools to help get well faster!
IMMUNE BOOSTER: Lemon-Garlic-Spinach Soup
One of my most cherished recipes, lemon-garlic-spinach soup, incorporates plenty of garlic, an important food for heart health and the immune system. Garlic has a high sulfur content, which is important for regulating blood pressure and lowering cholesterol, and protecting our red blood cells from unwanted fatty-plaque build up. Garlic is also high in Vitamin C and selenium for immune boosting and fighting infection. Remember, the Vitamin C from the garlic and lemon juice will help absorb the iron from the spinach!
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 8 cloves garlic, peeled
- 2 tsp Kosher salt
- 1 can chopped tomatoes with juice
- 4 slices peeled fresh ginger, quarter size
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 tbsp fresh squeezed lemon juice
- 1 (10 oz) bag washed baby spinach
1. Combine 5 cups of water, chicken broth, or veggie broth with oil, garlic, salt, and tomatoes in a pot. Wrap ginger, rosemary, and bay leaf in cheesecloth; tie it closed with kitchen string, and add bouquet garni to the pot.
2. Bring to boil, then reduce heat to low, and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Discard bouquet garni from pot.
4. Return soup to medium heat, add lemon juice. Crush garlic against side of pot with the back of a spoon, and stir so garlic melts into soup.
5. Stir in spinach and simmer until wilted. Remove from heat and season with freshly ground pepper.
*** For added protein, add cooked beans or lentils, or some shredded chicken.
