FoodCranberry infusion: Your autumn ally against colds

Cranberry infusion: Your autumn ally against colds

Cranberry tea
Cranberry tea
Images source: © Adobe Stock | africa-studio.com (Olga Yastremska and Leonid Yastremskiy)

11 October 2024 15:41

When the autumn weather rages outside and the initial colds start to make themselves known, it's worth reaching for natural remedies to boost immunity. One such remedy is a cranberry drink—a true vitamin powerhouse that will not only warm you up but also shield you from infections.

Autumn is a time when we pay special attention to our health. Cold and rainy afternoons and mornings often weaken our immunity, making colds and infections everyday challenges. In such times, it's beneficial to turn to something that will warm you up and strengthen your body. While tea with lemon is a popular choice, there's a drink that can lift your spirits even more effectively—cranberry tea. This unique combination of taste and health benefits makes cranberry tea indispensable during the autumn-winter season.

Why is cranberry so healthy?

Cranberry is a small, red fruit with extraordinary health properties. They are rich in vitamins such as C, A, and E, as well as minerals including magnesium, iron, and potassium. Thanks to these properties, cranberries:

  • Boost immunity: Regular consumption of cranberries helps fight respiratory and urinary tract infections.
  • Support the urinary system: Cranberries prevent bacteria from adhering to the walls of the urinary tract, which is especially important during infections.
  • Delay aging processes: Due to their antioxidant content, cranberries combat free radicals, slowing down the body's aging processes.
  • Support heart health: Regular consumption of cranberries can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Recipe for a warming cranberry drink

Ingredients:

  • 450 grams of fresh cranberries
  • 1 litre of water
  • 1 orange
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 2 tablespoons of honey
  • Optional: a few cloves

Preparation:

  1. Cooking the cranberries: Wash them thoroughly and transfer them to a pot. Cover with water and cook for about 30 minutes until the fruit softens.
  2. Additions: Add sliced orange, the cinnamon stick, and honey to the brew. If you enjoy a more intense aroma, add a few cloves.
  3. Straining: After a few minutes, remove the pot from the heat and strain the drink through a sieve.