The irony. On the day I am to launch the new healthy lifestyle blog, I am sick. Fever, chills, sore throat, throbbing sinus headache, can-barely-haul-myself-out-of-bed sick.

            But, when life gives you lemons…

            I use medications judiciously. A travel size pack of Tylonol lasts me a year. So, naturally, I considered a non-drug method of relief.

            Lately, I’ve been reading up on Ayurvedic medicine, an ancient system of healthcare that originated in India, where it is still widely practiced.

            Don’t get me wrong. I think Western medicine is superior at treating disease (palliative.) But it falls short in promoting wellness. So, I thought I’d look to other cultures, who have a knack for creating health.

            The Ayurvedic prescription I found for my sore throat and sinus congestion: mix together a ½ teaspoon honey, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, ¼ teaspoon cardamom and ¼ teaspoon ginger, to be taken multiple times throughout the day.

            I have a weak palate and worried about the pepper. To my surprise, the honey overpowered the spices and the concoction went down smoothly. Though, afterwards, I did need to floss.

            A minute or two passed. I still hurt. With an ultra-busy day ahead of me, I wasn’t willing to gamble. Before work, I stopped at Target, went directly to the pharmacy counter and asked for “the good stuff.”

            When the pharmacist handed me a package with the words “SEVERE CONGESTION” in bright yellow letters, I knew he’d chosen wisely.

            Each “cool burst” mint-coated pill contained four medicines. They did the trick --almost. My aches and pains were replaced with a serious case of mental fog.

            Tomorrow, I’ll try the Ayurvedic remedy… if I’m not too sick.

 

            Food for thought: “Let food be your medicine and medicine be your food.” n Hippocrates Bc.

            Learn more: Accessible, practical, beautiful introduction to Ayurveda and Ayurvedic cooking: http://www.eattasteheal.com/