‘Tis the season to be germy, fa-la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la. If you’re suffering from the sniffles, have a throat that feels like you swallowed a cactus or have contracted the dreaded man-flu, try this juice which is packed with potent anti-viral and anti-inflammatory ingredients to get you feeling well again.

Pineapple Juice: A source of vitamin C which is an antioxidant and helps support the immune system, and bromelain, and enzyme which may help to break down mucus, supporting healthy nasal and respiratory airways.

Turmeric: Turmeric is a bright yellow spice commonly used in Asian food that is a member of the Zingiberaceae (ginger) family. Turmeric contains a variety of biologically-active constituents, such as curcumin, and is currently being researched for the treatment of many diseases and chronic conditions including cancer, Alzheimer’s Disease, and depression. Turmeric has anti-viral and anti-inflammatory effects and stimulates the immune system. It is commonly used in the treatment of bronchitis and respiratory infections. Fresh turmeric root is becoming more widely available – try your local farm shop (Riverford often have it) or large supermarket.

Ginger: Ginger is another of natures’ antiviral herbs. It contains nearly a dozen antiviral compounds. Ginger is pain relieving, antiseptic and antioxidant. It is valuable for preventing and treating colds, sore throats and inflammation of mucus membranes.

Horseradish: A pungent, peppery root that is related to mustard, broccoli and cabbage. Its peppery flavour is due to volatiles oils which will help to clear your airways when ingested.

Lemon Juice: Another source of vitamin C and used in many traditional cold remedies.

Honey: Honey has anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties. Look for raw honey to ensure that the honey hasn’t been heat-treated as this reduces the effectiveness. The sweetness of the honey also counteracts some of the bitterness in this recipe!

Black Pepper: Contains the compound piperine, which significantly improves the absorption of turmeric. The black pepper must be freshly ground as piperine degrades quite quickly once exposed to the air.

Recipe (makes about 500ml) 

• 1 large pineapple, topped, tailed and peeled 
• 40g fresh ginger root 
• 20g fresh turmeric root 
• 10g fresh horseradish root 
• 1 lemon 
• 1 tbsp honey (preferably local honey) 
• Black pepper

Pass the turmeric, ginger and pineapple through a juicer. Cut the lemon in half and squeeze into the juice. Add the honey and stir well. Freshly grind a little black pepper on top. Sip throughout the day.