Sometimes I write from the heart.
Sometimes I write because I need to sort through my own thoughts and emotions.
Sometimes I write as a way to document life.
Other times, I just have a lot running through my mind so putting down on paper makes me feel accomplished.
Today is different. This is just an FYI because it’s a game changer. #yourewelcome
I totally get a mancold. I hate having a cold more than just about anything. Head pounding. No sleep. Can’t breathe. Can’t taste food. No energy (thanks to the no sleep.) Blowing your nose until it’s raw. Becoming a mouth breather. Ugh. It’s horrible. And yes, I realize that’s dramatic but it’s really how I feel. I’d rather have a 24-hour stomach bug than a cold for a week.
Are you ready for the cure?
Black Elderberry syrup by Sambucol.
Ok, maybe cure is a little bit of a strong word but it’s the closest thing I’ve seen to a miracle. Megan told me about this last spring and I’ve used it 3 times now. As soon as I feel a tiny bit of congestion or a little tickle in my throat, I start taking it as quickly as possible. I gulp the aggressive dose every 4 hours for several days and I’ve found that the cold’s symptoms are very minimal. It’s like it never develops to that stage that knocks me on my booty.
I’m currently on day 4 of the Black Elderberry. I’m blowing my nose but it’s sporadically instead of nonstop. I still have energy to do all the things. I’m still sleeping well.
Seriously. It’s a game changer.
I’m also a fan of the more of a natural approach than the typical Mucinex or Robitussin and it’s about the same price so you literally can’t beat that.
Just in case you were wondering, we only have one case of the mancold in this house. David doesn’t suffer.
I’ve had several questions since I posted this, so here are a few updated points.
1. Do you give it to Ari? Yes, I have. I usually give her about an ounce every day while she was sick. David has pointed out that the bottle says something about not recommended for children under 4 years.
2. Where do you buy it? You can buy it at any local pharmacy. I’ve noticed that it’s several dollars cheaper at WalMart than CVS or WalGreens. Some pharmacies have it behind the counter but you don’t need a prescription. If they’re out of stock, they’ll usually order it for you.
When I posted this on Facebook, a friend from Winston commented that she makes her own with a different type of elderberry syrup and honey. I had mom run out and grab some of that syrup for me — the main difference I noticed was that it didn’t have sugar. I never really found a recipe for how to make a new concoction. When I took that more natural syrup by itself, it made my stomach hurt unless I also had a bite of food to go along with it.
I’m clearly not a doctor. Don’t take this as medical advice; it’s just my experience.