Previously written off as an old wives’ tale, research is now that consuming chicken soup is one of the more scientifically-proven ways to alleviate the signs and symptoms of the common cold. Two studies published in the prestigious Chest journal have shown that chicken soup helps alleviate cold and flu symptoms through clearing nasal mucous, reducing inflammation, improving hydration and nutrition. Here is the chicken soup recipe that they used in the trial…
Chicken Soup for Your Cold
One 2-3 kg chicken
3 large onions (chopped)
1 large sweet potato (chopped)
3 parsnips (chopped)
2 turnips (chopped)
12 large carrots (chopped)
6 celery stems (chopped)
1 bunch of parsley (chopped)
Clean the chicken and put it in a large pot and cover it with cold water.
Bring the water to boil
Chop the onions, sweet potato, carrots, parsnips and turnips (or put through a food processor).
Add the chopped vegetables and boil for approximately 90 minutes.
Remove the fat from the water surface as it accumulates.
After 90 minutes add the chopped parsley and celery.
Cook the mixture for about 45 minutes longer.
Remove the chicken. The chicken is not used further for the soup (but is excellent to use in many other dishes).
Salt and pepper to taste.
Source: Rennard , B.O. et al. Chicken soup inhibits neutrophil chemotaxis in vitro. Chest. 2000 Oct; 118 (4):1150-7
