Food technology -

 Both Niamh and mum have sore throats and coughs so this herbal remedy should help. It is a recipe that shows how ingredients can work together. 

Ingredients:

Coconut milk

Turmeric

Black pepper

Ginger

Tamarind

Turmeric

Honey

Lime juice

Unfortunately, the curcumin in turmeric is poorly absorbed into the bloodstream. 

However, adding black pepper can help. Research supports that combining the piperine in black pepper with the curcumin in turmeric enhances curcumin absorption by up to 2,000%. 

The fat from the coconut water also helps with the absorption of curcumin, as does serving the drink warm. Coconut water is full of electrolytes so this is excellent if someone has lost their appetite. 

Tamarind is high in vitamin C - an ingredient that can help with colds and coughs. 

Ginger is a natural antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties - important for short term health through illness but also long term health. 

After boiling up, solids should be kept in the liquid, and the liquid can be stored in the fridge for a week. (3 days if water has been added to the mixture). 

Solids can then be used in a stir fry or curry.