Fall is (finally) in the air!

Hayrides, pumpkin patches, crunchy leaves and cozy jackets are all fall favorites. Now, to make sure the fabulous change of seasons doesn’t leave you sniffling, Chef Greg Gettles of The Umstead Hotel and Spa in Cary offers up this herb-a-licious elixir to help ward off the common cold.

Gettles says this vitamin-packed pick-me-up combines potassium and calcium-rich lemon and ginger — which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects — plus relaxing lavender and thyme to help relieve coughs, bronchitis, and chest congestion.

What’s not to love?

Here’s the recipe; Gettles recommends the Western Wake Farmer's Market as a source for  ingredients.

Lemon Ginger Lavender Elixir

Makes ½ gallon

2 quarts water, simmering

2 lemongrass stalks, bruised and chopped

8 lemons, peels reserved and juiced

½ pound ginger, peeled and chopped

1 cup honey

6 sprigs thyme

4 sprigs fresh lavender, or 2 tablespoons dried

In a large plastic container combine lemongrass, lemon peels, honey and lemon juice. Pour simmering water over the aromatics and mix well. Allow steeping for 10 minutes then add ginger, thyme and lavender, and allow steeping for 30 more minutes, mixing with a whisk every 10 minutes. Strain through a fine sieve and enjoy hot, or chill.   

Recipe and photo courtesy of The Umstead Hotel and Spa.