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Homemade Tonics to Cure Whatever Ails You

No matter what your ailment is, there's a tonic out there to cure it. Check out these homemade herbal concoctions to find which one fits the bill.
Image may contain Plant Food Grapefruit Fruit Citrus Fruit Produce Drink and Beverage
Michael Graydon + Nikole Herriott

Every year, at the first sign of a stuffy nose, the staffers at Bon Appétit head to the Test Kitchen, seeking out Brad Leone for help. No, Brad is not a doctor—he's the BA Test Kitchen manager—but he's so much more.

Can't find an obscure fruit? Brad's got a guy. Need to sharpen your knife? Brad's already wielding his steel. And best of all, if you're feeling fatigued, he'll mix one of his signature tonics to put you right quick. Come cold season, every editor seems to tote a plastic quart container filled with one of his powerful elixirs made with fruits, herbs, and mysterious tinctures. It's contagious, see?

We rounded up Brad's best tonics, plus a few other powerful, drinkable remedies. Bottoms up!

  • Image may contain Jar
    Michael Graydon + Nikole Herriott
    1/8

    BA Brad’s Classic Tonic

    This also makes a tasty spritzer—use club soda in place of water.

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  • Image may contain Plant Food Grapefruit Fruit Citrus Fruit Produce Drink and Beverage
    Michael Graydon + Nikole Herriott
    2/8

    Cleansing Tea

    Nutrients are lost when ingredients boil, so steep this cold-and-flu-buster at a relatively low temperature.

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  • Image may contain Drink Lemonade Beverage Vase Plant Pottery Potted Plant Jar Mint Herbs and Planter
    Danny Kim
    5/8

    Brad's Prevention Tonic

    Ginger and turmeric have anti-inflammatory powers, the juices deliver vitamin C, and staying hydrated is always a good idea. As for the Quantum Cold & Flu Liquid Extract? It’s touted as a “highly effective” herbal elixir. We’ll take their word for it.

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  • Alex Lau
    6/8

    The Cough Suppressant

    Be careful not to boil the tea. It will give you a cleaner flavor and be more nutrient-rich.

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