A Bit of Honey for Autumn Allergies, Colds, Coughs... Healing Powers of Honey Book 3.99 Today!

By Cal Orey

Hello to honey cures. These are tried-and-true folk remedies based on scientific studies, real-life stories, medical doctors, researchers, and beekeepers. Here, check out this trio of DIY feel-good immune system-boosting, antioxidant-rich raw honey concoctions.  These home remedies may help you to get or stay healthy this season tailored for coughs, sore throats, and insomia which can break down your immune health and let in nasty colds, seasonal flu -- and viruses!

1  COUGH (Outfox irritating hacking):  A cough is an unwelcome visitor and can make you feel terrible. Let's face it, cough medicine can be pricey, doesn't taste good, and may or may not do its job. People are inside more during colder weather so you're exposed to more germs. And if someone is coughing you may be next in line.

What Honey Rx to Use:  A teaspoon of buckwheat honey is recommended before bed. Or you can make syrup of 1 teaspoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon honey, and 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar. One teaspoon of the medicinal mix should suffice. Repeat as needed.

Why You'll Bee Happy:  Researchers discovered that buckwheat honey at bedtime was more powerful for curing a cough than a cough suppressant found in over-the-counter medications. It is believed that honey will act as a sedative to the nervous system.

2 SORE THROAT (Take the sting away): Hacking is miserable, but a sore throat can drag you down, too, where don't feel like talking. Honey has been used as a home remedy for centuries to help soothe one of the symptoms associated with a common cold--namely, a killer tell-tale sore throat. February is a popular month for colds and flu which can be accompanied by a raspy throat.

What Honey Rx to Use:  For relief of symptoms, sip a cup of anti-inflammatory tea (black, white, green or herbal like chamomile) with honey. Also, try pure honeycomb and honey sticks. Don't forget all-natural honey-lemon lozenges, which also coat the throat for quick relief. (Yes, I did use these, too. Go for the all-natural kind.)

Why You'll Bee Happy: One, honey will coat your sore throat, the symptom of the cause. Two, its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties will help heal the culprit causing your pain.

3 INSOMNIA  (Find sweet dreams): Getting rid of a sore throat is a challenge. But not getting adequate shut-eye during the pain can drain the immune system, leaving you more vulnerable to colds and flu.

What Rx to Use: Take 1 or 2 teaspoons of your favorite honey, especially before going to bed. Try sipping a cup of 2 percent low-fat milk with a dash of cinnamon.

Why You'll Bee Happy:  The tryptophan in milk will help to calm you. Honey, report medical doctors, can calm your nervous system, giving you a relaxing effect on the body and mind.

          So, go ahead and use the type of honey advised or your own preference; all-natural, raw honey, dark varietals are recommended for best results. (Warning: To avoid infant botulism, do not fee honey to an infant.)

Adapted from The Healing Powers of Honey, 1st edition; NEW recipes in the Revised & Updated edition 2026 (Kensington) by Cal Orey.

Cal Orey, M.A. Is an author and journalist. Her books include the Healing Powers Series (Vinegar, Olive Oil, Chocolate, Honey, Coffee, Tea, Superfoods and Essential Oils) published by Kensington. (The collection has been featured by the Good Cook Book Club.) Her website is www.calorey.com 

Extreme Dander October 27 Tahoe! How to Quell Pesky Symptoms

 Achoo! Extreme Dander & Dust Coming Late October

  

By Cal Orey, M.A.

Woke up to the usual furry alarm clocks: a double-coated Australian Shepherd on my feet and a big orange really fluffy tabby cat using my side as a heating pad. While their morning greeting were heartwarming, my throat felt like sandpaper, and I destroyed the cozy scene with an “achoo!” twice. “A cold?” I pondered. A quick peek at a purple bar appearing in AccuWeather’s health section for South Lake Tahoe confirmed the true culprits: Extreme Dander and Dust. So, instead of braving allergy symptoms, I uncovered the secrets to a less sneezy-filled existence.

Yeah, dander and dust can affect people of all ages. Adds the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, seniors and elderly with existing respiratory conditions like asthma or allergies, may feel more than less symptoms. Kids, too, can be susceptible due to their developing immune systems and smaller airways, points out American Academy of Pediatrics.

In a region with dry, cold air, such as Lake Tahoe, dander and dust can be worse because dry air can suspend these particles and irritate mucous membranes, triggering warning signs like a sore throat, sneezing, itchy eyes, and watery eyes.

Easy Checklist

Here, must-have tips from the AAAAI, and my first-hand experience from living in the mountains:

ü  Use a humidifier: A cool-mist humidifier can add moisture to the air, which helps to soothe irritated airways and prevent mucous membranes from drying out.

ü  Turn on an air purifier (or two): An air purifier with a HEPA filter can remove dander, dust, and other allergens from the air in bedrooms or living areas.

ü  Vacuum with a HEPA filter vacuum and dust. Capture dust and dander from surfaces.

ü  Wash bedding regularly: Wash sheets/comforters in hot water to kill dust mites and remove dander.

ü  Manage Pet Dander. Wipe pets with a damp cloth to reduce dander they shed.    

ü  Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water and tea can help keep your throat moist and thin mucus, easing a raspy throat.

ü  Medications: Over-the-counter or prescription antihistamines, nasal sprays, and eye drops can alleviate symptoms.

By using these pet smart tips, you can deal with dander and dust—and enjoy the cuddly fur kids--even during dry, cold Tahoe winter days.

CAL OREY, M.A., is a bestselling author-novelist specializing in topics such as adventure, health, nutrition, and science. She holds a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in English (Creative Writing) from San Francisco State University. Her books include the popular Healing Powers series. The new, revised 2nd ed. of a popular Healing Powers of Honey, Revised book, 2026 is available, achieving best seller status, on sale Amazon; and The Healing Powers of Olive Oil, 3^rd ed. is in progress.   She is a South Lake Tahoe local. Her website is www.calorey.com

Healing Powers of Honey Guards Against Fall Superbugs...

 Books & Literature

Courtesy Cal Orey

Cal Orey Wins 2026 Hollywood Book Awards Best Health & Wellness Honor for The Healing Powers of Honey, Revised & Updated
20 Oct, 2026, 11:37 AM (EDT)
The revised and updated edition earns recognition for its exploration of honey's nutritional properties, culinary traditions, scientific research and new data about vanishing honeybees linked to extreme weather events and viruses.
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. (PinionNewswire)
Bestselling author and journalist Cal Orey has won the Best Health & Wellness category at the 2026 Hollywood Book Awards for The Healing Powers of Honey. The recognition is confirmed by the awards program’s official 2026 Winners & Finalists listing, which identifies Orey’s book as the category winner.
Guard Against Cold & Virus Season for Just 3.99!
The award announcement comes as consumers prepare for winter, when conversations about nutrition, food preparation and everyday wellness routines often receive renewed attention.
“You don’t have to let holiday travel and stress derail your health,” Orey said. “This book encourages readers to explore honey, nutrition and everyday habits as part of a thoughtful approach to seasonal well-being.”
Beyond nutrition and cooking, the revised edition examines the relationship between honeybees, climate change and extreme weather affecting both humans and honeybees.
Prepare yourself with antioxidant-rich honey varietals and Mediterranean foods and new recipes to boost your immune system before the superbugs hit and during an El Niño event when seasonal respiratory illnesses spread more easily.
Both 2026 paperback and ebook new editions are official Amazon Bestsellers  in the Antioxidant category.
All through October, grab the bestselling The Healing Powers of Honey, Revised & Updated ebook on special sale. Prepare yourself with antioxidant-rich honey varietals and Mediterranean foods and new recipes to boost your immune system before the superbugs hit.
Official Publisher Listing:
https://lnkd.in/gKavYQRg
Amazon:
Amazon.com : 9780806545721
About Cal Orey
Cal Orey, M.A., is a dynamic bestselling author-journalist with over 40 captivating books to her name. With a sharp focus on health, nutrition, and science and a deep love for pets, she is a gifted, versatile storyteller. Best known for her popular Healing Powers series, she has also written numerous other nonfiction book as well as novels.

The Healing Powers of Honey, Revised--SOS for Autumn Colds and Superbugs!

Do you know The Healing Powers of Honey, Revised landed in the mix of these autumn reads? Seasonal colds and flu also have arrived...Antioxidant-rich honey varietals come to the rescue! Available at all bookstores!

Achoo! Extreme Dander & Dust Coming Late October

  Mastering Extreme Dander & Dust Secrets to Quell Pesky Symptoms

By Cal Orey, M.A.

Woke up to the usual furry alarm clocks: a double-coated Australian Shepherd on my feet and a big orange really fluffy tabby cat using my side as a heating pad. While their morning greeting were heartwarming, my throat felt like sandpaper, and I destroyed the cozy scene with an “achoo!” twice. “A cold?” I pondered. A quick peek at a purple bar appearing in AccuWeather’s health section for South Lake Tahoe confirmed the true culprits: Extreme Dander and Dust. So, instead of braving allergy symptoms, I uncovered the secrets to a less sneezy-filled existence.

Yeah, dander and dust can affect people of all ages. Adds the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, seniors and elderly with existing respiratory conditions like asthma or allergies, may feel more than less symptoms. Kids, too, can be susceptible due to their developing immune systems and smaller airways, points out American Academy of Pediatrics.

In a region with dry, cold air, such as Lake Tahoe, dander and dust can be worse because dry air can suspend these particles and irritate mucous membranes, triggering warning signs like a sore throat, sneezing, itchy eyes, and watery eyes.

Easy Checklist

Here, must-have tips from the AAAAI, and my first-hand experience from living in the mountains:

ü  Use a humidifier: A cool-mist humidifier can add moisture to the air, which helps to soothe irritated airways and prevent mucous membranes from drying out.

ü  Turn on an air purifier (or two): An air purifier with a HEPA filter can remove dander, dust, and other allergens from the air in bedrooms or living areas.

ü  Vacuum with a HEPA filter vacuum and dust. Capture dust and dander from surfaces.

ü  Wash bedding regularly: Wash sheets/comforters in hot water to kill dust mites and remove dander.

ü  Manage Pet Dander. Wipe pets with a damp cloth to reduce dander they shed.    

ü  Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water and tea can help keep your throat moist and thin mucus, easing a raspy throat.

ü  Medications: Over-the-counter or prescription antihistamines, nasal sprays, and eye drops can alleviate symptoms.

By using these pet smart tips, you can deal with dander and dust—and enjoy the cuddly fur kids--even during dry, cold Tahoe winter days.

CAL OREY, M.A., is a bestselling author-novelist specializing in topics such as adventure, health, nutrition, and science. She holds a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in English (Creative Writing) from San Francisco State University. Her books include the popular Healing Powers series. The new, revised 2nd ed. of a popular Healing Powers of Honey, Revised book, 2026 is available, achieving best seller status, on sale Amazon; and The Healing Powers of Olive Oil, 3^rd ed. is in progress.   She is a South Lake Tahoe local. Her website is www.calorey.com

Fend Off Colds and Flu, Naturally

 News | Nov 3, 2024 Tahoe Daily Tribune

Cal Orey, M.A.

It's here. Seasonal respiratory bugs are on the rise according to health experts. Now is time to guard your immune health and stock up your arsenal to stay healthy during autumn days when it's colder outdoors and we are indoors and vulnerable to germs and superbugs...

Yes, You Can Protect Yourself This Fall Season with 5 Home Remedies

Different bugs are here! Imagine: You’re watching an older sci-fi thriller like “I Am Legend” or “Contagion” on the small screen. Then reality hits. It’s not a thriller movie—it’s real life. Welcome to the cold and flu season—and viruses–invading our tourist town.

The good news: We are not powerless. There are natural strategies you can put to work to help stave off getting ill this year and help you to stay well during the upcoming holiday season.

Scrub Away Germs for Good, Unwind, Breathe, Power Up with Nutrient Richness, Tea Time: Relax and Refresh

1. Wash hands – Scrub Away Germs for Good

Hand sanitizers kill germs, but there is something even better to deter spreadable viruses. Doctors will tell you scrubbing your hands with plain soap and water for 20 seconds will lower your risk of these bugs. Plus, most doctors advise getting a flu shot—if you haven’t–for an added defense of viruses.

• Eat superfoods – Power Up with Nutrients Richness

What you eat matters, too.  Our immune system is a network of cells, tissues, and organs that requires essential vitamins and minerals to be functional at its best.  Eating superfoods “functional foods” comes to the rescue. Stacks of research shows a balanced diet rich in antioxidants and nutrients A, C, D, B12, and zinc all play a role in bolstering immune function to protect against the superbugs. A tip: Eat dark chocolate. A 1.5-ounce bar of quality dark chocolate has as much antioxidant power as a 5-ounce glass of wine.

• Drink tea – Tea Time: Relax and Refresh

Thankfully, scientists at the University of Surrey say an antioxidant in green tea can help get rid of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Researchers believe that epigallocatechin (EGCG) can restore the action of aztreonam, an antibiotic used to treat infections caused by bacteria. Sip a few cups of the brew daily for the most health benefits. Add dark honey for more antioxidant power to keep you well.

• Chill out – Unwind and Find Your Zen

De-stressing is also important during an outbreak which is nerve-wracking with frightening facts and fear of the unknown. A contagious virus, cold, and flu makes us more susceptible to infections to our immune system. 

Meanwhile, take care of you. Eating well, adequate sleep, and exercise are stay well strategies. And, of course, keeping our distance from those who are already ill is a key for self-preservation and staying well.  So, be prepared and chill.

• Germ-Fighting Four Thieves Rx

In the Middle Ages, four robbers in France stole belongings from sufferers of the Black Plague. The thieves’ antidote for survival was the herbal solution they used during looting. In a spray bottle, combine 48 ounces apple cider vinegar, 2 drops eucalyptus oil, 2 drops lavender oil, 2 drops lemon oil, and 3 cloves garlic. Vinegar, essential oils, and herbs contain antibacterial and antiviral compounds. Wipe surfaces to destroy germs.

CAL OREY, M.A., is a bestselling author-novelist specializing in topics such as adventure, health, romance, and science. She holds a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in English (Creative Writing) from San Francisco State University. Her books include the popular Healing Powers series, and the new updated and revised 2nd edition of the number #1 hit The Healing Powers of Honey, Revised (Amazon sale ebook format for Oct.); the classic edition is still available in 5 formats. Her website is http://www.calorey.com

California Sliding into the Sea

Cal Orey, M.A.

(Published in Oracle Visionary October)

West Coast Waves...King Tides October 24...

There is a buzz about super El Niño coming to us this fall and winter. The word is, it will be super catastrophic like a Noah’s Ark sequel in many regions. So, take a deep breath, and let’s dive into what may happen in the United States…

What El Niño Means for Winter 2026–2027

Researchers note the October–December anomaly are the criteria for a “strong” to potentially “super” El Niño event. El Niño’s strongest winter effects typically peak January through March 2027. 

Simply put, El Ninio is a naturally occurring climate pattern known for its unusually warm ocean temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific, caused by weakening trade winds. It affects weather around the globe, not just the West Coast. South or Northeast. Indeed, it can trigger severe droughts, floods, and agricultural disruptions worldwide. Think severe droughts in parts of Australia, Indonesia, and heavy flooding and rain in parts of the southern United States, notes the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). And it is starting now…

Get a Canoe or ARK for the U.S.

Here are the major El Niño weather events and impacts for the United States, that may or may not happen:

U.S. Gulf Coast and Southeast: Look forward to a wetter winter, which brings a higher risk of heavy rainfall and severe flooding.

Southern California and the Southwest: These regions may be challenged by storm activity, extreme rainfall during the winter months, which can alleviate long-term drought but also trigger coastal erosion, mudslides, and high surf in the Gulf.

Northern U.S. and Canada: The odds are these regions are not immune and may experience warmer and drier than average winter conditions, leading to reduced snowpacks in certain regions. There’s more.

Thanks to global climate warming, El Niño creates higher temperatures, leading to risks of prolonged heatwaves. Recently, people are noting the SoCal ocean is “hot” and fear more sharks like Hawaii…

And note, during strong El Niño years, the U.S. South experiences a stormier winter climate, driven by a shifted and highly active southern jet stream that directs heavy rainfall and frequent storms across the region. Meanwhile, the Sierra Nevada mountain range often experiences a mixture of heavy winter precipitation. Think “SNAIN” or a mix of slushy rain and snow at lower lake level, thanks to warm atmospheric rivers that drop rain rather than snow at higher elevations. Perhaps the higher elevations will get good snowfall but it may battle slush, too as the season will be warmer.

Here Comes the Rain!

So, yes, the fall-winter of 2026–2027 may deliver sharp contrasts across the country. Some regions could face repeated storms, raw rain, and heavy, wet snow, while others experience milder stretches interrupted by quick cold snaps.

West Coast:  The Pacific Northwest may experience a more changeable and somewhat less dependable snow season.

South:  An active storm track may extend from Southern California and the Desert Southwest through Texas, the Gulf Coast, and the Southeast. These areas should watch for frequent storm systems, muddy fields, and surges of cold snaps.

Midwest:  When that colder air meets abundant moisture, some storms could produce sleet, freezing rain, or heavy, wet snow. The Rockies may get mountain snowfall.

Northeast: The Northeast may face one of the season’s most complicated winter patterns. Coastal communities could receive more rain or mixed precipitation, while inland areas may be hit by several rounds of heavy, wet snow—particularly during January and February. Last year extreme flooding hit the Pacific Northwest—it’s possible both the East and West may be under water causing mega trouble to the infrastructure, environment, and travel. And that’s not all!

 

So, Where Exactly Will the Most Precipitation Fall?

An active southern storm track is expected to bring heavier-than-normal precipitation from the Pacific including Hawaii (they have recently been getting hit with hurricanes, flooding, flash floods). California (during the Harvest Moon and King Tides) has experienced huge waves, coastal erosion, flooding), and the Southwest eastward through Texas, the Gulf Coast, and the Southeast will likely experience nature’s wrath, too. A second storm path may guide weather systems along the Eastern Seaboard, bringing additional opportunities for rain, wintry mixes, and snow from the mid-Atlantic into New England. Note: The cold rain may morph into a slushy snowfall into a significant winter storm or more.

The Bottom Line: Winter 2026–2027 may be defined by contrasts: an active and wet southern storm track, quick bursts of snow and cold across the North, and a particularly unpredictable mix of precipitation in the Northeast.  Best advice: Prepare now with food, water, pet food, and medicines. Keep the snow shovel, rain boots, and ice scraper close at hand. This winter, you may need all three.

 

California Nightmare: Sliding into the Sea

News Flash:  The Golden State announced a state of emergency for El Niño. Governor Gavin Newsom proclaimed a state of emergency to trigger resources, stage flood-fighting equipment, and prepare infrastructure for a potentially historic El Niño storm season… As a native Californian I survived El Niño episodes, bringing memories of extreme weather, heavy rainfall, severe coastal erosion, and widespread flooding to the state.

·       1982–1983 El Niño: Triggered torrential downpours and severe winter storms across California and Santa Cruz Mountains; residents had to travel in canoes! Caused massive coastal erosion, destroying numerous beachfront homes. piers, and highway sections (notably along the Pacific Coast Highway). Brought heavy mountain snowpacks that later triggered massive spring snowmelt flooding in valleys.

·       1997–1998 El Niño (often grouped around the late 1990s): Reno, Nevada was underwater! Recognized as one of the strongest El Niño events of the 20th century, rivaling the 1982-1983 season. It dumped record-breaking rainfall, causing mudslides, landslides, and

 

CAL OREY, M.A., is a bestselling author-novelist specializing in topics such as adventure, health, nutrition, and science. She holds a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in English (Creative Writing) from San Francisco State University. Her books include the popular Healing Powers series. Currently, her new release The Healing Powers of Honey, Revised is available at all bookstores. Her website is http://www.calorey.com.