With the pandemic still raging strong, and countries being inundated with wave after wave, the one word that has taken center stage in everyone’s mind is ‘immunity’. More and more people across countries are googling ways to boost immunity naturally. So here’s a simple guide to helping boost your family’s immunity naturally, with products that are readily available in every Indian kitchen.
The covid Kadha or Kashayam
Nothing has gained popularity in India, during the pandemic, like the humble kadha, or kashayam as it is known in South India. Consumed through the ages, this household recipe has even been recommended by the Indian Prime minister recently. This concoction helps you build immunity naturally, while helping keep colds and coughs at bay. All it takes is a handful of common kitchen herbs and spices, to make this nourishing drink, and best of all, it’s great for the entire family, making sure everyone is protected against colds and infections naturally.
Here is the simple recipe that is both easy to make and delicious to drink, benefiting everyone greatly.
Ingredients:
2 cups of water
A pinch of turmeric powder
3 cloves
Half a teaspoon of crushed black pepper
1 inch long piece of cinnamon bark
A handful of Tusli (Holy basil) leaves
1 inch piece of fresh ginger
Juice of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons of honey
Method
Bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the turmeric, cloves, black pepper, cinnamon, ginger and crushed tulsi leaves. Boil for 10 minutes. Cool slightly before adding lemon juice and honey, strain and drink while warm.
Benefits
Turmeric powder is packed with antioxidants and has been used to protect and heal the body since time immemorial. It protects against inflammation while also generating heat thus promoting healing. Make sure the turmeric powder you use is cryogenically ground so it retains maximum potency.
Cloves are a great source of beta carotene, and are also rich in antioxidants. Cloves can also help fight bacteria and inflammation
Black pepper powder helps clear the respiratory tract and promotes free flow of mucus, making it a great cold remedy. When used with honey it naturally suppresses coughs. As covid affects the respiratory system, Black pepper powder forms a great addition to all your home remedies, so make sure that the powder you use is cryogenically ground, so it retains maximum benefit.
Cinnamon is a natural antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral agent that also soothes sore throats.
Ginger helps heat up the body and lower phlegm, while also soothing the digestive tract. It also soothes the throat and fights inflammation, while lending a distinct flavour to any preparation.
Tulsi acts as a broad spectrum antimicrobial agent and helps boost immunity in the body naturally. It protects the body from both chemical as well as metabolic stress, making it a powerful herb when it comes to immunity.
Haldi doodh or Turmeric latte - another healthy alternative
Another great alternative to kadha is haldi doodh. Either as a homemade recipe or as this turmeric latte. This is a great health drink that soothes the body and boosts immunity naturally.
In addition to turmeric powder, Turmeric latte also contains ashwagandha, a herb that soothes the nervous system and helps boost immunity.
These everyday spices can be really useful in building immunity and keeping colds and infections at bay. There’s literally no better time to try these recipes than now, so here’s to your health, Bon appetit!