We are living in a time when leading a healthy life has become crucial. Only a healthy body can fight viral, bacterial or fungal infections. In our kitchen, we can find certain superfoods and spices that can strengthen our immune system. Here we give a low down on a few of them that nutritionists vouch for.
By boosting one's immunity, we can ensure that we make our body's natural defence strong enough to be able to fight against bacteria and viruses, and save us from catching diseases.
Star Anise
Star anise too can help strengthen the defence system of our body. The spice has shikimic acid which is believed to have antiviral properties. This immunity-boosting superstar can be steeped in water to make a healthy tea.
Star Anise, used as a culinary spice in biryani and masala tea, is said to have many medicinal benefits as it contains compounds that have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Apart from shikimic acid, star anise contains quercetin, gallic acid, linalool, limonene, and anethole.
In traditional Chinese medicine, it is used to treat digestion related problems, respiratory infections, constipation and nausea.
Immune Boosting Concoction or Kadha Recipe
Ingredients: Use all organic ingredients.
- Ginger
- Turmeric (Haldi)
- Tulsi leaves
- Black Pepper powder
- Pink Salt
- Honey
- Lemon
- Star Anise
- Cloves (laung) (optional)
- Cinnamon (dalchini) (optional)
Preparation:
In a pan take some water. Add grated or crushed ginger, a few tulsi leaves, black pepper powder, and a pinch of pink salt and bring it to boil till it's half. Switch off the gas.
You can add one or two cloves and a piece of cinnamon if you want.
Once boiled, add one star anise per cup to this concoction and cover the lid and let it steep. Sieve it in the cups. Add lemon juice and one teaspoon of honey. Drink it and strengthen your immune system.
Also Read: Coronavirus (COVID-19): How To Boost Immunity
Ginger
In Ayurveda ginger has been used since ancient times. It is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It's believed to improve immunity and boost immune response.
Ginger root has always been the choicest option for health-conscious people. It helps in digestion also. Ginger elixir or ginger shots are gaining more followers among fitness freaks.
Tea prepared using crushed or grated ginger offers great relief in common and flu.
Garlic
Garlic too is believed to have immune strengthing properties. It produces allicin that contains sulfur which is supposed to give it medicinal properties. It has been used to relieve symptoms of the common cold and is believed to have flu virus-fighting powers.
Apart from sulphur compounds, garlic is also rich in calcium and potassium. Raw garlic is better as it loses some of its medicinal powers after cooking.
Tulsi (Holy Basil)
Tulsi or Holy Basil has magical medicinal properties. It is believed to have antibiotic, fungicidal and germicidal effects. Tulsi leaves extract is known to boost immunity.
As a home remedy, holy basil has been used for ages to treat fever caused by various infections. It is believed to very effectively treat cough.
The herb contains antioxidants, along with phytochemicals and bioflavonoids. It has rosmarinic acid, an anti-microbial agent.
The immune system can be strengthened by having a cup of tulsi tea every day or Tulsi kadha or concoction.
Haldi (Turmeric)
Turmeric or Haldi is considered the holy grail of health. It's known to fight infections by strengthing the immune system. The yellow coloured spice is believed to have anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and anti-bacterial properties.
The healing power of turmeric comes from curcumin, a compound known to have anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric helps fight the infection and its anti-inflammatory quality is said to help fight cold, flu and respiratory tract issues.
Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits are rich in Vitamin C. Eat oranges, mosambis, limes and grapefruit to boost your immune system. Vitamin C is believed to increase the infection-fighting white blood cells.
Kiwi also has vitamin C along with vitamin K, folate and potassium.
Papaya is also a good source of vitamin C along with papain, a digestive enzyme that has anti-inflammatory effects.
Amla, guava and capsicum are also loaded with vitamin C. Capsicum also has beta carotene.
Do let us know in the comments how you are boosting your immunity against the coronavirus. Stay home, stay safe and stay strong.
Disclaimer: The article is based on general information regarding the immunity-boosting ability of these foods. Please consult a medical professional before starting any treatment.
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