How the regular Spice box in the kitchen acts as an immunity booster
Growing in India, ‘dadi maa ke nuske’ and home remedies have been a part of our lives. We have often eaten ‘ajwain’ for solving digestive issues and consumed ‘black pepper’ in tea for finding some relief with seasonal flu cold. So, in a way, your kitchen spice box is not just an accessory for adding flavours to your food; but also a way to keep your doctor away. The following article covers some of the top spices we can use for enhancing our immunity, especially during these tough times:
1. Turmeric
Turmeric is antiviral and antibacterial in nature. It consists of curcumin. It does not only help in boosting immunity but also helps in fighting against the different kinds of virus multiplying in the body. It also suppresses the inflammatory molecules in the body which are responsible for being damaged by viruses.
2. Cinnamon
Cinnamon to boost your metabolism has been used for many years. But, did you know it can help you with building a better immunity? This spice is an amazing source of antioxidants. Cinnamon adds a distinct flavour in every treat, but it can also help in warding off the immune stimulator and seasonal colds as well. It prevents the blood platelets from clumping and helps in regulating blood sugar too.
3. Cumin Seeds
Cumin seeds include Vitamin C which helps to bolster the immunity system. It is also gifted with many antibacterial properties that keep diseases and infections away. Who knew your favourite condiment for tadka can be one of the best friends for your immune system too? You can always boil a teaspoon of jeera in water and consume the water on a daily basis to keep a host of problems away.
4. Fenugreek
Fenugreek helps in building immunity & get rid of cold, cough & Flu. It is a well-known herb in the ancient system of Ayurveda and acts as a natural antioxidant for the body, in turn strengthening the immune system. It can be used in the form of a herb, spice, fresh leaves as well as vegetables. Add these seeds act as preservatives as they are quite rich in Vitamin E and help in nourishing the body.
5. Ginger and Garlic
Ginger is known for its anti-fungal, anti-cancer, and anti-inflammatory properties. When it comes to traditional medicine, ginger has been largely used for curing coughs as well as cold. It helps in keeping nausea, travel sickness, arthritis and a host of other diseases down low too. Garlic, on the other hand, has plenty of anti-oxidant properties. It helps in reducing stress and getting rid of high blood pressure too. It enhances thiamine absorption in the body, in turn helping your immune system strengthen.
One of the easiest ways to consume these beneficial spices is by ingesting kadha - recommended by Ayush Ministry. It is a decoction of Tulsi (Basil), Kalimirch (Black pepper), Dalchini (Cinnamon), Munakka (Raisin), and Shunthi (Dry Ginger). These are some of the spices easily available in every Indian Kitchen. In this, you can also add another way of natural sugar in the form of Jaggery, and fresh lemon juice to suit your taste in general. It is one of the best ways to boost your immunity and keep it strong during COVID-19.
Drafted By : Samruddhi Kulkarni
Edited By : Dr. Amol Raut
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