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Herbs And Spices

To Boost Your Immunity This Monsoon

Monsoons in India are much awaited after a spell of unbearable heat that is associated with summers. But this seasonal shift is also a recipe for microbes to thrive, that attack the body, and thus more people fall sick during this time. The digestion also slows down and the respiratory tract also clogs up. Staying strong and healthy during such a time does not need you to only rely on strong antibiotics. This season, embrace herbal remedies that are rooted in Ayurveda, with herbs and spices known to boost immunity, .

The best remedy for cough and cold, especially a sore throat, tulsi or holy basil, is known as the Elixir of Life. Consume tulsi for immunity, as it has been used for centuries to manage stress, relax the nervous system, improve cognitive function, regulate metabolism, and improve energy levels. Rich in vitamin C and zinc, it has immense antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties and is a natural immunity booster. Consume tulsi leaves every day, either in their raw form, as a herbal potion, or as tea.

Turmeric contains a chemical substance named curcumin, which helps boost your immunity and helps to fight against viral infections. This is the reason why haldi doodh is consumed during this season. Haldi also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help in soothing the body. Turmeric also supports detoxification and promotes faster healing, making it a monsoon must-have. Add it to curries, soups, or have the beloved golden milk. Pair it with black pepper for better absorption.

Ginger is known to warm the body, which is great for monsoons; it also improves digestion and enhances blood circulation in the body. The active ingredient in ginger is gingerol, which is an immune booster that helps fight against infections. Its anti-inflammatory properties also help in reducing the risk of sore muscles and throat infections. Adding a little ginger to turn your morning cuppa into adrak chai will help boost energy and clear your throat. For a quick monsoon tonic, simmer ginger slices with honey and lemon in warm water and sip first thing in the morning.

This herb is known for soothing properties when it comes to respiratory issues like sore throats and infections, which are common in the monsoon. It also helps in reducing inflammation and acts as an immune booster. Consuming mulethi can strengthen the lungs and help prevent infections. This root herb also contains antimicrobial agents (glycyrrhizin) that detect and attack unwanted bacteria and germs, which inhibit the growth of harmful microbes in the body. Crush dried mulethi root, or use the powder, in your chai or your favourite beverage.

Mint leaf has many effective properties, including helping to relieve gas in the stomach, and has shown benefits when it comes to blood sugar management and reducing inflammation. It may also help in enhancing memory and mood. During the monsoon, when digestive upsets are common, pudina works as a cooling, soothing herb in everything from raita and chaas to fresh herbal tea. A handful of leaves with lime and honey makes a quick immunity tonic. Pudina has been found to have antimicrobial properties, which may help fight against certain bacteria and fungi.

Containing a compound called piperine, black pepper or kali mirch has been shown to significantly improve the absorption of other nutrients, particularly curcumin from turmeric, making it a must-have spice to boost your immunity​. Always add a pinch to your haldi doodh. During the rainy season, digestive issues like bloating and sluggish metabolism are common, and black pepper helps stimulate the hydrochloric acid in the stomach, aiding in better digestion and preventing the buildup of toxins.

One of the most common and important immune-boosting herbs​ of Ayurvedic medicine, ashwagandha improves the body's defence against harmful pathogens by improving immunity at a cellular level. It also possesses antioxidant properties that protect against cell damage, and also reduces the level of the stress hormone cortisol, thereby lowering stress. Ashwagandha is also known to enhance muscle strength and physical endurance, making it the perfect herb to combat the effects of monsoon fatigue. It is ideally taken in the morning with warm milk or mixed into smoothies. 

These herbs are just the tip of the iceberg, as many spices like cumin seeds, cardamom and fennel seeds help in digestion, and many more herbs like giloy or guduchi and amla (Indian gooseberry) help the body recover from illnesses and ward off infections. Look into your kitchen and use these herbs and spices to cook dishes that use seasonal produce to boost your immunity this monsoon season.