With everyone around the Globe practicing social distancing and many cities getting into lockdown, dealing with the uncertainty of pandemic Corona Virus – COVID 19, knowingly or unknowingly Immunity is on everyone’s mind. I certainly feel we must all follow the basics being suggested to stay safe – wash hands regularly, practice social distancing, eat healthy and stay positive during this phase. Yes, its easier said than done…but this too shall pass. Our mental health needs all the positive influences possible!
Back to our topic of immunity, thinking about it today, I went back into my childhood. Growing up in India and been blessed to have received the love of my grandparents and even great grandparents, I have seen many household remedies. Also, normal ingredients in day to day cooking had healing and immunity improvement value that my Mom and her elders very casually knew of. Most Indian households still use many of those ingredients in our everyday cooking. I thought I’ll share a few with you today.
“A healthy outside starts from the inside”
– Robert Urich
- Turmeric – off late the world has started to recognize turmeric for its benefits. This powerful spice has been an age old formula in Indian households. The kitchen staple spice is rich in antioxidant and works as anti-inflammatory. Did you know not only Turmeric powder but the fresh turmeric root can be easily used in recipes. Most Indian curries have turmeric as a spice, the Turmeric milk is very popular as a health drink, Turmeric with hot water and honey is another way to consume this wonder spice.
- Ginger: ah my favorite…not only it is tasty and flavorful, its super healthy, filled with nutrients. Its full of anti-inflammtory and antioxidant properties. Small quants of ginger root is commonly used in many Indian curries. It’s said to help with digestion, help fight flu and common colds and reduce nausea. I personally love ginger in my tea, specially during winters. Ginger juice with honey in some warm water makes great drink to soothe soar throat. Ginger powder is also used in many recipes.
- Holy Basil (Tulsi) – is considered a sacred plant in India and has healing powers. High content of flavonoid makes it a great antioxidant. I remember couple of Tulsi leaves being added in our tea regularly. Till date, I take it to get relief from cough, cold and fever. Holy Basil should be taken in moderation, a few leaves are good. Easiest way to consume it is by adding it to teas or smoothies. Enjoy your immunity booster cuppa!
- Indian Gooseberry: known as Amla commonly in India, is an extremely rich source of Vitamin C. It contains antioxidants categories including flavonoids, polyphenols and tannins. Although a super fruit, due to its sour taste its not popular. I’ve had it in form of pickles, mixed with curries and also mixed it in lightly salted water after grating it fine. More versions include candies which due to sugar content is not the healthiest option.
- Cinnamon: Globally more popular than the others on this list, cinnamon too is widely used in Indian cooking. The spice is loaded with antioxidants like polyphenols. Its anti-inflammatory and also said to be anti-diabetic as it helps to lower blood sugar. I enjoy Cinnamon in smoothies, waffles, Oats and tea! Yes….tea is a theme! Do remember to take Cinnamon in moderation to avoid any side effects.
Keep spreading the love people, even if it is virtually 🙂
Stay healthy, Stay positive and stay safe..
This article is the writer’s personal opinions and not medical advise, please use discretion and consult your doctor before making any dietary changes to ensure no adverse effect.
Kitchen Rendezvous by Kritee 