People with weak immunity are likely to catch viral infections like flu and cold easily. Shreyansh Jain lists herbs that work wonders
Winters have arrived in full swing, and while some people are relishing the cold temperatures, others are experiencing a runny nose, sore throat, cough, and constant sniffing by falling prey to viral infections. As per Ayurveda, the science of healing, kapha doshas are responsible for regulating the respiratory system of the body, whereas vata doshas pertain to manage the overall immunity, ojas. Generally, people with weak immunity are likely to catch viral infections. So, if you are looking for a potent solution to prevent or ward off dreading flu or cold, give a bolster to your immunity with the following homemade ayurvedic remedies.
Tulsi: Tulsi, also known as the “Mother nature of medicines” is enriched with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help to prevent common colds and infections. Consuming tulsi leaves every day increases the production of antibodies and strengthens overall immunity. Relieving the airways and lowering down the body temperature, tulsi leaves are effective in curing cold, cough, and viral fever. To attain the maximum benefits of “The Queen of herbs”, you can chew four-five tulsi leaves first thing in the morning, create a concoction with tulsi, ginger, and peppercorns, or add a few tulsi leaves in hot tea.
Honey: Loaded with antimicrobial properties, delicious honey does not only taste heavenly but also helps a sore throat. Honey provides respite from nasal and throat congestion by loosening the thick mucus and helps you to cough it out. Taking a teaspoon of honey every day boosts metabolism, improves digestion, and builds immunity. If you are suffering from a bad cold and cough, mix equal parts of honey and ginger juice and take the mixture once in the morning and before going to bed.
Giloy: Also known as amrita or guduchi in the native language, the heart-shaped spice, giloy works wonders to ward off cold and cough. Giloy is a natural immunity booster with rich antioxidant properties, which shields the body against foreign pathogens into the body. The giloy extract flushes out toxins from the body and balances kapha doshas thus, reduces frequent coughs, sniffing, sore throat as well as fever. You can either consume a teaspoon of giloy juice or take a giloy tablet with warm water.
Ashwagandha: One of the most relied upon herbs in Ayurvedic medicine, ashwagandha, is a powerful remedy in bolstering immunity. The super herb consists of umpteen number of active ingredients, which are beneficial for various bodily functions and managing doshas. The roots of Ashwagandha have potent diuretic, antioxidant, and analgesic properties, that help to fight infections and control symptoms of cold, cough, and viral bugs. The sedative attribute of ashwagandha also helps to deal with fatigue and chronic stress that generally accompany viral infections.
Ginger: An inexpensive and pungent spice, ginger has remained an all-time favourite home remedy for Indians to cure cold and cough. The anti-inflammatory gingerols present in it help to relieve sore throat and destroy rhinovirus, the pathogen responsible for cold. You can drink two to three cups of ginger tea to warm up on a cold winter day and keep the body healthy.
The writer is CEO, Medy365.com
