Tata 1mg Capsules

BY SHRIYA AGARWAL, DIET COUNSELOR

You may not know, but your kitchen holds the key to fighting common cold. These herbs can boost immunity to prevent illness or support the body’s natural fighting tendencies, shortening the time we spend suffering. 

Here are some magical herbs and ways of using them to prevent and treat a cold:

1 . Lehsun (Garlic)

Garlic, with its antiviral properties boosts immunity. It helps prevent and reduce the severity of common cold.

How to use?

– You could have 1-2 cloves of raw garlic daily with water

– If you find it difficult to have raw garlic, then you may try having 1-2 chopped garlic cloves with a teaspoon of honey or as a garlic mint dip

– You may also add finely chopped garlic to your soups

2 . Adrak (Ginger)

Ginger lowers the risk of infections and inhibits the growth of many types of bacteria.

How to use?

– You could have ginger in the form of ginger water or ginger-honey tea

– Also don’t forget to add it to your daily cooking

3 . Tulsi  (Basil Leaves)

Tulsi leaves help lower high body temperature and boost production of antibodies thereby preventing infections.

How to use?

– Add 3-4 tulsi leaves to a glass of boiling water. Let it simmer for a few minutes. Have this drink 2-3 times a day

4 . Haldi (Turmeric)

Turmeric has antiviral, antifungal and antibacterial properties as it contains a chemical compound called curcumin. This helps in preventing cold and boosts immunity.

How to use?

– Besides adding it to your daily cooking, add 1/2-1 teaspoon of raw crushed turmeric to a glass of warm milk and have this daily during winter months

Also Read: Turmeric Benefits

5 . Dalchini (Cinnamon)

With remarkable antifungal and antibacterial properties, cinnamon is very effective in relieving symptoms of common cold.

How to use?

– Cinnamon can be added to gravies and curries

– You could also add hot vanilla with cinnamon or 1/4th teaspoon of cinnamon powder with 1 teaspoon of honey and have it during winter months

6 .  Pudina (Peppermint)

Pudina helps kill bacteria and viruses, reduces body aches, thins mucus and breaks up phlegm due to presence of menthol which is a decongestant.

How to use?

– You could have it as lukewarm mint-lemonade to get the most out of this herb

– Add dried crushed pudina powder to curd or salads for added benefits

7 . Kali Mirch (Black Pepper)

Black pepper provides relief from sinusitis and nasal congestion and helps expel mucus and phlegm through the act of sneezing or coughing.

How to use?

– You could add black pepper in gravies

– Have 1/6th teaspoon of crushed/powdered black pepper with a teaspoon of honey 2-3 times a day

8 . Ajwain (Thyme)

Thyme is an excellent pulmonary disinfectant and its inhalation helps treat chronic infections that linger in the sinuses. It has essential oils with antibacterial and immune boosting properties.

How to use?

– Crackle (tadka) a teaspoon of thyme seeds and add them to vegetables or pulses

– You could also roast the seeds and inhale the aroma

9 . Baboon ka Phool (Chamomile)

Chamomile has amazing anti-microbial and antibacterial benefits. It owes its antibacterial properties to Chamazulene.

How to use?

– Have Chamomile tea 3-4 times a day to help in relieving symptoms of cold

10 . Laung (Clove)

Clove boosts immunity and helps in getting rid of phlegm.

How to use?

– Add a few cloves in your morning cup of tea and enjoy a congestion free day

Look no further and explore your kitchen the next time you are bothered by the common cold.