As the monsoons approach and the pandemic has already taken over the world, there has been a lot of concern about ways to boost the immune system.
From a good night’s sleep to moderate exercise are some of the ways to build immunity, now a lot depends on what you eat.
Building immunity is a progressive shift and takes time. We all know that a balanced diet with exercise can help you stay on top of infection and fight chronic illness.
There are several peaks for a healthy diet and exercise, and over time we tend to become sluggish if we follow the regimen. So, here are some readily available natural ingredients that are known to be added to your food to boost immunity.
According to the WHO, more than 80% of the world’s population uses herbal medicines for primary health care, especially in Europe and South Asia.
Most herbs and seeds have anti-inflammatory properties, they are excellent for building the body’s natural immunity.
Herbs and seeds have been known for their medicinal properties for centuries, with over hundreds of medicinal plants and herbs native to India, we have pioneered their extensive use in traditional medicine.
Here is a list of herbs and seeds that can help boost immunity:
Tulsi or Basil
Every day 3-4 leaves can help you fight the number of infections. You can grow basil at home and add a wonderful herb to your daily life.
Basil is rich in antioxidants, flavanol, chlorophyll, vitamins and minerals as well as antimicrobial, antifungal and antibacterial properties and reduces stress and plasma glucose levels.
Adarak or ginger
Adrak remains one of the essential ingredients in any Indian cuisine, from dark wali chai to delicious biryani – its spicy taste makes dishes great.
Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal and anti-cancer properties. It is widely used for curing colds and coughs, nausea, asthma, motion sickness, morning sickness, arthritis and gastrointestinal complaints.
Drinking ginger tea or crushing ginger into lemon tea can help you get into a healthy routine.
Methi or Fenugreek seeds
We all know the amazing benefits of methi when it comes to hair problems. Part of ancient medicine, this herb acts as a natural antioxidant and strengthens the immune system.
Methi leaves are popular for delicious parathas, curry, and the seeds are mostly used in Indian curry tadka and spicy pickle masala. It is also very popular for artificial maple syrup flavors or in steroid production.
Chia seeds
Chia seeds are widely used in smoothies and ice creams and are popular for their amazing benefits.
Packed with antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, chia seeds help reduce inflammation, which helps improve the body’s immunity.
Using chia seeds in sweet dishes and drinking chia seed water can help you maintain an excellent metabolism.
Lehsun or garlic
Garlic has been used in food as tradition since childhood. Loaded with antioxidant properties, garlic helps heal blood pressure and is known for fighting stress.
It also helps improve the absorption of thiamine (vitamin B1) in the body and prevents beriberi.
Haldi or Turmeric
The favorite of all chefs, beauticians and health experts. Turmeric has excellent medicinal properties and contains a bioactive compound known as curcumin.
Popular in cooking dishes and turmeric kadha, it is highly recommended for cuts, wounds and faster healing. It is anti-inflammatory and greatly boosts immunity.
Giloy
When it comes to natural immunity boosters or remedies, Giloy is magical. Giloy is a versatile herb used in Ayurvedic medicines.
It helps to remove toxins from the body, purifies the blood and fights disease-causing bacteria. Giloy contains antioxidant properties that improve health, boost immunity and digestion.
Mix 15-30 ml of Giloy juice in a glass of water and consume it in the morning on an empty stomach.
pumpkin seeds
Pumpkin seeds Packed with zinc, iron and vitamin E, pumpkin seeds are great for boosting immune function and helping body cells grow. Pumpkin seeds are known for their antifungal and antiviral properties and are very popular in various Indian dishes and salads.