As the temperature dips significantly amidst the cold surroundings of the winter season, we tackle various health challenges along the way. Whether it is the cold, cough, sore throat or viral infections.
These winter woes target our immunity bank and make the body weaker and vulnerable to prolonged illness. It is important thus to keep the body warm and boost our immune system through healthy and nutritious foods and drinks.
According to experienced dietitian Fauziya Ansari from Apollo Spectra, Mumbai, herbal blend drinks can be an effective way to mitigate and overcome winter-related health risks. “During winter, warming herbal blends can support immunity by improving digestion and helping the body manage seasonal stressors. Ingredients such as spices and herbs are often used for their soothing and supportive properties, especially when consumed regularly as part of a balanced diet,” Ansari told Health Shots.
FSSAI’s guidelines dictate that only beverages made from Camellia sinensis are identified as tea, while drinks carrying spices and herb blends fall under the category of herbal infusions aimed at immunity boosting. These drinks are bolstered by functional ingredients, not tea leaves. Here are five immunity-boosting herbal blends that you can try out in your daily intake and enjoy their several health benefits.
Ginger Infusion
It’s an anti-inflammatory powerhouse. Ginger is packed with anti-bacterial and inflammation countering properties, which make it a perfect winter staple in Indian households. A ginger-based herbal infusion would also ease congestion, support blood circulation and help you counter conditions like a sore throat.
Tulsi Infusion
Tulsi (Holy Basil) is hailed as the ‘Queen of Herbs’. An influential adaptogen, tulsi powers our immune cells and gets the immune system acting against bacterial and seasonal health risks. According to dietitian Ansari, tulsi infusion supports respiratory function and helps you overcome colds and cough.
Turmeric Infusion
Ansari also suggests incorporating turmeric-infused herbal drinks in our dietary consumption in the winter. Packed with curcumin, turmeric (or haldi) boosts our immunity and triggers anti-inflammatory action. It is also found as an aid for recovery processes from winter infections. In some cases, turmeric infusions may also help with joint pain.
Green Tea
It’s the most common form of herbal infusion consumed by people today. Green Tea tends to infuse a dose of antioxidants in our body, which protect it from various infections and winter threats. Green tea also gives us sustained energy by improving our metabolism.
Chamomile Infusion
Our immune system relies quite significantly on our sleep cycle and the body’s regular rest and recovery process. A Chamomile-based infusion aids our sleep system through its calming and relaxing nutrients.
