Dr Ameen Noorul talks about six must-have ingredients we should add to our diets during the monsoon
The monsoons arrive as a heavenly blessing after the scorching heat of summers, giving respite to people with a pleasant drop in temperature. However, no change in seasons has ever come without its share of potential health risks. The monsoons are especially known for being accompanied by all sorts of infections, digestive problems and allergies. This is because our immunity level drops dramatically around this time due to a sluggish digestion process caused by the high humidity levels.
We need to provide extra support to our immune system by paying special attention to what we eat so that we may make the most of this season.
Read on to discover the six ingredients we must add to our monsoon health routine to encourage our gut health and beat seasonal ailments, while giving our loved ones the gift of wellness:
Ginger
Easily available in every Indian household and known as the traditional go-to remedy for common concerns in monsoons — including cold, flu and coughs — ginger is a wonderful herb that calms down the aggravated air component in the body. Gingerol, the active ingredient present in this medicinal herb, is an antioxidant — strongest among all fruits and vegetables — which is highly effective in preventing respiratory tract infections. Additionally, it is great for improving the body's digestive processes which give the person something to cheer about. You can have ginger in curries and other dishes, tea or any choice cool drinks. Organic and refreshing ginger infusions and supplements are easily available in the market.
Garlic
Another very common yet powerful ingredient, garlic, is known for being super effective in boosting metabolism. It comes with great antioxidant properties that help in building your body’s natural immunity. Many people like to consume raw garlic to prevent several diseases but the best way to have garlic is to add it to your dals and curries or use its incredible flavor to spice up sauces and warm soups.
Mint
We usually tend to skip greens in the monsoon, however, mint is considered to be in a completely different league. It is a natural decongestant, which helps in keeping away from colds and flu. Its cooling properties are best consumed in warm teas, warm salad, or infused in a room temperature lemonade.
Turmeric
The immense medicinal benefits of turmeric are not known to many beyond India. However, this herb has been used in Ayurvedic practises for thousands of years. The phytochemical in turmeric, called curcumin, is highly effective in the removal of toxins from the system while fighting germs and bacteria. There is no better immunity booster than turmeric, which works tremendously well in preventing a sore throat, flu, cough and cold. Along with antioxidants, this medicinal herb is rich in anti-inflammatory benefits and may also be used to heal internal and external inflammations. Turmeric is a huge part of Indian masalas hence can be used in everyday cooking. For great results, you can also add it in green tea, or to a glass of warm milk, or sip tulsi-turmeric infusions available in the market.
Tulsi
Tulsi or the holy basil, also known as ‘Queen of herbs’, is a high-quality immune-modulator. Packed with phytochemicals and a great source of antioxidants, it is also a strong germicide. Tulsi leaves can be chewed raw, added to your daily tea, and various everyday dishes. It can also be used to flavor salads or consumed as packaged infusions combined with several other aromatic and healing herbs.
Honey
If you have weak digestion, there is no medicine better than honey. This easily digestible carbohydrate can provide instant energy. People often experience issues with their digestive system during the monsoons, which can be treated smoothly by just adding honey to your diet. You can extract the best of its benefits by adding one teaspoon of it in a glass of lukewarm water, along with two teaspoons of lemon juice and drinking it on an empty stomach... and you can very well forget that you ever had weak digestion.
(The author is a naturopath at Organic India, a wellness brand which is based on Ayurvedic principles.)