10 Indian spices to ward off common respiratory infections during winter

Now that the winter season has arrived, and getting sick during this time of the year can be awful. But the fact is that the cold weather can trigger or worsen a host of health problems, particularly respiratory infections such as a cough, cold, sore throat, asthma, etc. Moreover, your immune system may be more sluggish when it's cold and thus making you more vulnerable to become sick. The cold virus, once acquired, attaches itself to the lining of the nasal passages and sinuses, causing the infected cells to release histamine - a chemical that gives rise to many symptoms of allergies like a runny nose, nasal congestion, sneezing, etc. In some cases, allergies, if left untreated, can lead to respiratory infections.

But, the good news is that there are many things you can do to deal with cold weather ailments. By including the right spices, foods in your daily diet, you are less likely to fall ill and more likely to recover faster if you do. Here are 10 amazing spices that not only emit tantalizing aromas and make your meals delicious but also protect you from infections:

Ginger

Packed with nutrients and bioactive compounds that have powerful benefits for your body, ginger is one of the healthiest spices on the planet. Besides treating common cold and cough effectively, ginger is also helpful for settling upset stomachs, dizziness, nausea, vomiting. You can add ginger to your daily diet or treat yourself to a cup fresh ginger tea every morning.

Star anise

Rich in antioxidants and vitamins A and C, star anise can help you fight a sore throat and colds effectively. Its antifungal and antibacterial abilities can keep you away from flu and other viral infections in this season.

If you are suffering from a sore throat or a bad cough, drink tea made with this star-shaped spice. Add two anise seed pods in boiling water for over 15 minutes. Strain the tea and add a few drops of honey. Drink this tea thrice daily to avail immunity-boosting benefits. 

Saffron

Not just saffron adds a vibrant colour to your dishes, it has several health benefits too. If you're looking for an instant relief from cold, mix a few strands of milk and apply the same on your forehead. This technique is a sure-shot one to treat colds due to seasonal change.

Turmeric

Turns out a glass of turmeric milk gulped down every day in the winter months will boost your immunity system and keep you away from various infections. Loaded with antioxidants, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric will help prevent and tackle a number of diseases.

Fenugreek

If you like laddoos, try including fenugreek seeds, ginger, fennel seeds and jaggery as ingredients in it. Fenugreek seeds are packed with antiviral properties and have the ability to kill viruses that cause sniffles and sore throats.

Nutmeg

Nutmeg has strong antibacterial properties that help boost the immune system. This is a warm spice and can be added in your sweet and savoury food items to boost their flavours. A cup of hot milk with nutmeg powder, a few drops of honey and crushed cardamom is sure to keep your winter blues away.

Black pepper

Black pepper contains various antioxidants that accelerate the body's metabolism. With a distinctive taste and pungent aroma, this spice can be added to any cuisine or used it as a condiment.

Cloves

Cloves are rich in antioxidant and widely recognised the world over for its medicinal and culinary qualities. They also contain anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and dental-soothing properties. These dried flower buds have a distinct flavour and intense aroma. You can add cloves to your salad dressings, meats and desserts and relish the bursts of flavours.

Cardamom

Cardamom's small green pods are rich sources of minerals and antioxidants that aid in blood detoxification and resolve digestive issues. Also known as elaichi, the aromatic spice also contains vitamin C and other essential nutrients.

Just drink a cup of cardamon tea in the winter months to ward off any symptoms of a cold and enhance your mood in the grey months.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon has several health benefits, including weight loss. The spice is rich in antioxidants and has several healing properties. The spice has immunity-boosting abilities and can protect you from various bacteria. A pinch of ground cinnamon and a teaspoon of honey in warm water in the morning can be a perfect winter elixir. Cinnamon can also be teamed with ginger to keep common cold at bay during winter months.

THIS IS ONLY FOR INFORMATION, ALWAYS CONSULT YOU PHYSICIAN BEFORE HAVING ANY PARTICULAR FOOD/ MEDICATION/EXERCISE/OTHER REMEDIES.   

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