5 Immunity-Boosting Indian Herbs to Fight Infections Naturally

One of the biggest learning from the COVID-19 pandemic is that our health is truly our biggest wealth. For a long time, most of us have abused our body with unhealthy junk food, starvation diets as well as an unhealthy lifestyle with little or no exercise.

It is time to change those toxic health patterns and give your body the TLC it deserves so that it can be strong to fight infections. 

Dietitian and nutritionist Dr Rohini Patil, founder of Nutracy Lifestyle, says, "An immune system is a group of organs that protects our body from infections. A weak immune system gives invitations to health problems. Sometimes the immune system gets so weak that it mistakenly starts attacking our own body. At the time of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important to have a strong immune system. Stress, unhealthy lifestyle and ageing are some of the causes of weak immune systems. Even if we have a strong immune system at this age, we should not take it for granted and should actually put an effort to keep it strong so that we can enjoy long term health benefits."

So here are her recommendations to give a boost to the immune system naturally.

Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is an Indian herb, which has powerful properties. It is well known to instantly boost immunity. Include it in your daily regime as a drink. Take one glass of hot milk or water and add one tbsp of ashwagandha powder.  Mix it well and drink it. The best time to have this drink is at night just before you get into bed.

Giloy

Giloy is another ayurvedic herb, also known as amrita which literally means 'the root of immortality.' It helps remove toxins, purifies the blood and fights bad bacteria. Just mix one tbsp of giloy powder in warm water and have it on an empty stomach in the morning.

Mint Leaves

This is a good replacement for your sugary, soda drinks and also makes your immune system stronger. Start by heating 500ml of water in a pan and add half a tsp of turmeric to it. Let it boil for 2 minutes and then add 10 to 12 mint leaves. Boil the mix further for 2 to 3 minutes and then pour it in a glass to cool. Once it is at room temperature, add one tbsp of honey and enjoy. This simple drink has all the antioxidants to fight the unwanted microbes in the body.

Turmeric

Turmeric, a common spice in Indian cooking, boosts the immune system through its amazing antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial properties. Just add ½ tbsp of turmeric in a cup of hot milk and have it an hour before going to sleep at night. This will shield your body from infectious microbes.

Amla

Vitamin C is an essential nutrient to reduce immune system deficiencies and Amla or Indian Gooseberry is loaded with this vitamin. You can consume amla in any form- juice, raw or pickle to reap its benefits.

Dr Patil adds, "It is also advisable to maintain a healthy balanced diet. Include seasonal fruits in your diet on a daily basis. Get efficient vitamin D from the sun. Exercise regularly and minimize the intake of sugary junk foods. Drink enough water to naturally flush out the toxins and maintain proper sleep timings. Do not excessively indulge in smoking or alcohol."