Spices for strength and herbs for health

Here are a few immunity boosters that could help you steer clear of anything from common cold to acute arthritis

Most of the damage done to the human body enters the body either through the lung or the gastrointestinal tract. The advent of the new strain of the Covid-19 is a reminder to take extra care to enhance and improve immunity. It is said that plant-based agents contain a diversity of polyphenols, flavonoids, saponins, glucosides, and alkaloids – which are immunity boosters and prepare the body to fight against infectious diseases.

Metrolife lists a few of them

Ajwain (Carom Seeds)

Commonly known as carom, or Bishop’s weed, Ajwain is an annual herb cultivated on a high scale in India. Both the leaves and seeds of the plants can be consumed and used in cooking. Ajwain is a medicinally loaded spice and is known to possess numerous pharmacological and bioactive compounds. It comprises antifungal, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antinociceptive, cytotoxic, hypolipidemic, antihypertensive and antispasmodic and many more powerful beneficial substances that can combat many diseases. It is a traditional, well known home remedy in Indian households for treatment of cold, cough and other throat infections. The expectorant characteristics of Ajwin help with decongestion, removal of mucous, and cures the nasal passage, thereby providing immediate relief from infections.

Heeng (Asafoetida)

Heeng is another well-recognised folk remedy that cures a wide variety of diseases and conditions, including chronic bronchitis, cough, and indigestion. It enhances the flavours of dishes containing large quantities of pulses such as Dal, Sambhar, or Rajma, but acts wonders in reducing symptoms associated with high blood pressure and indigestion.

Amalaki (Indian Gooseberry)

Amla or Amalaki is appropriately awarded with the title of “the mother” in Ayurveda due to its nurturing properties for the entire body, mind, and soul. Amalaki is known to possess restorative and healing properties. In ancient India, this fruit was well regarded that Emperor Ashoka once gifted an Amalaki tree to the Buddha’s devotees. Due to its divine capabilities of healing the body in response to all kinds of physical and emotional stress, it is categorised as an adaptogen. It is rich in Vitamin C and is believed to provide medicinal assistance to heart, control blood sugar levels, liver, and the digestive system.

Ashwagandha (Indian ginseng)

Ashwagandha is an effective home remedy to promote strength and vigor and avert all signs and symptoms of any type of weaknesses. It is regarded as an aphrodisiac as well as a rejuvenator. Ayurvedic physicians swear by this herb to treat rheumatic pain, inflammation of joints and even paralytic conditions. It is also found to be highly effective in treating all types of nervous disorders, including hypertension. Not only are the fruits of the plant beneficial, but the leaves are used as a successful application for all types of ulcers, boils and swelling in order to avoid any infections.

Chandan (Sandalwood)

Chandan has myriad uses besides being a powerful aroma therapeutic spice. Although this fragrant wood is amongst the most valuable in the world, the nutritional benefits of it stand poorly understood. Sandalwood paste can be applied as a lotion to cure headaches. Drinking water soaked with sandalwood dust is known to cure sexually transmitted diseases such as Gonorrhoea. Sandalwood is also used as a powerful antiseptic and antibacterial and is much-admired for having reducing or eliminating acne.