By: Aliaa ElSherbini
It’s officially winter as the weather goes below 20 degrees in the morning and hits single digits at night. In addition to being winter, the world is fighting a pandemic, urging us to be twice as careful and well feed to keep healthy. coronavirus
And part of staying healthy is by fueling your body with immunity-boosting and antioxidant herbs and spices. Here is a list of 6 herbs and spices that you can add to your meals and drinks to boost your immunity system and cleanse your organs.
Cinnamon
In addition to its aromatic richness and delicious flavor, cinnamon contains medicinal properties that boost the immunity system and fight infections.
Other than using it in cookies and baked goods, try using cinnamon sticks in warm drinks like teas, coffees or just keep it on its own. You can also use the powder in your oatmeal, yogurt, fruits, or even rice. coronavirus
Ginger
Ginger has been used since forever to cure a common cold and the flu due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant features that help our immune system fight viruses and bacteria. covid 19
It is good for the throat as well as preventing respiratory tract infections, which is what is needed to fight off the current virus. coronavirus
Add ginger powder to your morning tea, as well as your meals and soups (try ginger and carrot soup for a zesty lunch, or make a warm drink with lemon and honey). You can also use whole ginger while cooking in broths and sauces.
Turmeric
You might not prefer its taste, but this spice, made from curcumin, has powerful antioxidant agents that boost immunity, improves digestion, bone health, and reduces the risk of heart diseases. covid 19
Use it while cooking, or to have it concentrated by adding it to your milk for maximum benefits.
Cumin
Cumin contains antiseptic, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory features in addition to vitamin C, making it the golden spice for keeping your health in check. It is a source of iron and fiber to add strength to your body and help fight colds and coughs.
Use cumin in your salads, and marinate your protein in it while cooking to add additional flavor. You can follow some of our grandmas’ recipes and add it to hot water with lemon and drink it as an immunity-boosting shot, but it might be too bitter for some people.
Angelica root
The less common of the list, Angelica root is a herb most known to be used in Chinese medicine has plenty of health benefits. It promotes blood circulation, boosts the immune system and eases constipation, and helps to balance hormones. covid 19
Angelica Roots are sold as supplements, or as roots to brew as a tea or added to soups.
Cardamom
This rich spice is known in Indian cuisine as it adds a lot of flavor and color to the food. But most importantly, it helps boost the immune system by activating the virus-fighting cells, and it helps lower blood pressure and eases chronic diseases due to its anti-inflammatory effects.
Use cardamom powder in your food, like stews and sauces. You can also add it as small pieces while cooking meats.
Everything should be consumed in moderation, even herbs, and spices.
