Benefits of Immunity Booster Kadha or Herbal Tea

This COVID-19 pandemic taught us that improving your immune system naturally is much more important than running later for various medicines and injections. People are now returning to their roots and started adding natural ingredients in their diet. Herbal tea or kadha is one of the best drinks in India with a lot of healthy benefits. Daily consumption of this drink is recommended by the Indian Ministry of Ayurveda, Yoga, and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy (AYUSH) in this pandemic situation. However, since over hundreds of years, this kadha formulation is been used very effectively over various problems.

What is Herbal Tea or Kadha?

It is a traditional, homemade, aromatic drink that has numerous healing properties. Different medicinal ingredients are used to make this kadha. It is used in India since ancient times but currently, it has come into the limelight due to the coronavirus pandemic 2020. Apart from boosting your immunity, this kadha will relax your body, decrease body temperature, improve skin quality, strengthen your stomach health, and much more. There are many versions of herbal tea in the market but there are some basic ingredients that you should know.

1. Tulsi

It is also called as Indian basil is packed with vitamin C and zinc. This plant also has an anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal properties. This keeps you infection-free and healthy. Tulsi helps prevent respiratory diseases, reduces stress, and also regulates blood sugar levels. Among other benefits of tulsi, it also helps maintain dental and oral health. Tulsi herbal tea is especially helpful for arthritis patients as Tulsi is said to possess anti-inflammatory properties and have the same effect on joints and the digestive tract.

2. Cinnamon

It is an Indian spice commonly known as dalchini in Hindi. It has great antioxidant properties that kill the internal infection and boost your immunity. It also slows down the risk of chronic diseases. Among other benefits of cinnamon herbal tea, it may also aid the body in increasing metabolism and brain function. The spice also fights free radicals as it is packed with antioxidants called flavonoids. Cinnamon is also said to help keep colds at bay and improve bad breath.

3. Black Pepper

This black, tiny spice works wonderfully to kill the inflammation-causing infection. It also reduces the risk of arthritis, cancer, and diabetes. Black pepper also contains a compound called piperine that improves digestion and metabolism performance. This results in a decrease of fat accumulation in our body. Black pepper is said to have positive effects on the body, including boosting immunity, reducing asthma, and aiding in weight management.

4. Cloves

Consuming cloves regularly helps to boost your immunity as it is full of antioxidants. This helps them fight free radicals and boost our immune system. They also have antiseptic, antimicrobial, and antiviral properties. Drinking clove herbal tea may aid in improving digestion, metabolic rate, and oral health, among other benefits. Clove tea is also healthy for those suffering from sinus or chest congestion as it possesses eugenol which can aid in clearing phlegm.   

In my experience, I have observed that herbal teas like chamomile and lavender might have beneficial effects on female health, particularly for new mothers. These teas have been recommended by healthcare workers to improve sleep quality and alleviate feelings of depression. The calming properties of chamomile and lavender, along with their pleasant taste and aroma, contribute to their potential to reduce sleep deficiency and uplift mood.

Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS

5. Turmeric

Turmeric is a well-known spice that contains curcumin. Curcumin has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce infection and inflammation and keeps you healthy. Among other benefits, turmeric is said to help reduce cardiovascular complications and even help treat cancer. This medicinal herb is also said to help treat Alzheimer’s. The curcumin in turmeric may also help manage irritable bowel syndrome and protect against liver damage, gallstones, and other liver conditions. The herb may also help treat lung conditions. Overall, turmeric herbal tea helps fight off a myriad of diseases and helps keep our bodies healthy.  

6. Ginger

Everyone loves to drink ginger tea, it tastes great. Not only taste but it is also filled with various nutrients. Fresh ginger helps to ward off the infection. Ginger tea may have anti-inflammatory properties as it contains phytonutrients known as gingerols which can have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects. Ginger may also help ease digestive discomfort and reduce blood pressure. Drinking ginger tea is especially helpful when one is trying to lose weight or suffering from migraines or headaches.

7. Honey or Jaggery

A small quantity of jaggery or honey balances the flavor. It is optional though. Apart from tasting wonderful, honey is said to have a number of benefits. Studies suggest that honey may have potent antioxidant activity. It may help fight off bacteria and boost the immune system. Honey is also said to possess antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It promotes tissue repair within the body. It is renowned as a very effective remedy for sore throats and for treating common colds.  

8. Lemongrass

Lemongrass is full of antioxidants. It is very useful to treat cough and cold, fever. It also helps to regulate blood pressure. Lemongrass tea is also said to have relaxing properties and relieve anxiety. The herb aids the body in reducing cholesterol. Apart from the formerly mentioned benefits, lemongrass can also prevent infection and boost oral health and red blood cell levels.

Based on the national dietary guidelines of the Netherlands, it is recommended to include three cups of green or black tea in your daily routine. Research suggests that regular tea consumption has been associated with a reduced risk of stroke and high blood pressure.

Dr. Siddharth Gupta, B.A.M.S, M.D (Ayu)

Benefits of Herbal Tea or Kadha

Herbal tea or kadha is made from all nutritious ingredients. Kadha is rich in antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins. Here are some benefits of herbal tea or kadha –

1. Boosts Immune System

Herbal tea is full of antioxidants and vitamins that are very essential to enhance your immune system. Antioxidants help to reduce internal infection by destroying free radicles. It protects against the risk of chronic diseases like cancer, diabetes. Some of the best herbal teas to boost your immunity are elderberry, echinacea, and ginger.

As it is loaded with antioxidants it is excellent for detox your body. Turmeric, ginger, black pepper acts as an antioxidant to keep you clean and healthy.

2. Fights Against Respiratory Complaints

Herbal teas are great for cough and cold. Tulasi, lemongrass works wonderfully to relieve your respiratory symptoms. It also reduces the symptoms of asthma.

3. Aids Digestion

Herbal tea is beneficial for your digestive system as it aids in absorbing gas, improving blood flow to the entire digestive tract, and eliminates free radicals that can result in an upset stomach and indigestion. They also contain phenols which may help in strengthening both stomach muscles and the ones in the oesophagus. A cup of herbal tea after your meal can help to relieve your digestive complaints such as indigestion, nausea, vomiting, etc. It enhances your metabolism and helps to keep the normal digestion process.

4. Helps to Weight Loss

Herbal tea contains various natural ingredients that help to burn your fat and make you lean. Herbal tea for three times per day is sufficient with a weight loss diet to reduce weight.

5. Anti-aging Properties

The antioxidants found in herbal teas help to slow down the aging process and make your skin look healthy and glowy. They prevent free radical damage to your skin and prevent your cells from ageing. It also makes your hair healthy.

6. Reduce Inflammation

It is a great tonic for arthritic pain. Herbal teas like ginger, turmeric, and eucalyptus are excellent to reduce the inflammatory condition. This also makes an ideal treatment for joint and muscle pain.

7. Lowers Blood Pressure

Herbal teas like hibiscus tea help to reduce blood pressure without any side effects. This natural treatment is very effective than using modern medicines. Turmeric also makes a great anti-inflammatory herb for herbal tea.

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

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