Stay Healthy This Monsoon: Easy Ayurvedic Drinks for Immunity

As the monsoon season arrives, it brings a refreshing break from the scorching summer heat. However, the rainy season also comes with a host of health challenges. The sudden change in weather can make us more susceptible to colds, coughs, flu, and other infections. Strengthening our immune system becomes crucial during this time, and what better way to do it than with natural remedies?

Ayurveda, the ancient Indian medicine system, offers many solutions to boost immunity. Ayurvedic drinks, made with natural herbs and spices, are effective and easy to prepare. Here are some Ayurvedic drinks you can try this monsoon to keep your immune system robust and your health in check.

1. Tulsi Tea

Tulsi, also known as holy basil, is a powerful herb revered in Ayurveda for its medicinal properties. It is known to enhance the body’s resistance to diseases and infections. Tulsi tea is simple to make and can be a great addition to your daily routine during the monsoon.

Ingredients:

• 10-12 fresh tulsi leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried tulsi leaves)
• 1 cup of water
• Honey (optional)

Method:

1. Boil the water and add the tulsi leaves.
2. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes.
3. Strain the tea into a cup and add honey if desired.
4. Drink it warm.

2. Ginger-Turmeric Tea

Ginger and turmeric are both renowned for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This potent combination can help boost immunity and keep infections at bay.

Ingredients:

• 1-inch piece of fresh ginger (or 1 teaspoon of ginger powder)
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 cup of water
• Lemon juice and honey (optional)

Method:

1. Boil the water and add the grated ginger.
2. Let it simmer for 5 minutes, then add the turmeric powder.
3. Simmer for another 2 minutes.
4. Strain the tea into a cup.
5. Add lemon juice and honey to taste, and drink it warm.

3. Amla Juice

Amla, or Indian gooseberry, is a rich source of vitamin C, which is essential for a strong immune system. Regular consumption of amla juice can help improve your body’s ability to fight off infections.

Ingredients:

• 2-3 fresh amlas (or 2 tablespoons amla powder)
• 1 cup of water
• Honey (optional)

Method:

1. Blend the fresh amlas with water to make a juice.
2. Strain the juice into a glass.
3. Add honey if needed and drink it fresh.

4. Golden Milk

Golden milk, also known as turmeric milk, is a traditional Ayurvedic drink that is especially beneficial during the monsoon. Turmeric’s active compound, curcumin, has strong antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of milk (cow milk or plant-based milk)
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper powder
• Honey or jaggery (optional)

Method:

1. Heat the milk in a saucepan.
2. Add turmeric powder and black pepper powder.
3. Stir well and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Pour into a cup and add honey or jaggery if desired.
5. Drink it warm before bedtime.

5. Cumin-Coriander-Fennel Tea

This Ayurvedic concoction, often referred to as CCF tea, combines the benefits of cumin, coriander, and fennel seeds. These spices help improve digestion, detoxify the body, and boost immunity.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon coriander seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds
• 1 cup of water

Method:

1. Boil the water and add the seeds.
2. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes.
3. Strain the tea into a cup.
4. Drink it warm.

6. Ashwagandha Tea

Ashwagandha is an adaptogen, which means it helps the body adapt to stress and improves overall health. It is known for its immune-boosting properties and can be very beneficial during the monsoon.

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon ashwagandha powder
• 1 cup of water
• Honey (optional)

Method:

1. Boil the water and add the ashwagandha powder.
2. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Strain the tea into a cup.
4. Add honey if desired and drink it warm.

7. Lemon-Honey Water

Lemon and honey are a classic combination that can do wonders for your immune system. Lemon is rich in vitamin C, while honey has antimicrobial properties. This drink is also refreshing and hydrating.

Ingredients:

• Juice of half a lemon
• 1 cup of warm water
• 1 teaspoon honey

Method:

1. Mix the lemon juice and honey in a cup of warm water.
2. Stir well and drink it on an empty stomach in the morning.

Incorporating these Ayurvedic drinks into your daily routine can significantly improve your immunity and help you stay healthy during the monsoon season. These natural remedies are not only effective but also free from side effects, making them a safe choice for people of all ages. Along with these drinks, maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and getting adequate rest are essential for overall well-being. Embrace these Ayurvedic practices and enjoy a healthy and refreshing monsoon.