No one likes to be cooped up at home with a nose redder than Rudolph and a painfully sore throat. We know that nothing is worse than feeling absolutely shattered, lethargic and just generally under the weather.
Cue in our immune system, our knight in shining armour when it comes to warding off all kinds of invading nasties. In order to keep it optimally functioning and even thriving, we can implement several energising and immunity-boosting Ayurvedic herbs. The benefits are boundless, and they could help us to feel better and stronger than ever.
What is Ayurveda?
The belief of this ancient Indian practice is that diet, wellbeing and immunity can be enhanced by the power of balance and harmony. It is all about learning how to manage our vital essences which Ayurveda labels our ‘Ojas.’ If we then apply the principles of Rasayana (Rejuvenation) we can boost our immunity and produce disease-preventing agents. Herbs are key components in this holistic process due to their cleansing properties. Below we’ll look at 4 super herbs that have mind-blowingly immunity boosting capabilities.
Also known as Withania Somnifera, this woody herb grows in India, the Middle East and in some places in Africa. All parts of the plant can be consumed but the root is most typically used.
What does it do?
This wondrous herb is the ultimate stress and inflammation reducer that can also lower blood pressure. It’s also championed for its calming effects which can help with nervous disorders.
Why not try: a soothing sleep tonic, a sweet hot milk blend with almonds, turmeric, cinnamon and syrup or even wholesome hormone balancing lattes.
- Turmeric
This cousin of ginger is India’s golden spice gem that teams as a marvellous medicinal herb. Curcumin, the principal active ingredient in turmeric is responsible for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
What does it do?
Anti-inflammatory substances and antioxidants are excellent for prevention, and each is beneficial for your body. Turmeric can also help to lower cholesterol and regulate blood pressure which can reduce the risk of heart disease.
Why not try: exotic mango and turmeric coconut soft-serve yoghurt, flavoursome curries and awesome anti-inflammatory tea.
- Giloy
This vital vine is essential in any ayurvedic medicinal herb kit. It is nicknamed the ‘heart leaved moonseed’ due to its adorably shaped leaves. This trusty plant has been used for centuries in traditional medicine in order to treat a vast variety of disorders.
What does it do?
Giloy is jam-packed full of antioxidants, so much so that it has blood purifying capabilities. It is also known to aid digestion, banish bacterial diseases and manage blood glucose which is great for diabetics.
Why not try: refreshing Giloy juice, tasty garlic-infused kadha or revitalising tea with a touch of lemon.
- Liquorice
This is the common name for the Glycyrrhiza flowering plant. The root is the sweet part that we not only use to flavour sweets but also for medicinal purposes.
What does it do?
It is known for its amazing antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antiviral action as well as being a home remedy for coughs and colds. It can be used in gels or lotions to relieve skin conditions such as eczema and acne too. Then there’s also its naturally anti-ageing potential.
Why not try: sweet liquorice root tea, mix with it caramelised carrot to make a soup or take balanced booster supplements.
So why not reconnect with nature and enlighten yourself with the magic of immunity-boosting Ayurvedic herbs? There are a wealth of supplements, powders and teas out there. Please get in touch to learn more about the herbal products we have to offer. Remember to consult with a doctor before making any dietary changes!
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