Strengthen your immunity to fight monsoon illness with this tulsi and black pepper kadha

Monsoons are here, which means that besides getting respite from the scorching heat, you may also be at risk of catching infections, flu and cold. Your immunity goes for a toss during monsoon season, due to proliferation of infectious ailments, humidity, and unhygienic conditions.

To tackle this issue, your immunity needs a boost. Kadha is one such preventive measure to fight infections. It is an Ayurvedic home remedy that helps ward off seasonal infections and other ailments that are common during monsoons.

Here’s how a tulsi and pepper kadha can benefit your health

Black pepper (kaali mirchi) has been known to Indian taste buds for centuries. This spice is laded with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that helps keep infections at bay and also provide relief from discomfort caused due to wounds and swellings. It is enriched with vitamin C, which naturally boosts the immunity and works as an excellent antibiotic.

Let’s soak in the phenomenal benefits of our desi tulsi. Image Courtesy: Shutterstock

Tulsi (basil), on the other hand, is widely used as a medicinal herb in Ayurveda. It helps relieve stress, and boost energy levels. Tulsi contains antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging properties that fight harmful free radicals in the body. This is the perfect herb to include in the kadha as it helps treat cough, cold and sore throat. Tulsi mobilizes mucus and provides relief against respiratory issues such as bronchitis and asthma. 

So, let’s get ready to make a hot cup of wholesome goodness laced with immunity boosting and infection fighting properties.

Here’s how to make tulsi and black pepper kadha

You will need the following Ingredients:

1 inch of peeled ginger

4-5 cloves

1 teaspoon crushed black pepper

5-6 fresh tulsi leaves

½ teaspoon honey

2 inch cinnamon stick

Here’s how to prepare the kadha: 

Step 1: Take water in a deep saucepan and boil it.

Step 2: While the water is on a boil, crush ginger, cloves, black pepper and cinnamon.

Black pepper is great for your nose and throat. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

Step 3: Once the water is boiled, add all the crushed ingredients along with basil leaves to the saucepan.

Step 4: Cook on medium heat for about 20 minutes or till the concoction is reduced to half.

Step 5: Add honey to the mixture and consume it hot.

Using honey, ginger and cinnamon provides an extra layer of protection to your immunity levels. These ingredients are beneficial for your digestive tract due to its antimicrobial properties and also help control diabetes. Its antioxidant properties help fight fatigue and boost energy levels. Kadha can be prepared with a number of herbs and spices. Haldi or turmeric is also a great ingredient to add, as it has natural anti-inflammatory properties. 

So ladies, drink your kadha hot, and get ready to boost your immunity, and enjoy the monsoons!