A robust immune system is your body’s first line of defense. Seasonal illnesses, as well as day-to-day stresses, will all impact your body’s ability to protect itself. Therefore, it’s essential to have a strong immune system.
While new Western supplements are becoming increasingly common, traditional Ayurvedic healing methods have consistently shown the most success in enhancing the immune system; herbal teas are a prime example of how these traditional methods continue to provide significant value through their healing power.
According to Ayurvedic consultant & expert Dr. Deepak at TATA1mg, who has are five herbal teas that may support your immune system. Each tea contains high levels of phytonutrients and antioxidants that can help your body defend itself naturally against infections.
Let’s take a closer look at these five immunity-enhancing herbal teas and explore their benefits, as well as why they should be incorporated into your daily routine.
1. Tulsi Tea – Queen of Herbs for Immunity
Tulsi, also known as Holy Basil, has been revered in Ayurveda as an adaptogen for centuries. Dr. Deepak describes Tulsi tea as having “some of the strongest natural adaptogen benefits”. The most prominent health benefits attributed to Tulsi tea include its abilities to be an antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory agent, which can help to alleviate many of the symptoms associated with colds and flu-like illnesses.
Why Tulsi Strengthens the Immune System?
- Contains active ingredients such as eugenol and ursolic acid, which protect against illness and infection
- Because of its powerful antioxidant properties, it can help eliminate free radicals from the body.
- Helps to clear mucus from the lungs and sinuses, thereby providing relief from sinus and respiratory congestion
- Has been shown to reduce stress-induced suppression of the immune system
Ways to Prepare Tulsi Tea:
Boil 7-8 fresh tulsi leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried tulsi) in boiling water for 5 minutes. You may add honey to make it taste better.
Best Time To Consume
The best times to consume tulsi tea are in the morning or in the early evening, particularly during seasonal changes. However, it may also be consumed at bedtime for its calming effects.
2. Ginger And Turmeric Tea – A Powerful Duo For Immunity
Turmeric and ginger make an incredibly powerful immunity tea that Dr. Deepak recommends drinking every day, especially during the cold and flu season, for maximum benefit. Both spices have been used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for centuries as the best way to protect the body from bacterial and viral infections.
Why This Tea Works?
- Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, is one of nature’s most powerful anti-inflammatory agents, as well as being antiviral and very good for your immune system.
- Ginger is a natural aid for your digestive tract, which Ayurveda believes is key to a healthy immune system.
- When you combine both turmeric and ginger, they reduce the effects of coughing, phlegm, and sore throats. They also help to purify your blood and make it easier to absorb nutrients from food.
Ways to Prepare Tulsi Tea:
Take 1/4 a teaspoon of turmeric powder and half a teaspoon of freshly grated ginger, add them to boiling water, and simmer for five minutes. You can also add One pinch of black pepper powder to your ginger and turmeric tea, as the piperine in black pepper increases the absorption of curcumin in the bloodstream.
Best Time to Drink
Drink ginger and turmeric tea in the mid-morning or before going to bed for optimal soothing effects.
3. Ashwagandha Tea – The Stress Buster and Supporter of Immunity
Dr. Deepak explains how stress lowers your immune response, leaving you at risk for infection. Ashwagandha’s properties make this one of the top Ayurvedic Herbs to restore balance and support the immune system! Here’s how Ashwagandha can help to improve your immunity.
Benefits for the Immune System
- Ashwagandha decreases cortisol levels, resulting in less immune suppression from stress.
- It enhances the activity of white blood cells.
- It improves sleep quality, which is essential for the body’s ability to repair itself and recover from injuries.
- Ashwagandha also provides anti-inflammatory and antioxidant support.
Ways to Prepare Tulsi Tea:
Boil 1/4 teaspoon of ashwagandha root in hot water for ten minutes. You can add honey to enhance its taste when it is mildly warm.
Best Time to Drink
Evening or just before bedtime to stimulate the body’s ability to achieve a deep sleep while providing all of the benefits related to ashwagandha.
4. Giloy Tea– Immunity Shield
Ayurveda praises Giloy as one of the major Immunity Enhancers. This is because of its ability to enhance our Immunity, and it is obtained from plants called Guduchi, which is considered one of the Amrita plants (great ability to enhance our Immune System).
Dr. Deepak suggests that Giloy tea or kadha should be consumed for those who are prone to repeated infections.
What is the Importance of Giloy as a Powerful Immunity Enhancer?
- Giloy has the ability to help fight against chronic fever, repeated colds, and infections.
- Giloy can help to help purify your blood; Giloy helps to support liver function.
- Giloy helps to improve your body’s Immune System by stimulating the Macrophages.
- Giloy tea supports the overall health of your respiratory system.
Ways to Make Giloy Tea:
Boil 1/4 teaspoon of powder or small pieces of Giloy Stem in 1 Cup of Water for 10 minutes.
Best Time to Drink
The best time to consume this tea for optimal effects is first thing in the Morning before eating anything.
5. Cinnamon & Cloves Tea – Detoxify Your Body
Both Cinnamon and Cloves have naturally occurring Antimicrobial qualities. The properties of this tea have been discussed by Dr. Deepak to be not only effective for Immunity Building, but also to provide good digestion and circulation.
Cinnamon Clove Tea Provides Immunity Benefits like:
- Cinnamon and Cloves are beneficial for Fighting Bacteria and Viruses.
- Cinnamon and Cloves have Rich Antioxidants that Produce Strength to the Overall Immune System.
- Cinnamon and Cloves Assist in the Improvement of Digestion and Metabolism.
- Cinnamon and Cloves can assist in Reducing Inflammation in the Respiratory System.
Ways to Prepare Cinnamon-Cloves Tea:
Boil 1 small piece of Cinnamon Stick with 2-3 Cloves in 1 Cup of Water for 5-7 Minutes. You may also choose to add a few drops of Lemon Juice or Honey for Flavor and Purpose.
Best Time To Drink
Afternoons or evenings, especially during cold weather.
Conclusion
Herbal teas provide an excellent way to enjoy delicious and soothing drinks while tapping into thousands of years of Ayurvedic knowledge. Dr. Deepak recommends five specific herbal teas – Tulsi, Turmeric-Ginger, Ashwagandha, Giloy, and Cinnamon-Clove – that can help you naturally supercharge your immune system. Whether you seek seasonal health protection or quick relief from colds or coughs, or would like a boost in overall vitality, these teas can easily fit into your wellness regimen.
If you have any health concerns (i.e., medical conditions, pregnancy, or take prescription medications), it is essential to discuss using strong herbs like giloy or ashwagandha with an Ayurvedic practitioner to determine if they are appropriate for you. The most important aspect of reaping the long-term benefits of these herbs is to maintain a consistent regimen, moderate amount, and a maintained sense of balance.
FAQs
Can I drink all 5 immunity teas in one day(these teas can’t all be drunk together)?
Yes, you can drink them in one day, but drink them at different times. If you suffer from low blood pressure, you should also avoid consuming multiple strong/herbal forms, such as Giloy or Ashwagandha, as they could increase your blood pressure levels and cause complications for you.
When will I see results from drinking herbal teas?
It takes most people about 2-4 weeks of drinking herbal teas regularly (at least once per day) for improvement in energy and immunity.
Is it safe to drink Giloy tea every day?
Yes, it is safe for most people to drink Giloy tea regularly at moderate amounts. If you suffer from an autoimmune disease or a similar issue, you should consult your doctor before using Giloy tea daily.
Can children drink herbal immunity teas?
It is safe for older children to consume mild versions of herbal teas like Tulsi tea. However, you should avoid giving strong/herbal teabags like Ashwagandha or Giloy, especially if they are under your doctor’s care.
Which herbal tea can help enhance my immunity quickly?
Tulsi and turmeric-ginger tea are both very effective at providing fast relief from cold, cough, and inflammation.
Can I add sugar to my immunity teas?
In general, you should avoid adding sugar to herbal immunity tea as it can alter the properties and effectiveness of the tea. Use honey or jaggery, or another natural form of sweetener, in small amounts instead!
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