February 14, 2019
With the schools out for half-term, parents might be feeling the pinch this February – plus not to mention, the recent cold weather snap has left us all a little under the weather, in more ways than one.
But, did you know that Indian spices are some of the best spices around to help ward off winter bugs and colds?
So, prepare to raid your pantry as we run through some of the top Indian spices that help prevent infections, ease sore throats and keep those pesky common colds at bay.
Easily one of the top spices used in almost every Indian household, turmeric has a wide number of health properties making it an ideal spice to use in the fight against colds.
Used for hundreds of years in both Indian and Chinese medicine, turmeric is rich in curcumin; a scientifically proven compound that can help to prevent heat disease, Alzheimer’s and cancer. It also holds strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidants making it ideal for those with depression and arthritis.
As turmeric is brilliant at boosting a body’s immunity, it helps to keep illnesses at bay and simply adding half a teaspoon to your daily diet can promote a healthier lifestyle. If you’re looking at something for colds and flu, why not drink a turmeric tea which has been known to help with colds, congestion and headaches?
Shaped like a star, hence its name, star anise is another popular ingredient in Indian cuisine and is rich in Vitamin C, Vitamin A and antioxidants. It can help to fight a sore throat, boost immunity and even aids digestion making it an ideal ingredient to add into your food when you’re feeling a little rough.
If you’re already in the throes of a sore throat and cough, simply add to star anise pods into boiling water and let sit for 15 minutes. Add a few drops of honey, strain and drink. Drinking star anise infused tea a couple of times a day should help to infuse your body with its immunity boosting benefits and help get rid of your ailments much quicker.
A staple in Indian cooking, you’ll most likely find ajwain seeds right at home in your kitchen pantry. Also known as carom, ajwain seeds are super effective in helping with a lot of daily problems, including digestive issues.
For digestion, simply add ajwain seeds to warm water and salt and swallow it to help alleviate stomach aches, flatulence and acidity. However, it’s also great for treating congestion and colds.
Ajwain contains Thymol which gives it anctimicrobial properties. Simply add some ajwain seeds to hot water, let them infuse for a few minutes and inhale the steam. This will help to clear any congestion and provides some relief for blocked noses and sinus pressure. For coughs and phlegm, simply mix ajwain and some jaggery powder and have one small teaspoon. This should help to clear your throat and mucus in no time at all.
We love preparing all our food using the finest ingredients and the freshest spices at Royal Nawaab. If you’re interested in visiting us, simply visit our website or call us on 0208 998 6151 or visit us at the Hoover Building, Perivale, London, UB6 8DB.
In the meantime, why not visit our Facebook page and let us know what spices you eat in order to treat your common cold?
