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We've all learned over the last two years how important it is to strengthen the body's natural defence system. If there's one thing we've learned from the pandemic, it's not to take our health for granted and that the best way to fight sickness is to strengthen our defence, i.e., our immune system.
The age-old Vedic Kadha, the mystical combination that has been a well-known part of history, is a fantastic place to start when adding immunity-boosting foods and beverages to our normal diet even if our immune system is skilled at fighting off infectious diseases.
What is Kadha?
Created by ancient sages with profound knowledge of herbs and spices, this decoction is used all over India as a general precaution to prevent colds and boost immunity. It is made using simple ingredients available in every kitchen.
Kadha is being re-discovered by the world as yet another powerfully potent superfood from the timeless tradition of ancient Indian wellness as it improves the body's natural ability to fight common ailments. Before discussing the preparations and proportions of Kadha, let's take a quick look at a few important benefits.
Benefits of Kadha
Highly effective against common cold and cough
Anti-viral and anti-inflammation
Natural adaptogen that helps in all eviating stress
Reduces mucus
Throat decongestant and soother
Boosts immunity
Strong detoxification
Fights internal infection
Reduces blood pressure
Regulates blood sugar
Aids digestion and acidity
Recipe of Kadha
In terms of preparation, it is generally made by boiling herbs and spices like cardamom, dry ginger, turmeric, black pepper, cloves, cinnamon, ajwain (carom seeds), fennel, amla (Indian gooseberry), tulsi (holy basil), licorice, etc.
This liquid is then strained and consumed.
It tastes mildly a stringent with highly soothing flavours, a perfect homemade beverage to cozy upto. It has pungent notes from cardamom and hints of earthy sweetness from cinnamon and fennel. The unmistakable hit of black pepper and dry ginger immediately clears the throat.
There is no single recipe for Kadha. Everyone has their own combination of spices and herbs. That are used, depending on availability. However, generally, all Kadha recipes will include cloves, cinnamon, dry ginger, licorice, and tulsi. While making your own Kadha at home, it is important to understand why you should use certain ingredients and how they will benefit your health.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a well-known spice that contains curcumin. Full of antioxidants, curcumin has high anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric also helps in fighting the free radicals in the body.
Black Pepper
Black pepper is a powerful spice with strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The piperine in black pepper increases the bio-availability (absorption of nutrients by the body) of curcumin and other compounds, making it the magical ingredient in Kadha.
Tulsi (Holy Basil)
Also called Indian Basil, Tulsi is loaded with Vitamins A and C. As a natural adaptogen, tulsi helps the body adapt to stress and anxiety. It has anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal properties that help fight infections internally. Tulsi helps lower blood sugar and cholesterol.
Ginger
Ginger is packed with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It helps in relieving nausea and aids digestion. Ginger is also said to help in lowering blood sugar.
Cinnamon
Made from the inner bark of cinnamon trees, this sweet spice is a powerhouse of antioxidants that boost immunity by negating the effect of free radicals in the body. It is also thought to be effective in fighting bacterial and fungal infections.
Cloves
These tiny flower buds have a strong, minty taste. Cloves are loaded with vitamins, and candles have anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic properties, and they help to improve respiration, stress relief, dental health, and blood circulation.
You can make your own version of Kadha at home using these ingredients in appropriate quantities. While it is recommended to have it daily, you can start building the habit by having 2-3 cups a week.
We all have hectic schedules and little time to spare, making it difficult to take care of our health. On such days, we all look for something more convenient, so if you prefer easy-to-brew teas that are made from 100% high-quality natural ingredients.
(Bala Sarda, Founder & CEO, VAHDAM India)
