Winter Wellness: How Can Immunity-Boosting Teas Keep You Healthy During Cold Season?

As the seasons change and fall turns into winter, let's add Ayurvedic Immune-Boosting Teas to our regular routine and take care of ourselves and our loved ones.

Immunity-boosting teas are an effective way to stay healthy during the cold winter months. They incorporate herbs and spices known for their immune-supporting properties, helping your body fight off infections, reduce inflammation, and stay energized.

Here are some benefits of how these teas work and some key ingredients to include:

1. Strengthening the Immune System

Herbs like Saffron and Turmeric are known for their ability to enhance the immune response, helping the body to resist viruses and bacteria. Saffron, for example, may increase white blood cell count, which is essential for fighting infections. Turmeric is rich in antioxidants and Curcimin, which support immunity and reduce the duration of cold symptoms.

2. Reducing Inflammation

Teas with anti-inflammatory herbs, like Ginger and Mint, soothe the body and can reduce inflammation associated with respiratory issues. Ginger, in particular, has warming properties that ease congestion and promote healthy circulation, while Mint's has been shown to have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

3. Soothing Respiratory Health

Herbs like Peppermint and Thyme have antimicrobial properties and can help to clear congestion, soothe sore throats, and support respiratory health. Peppermint, with its menthol content, helps to open airways, and Thyme’s antibacterial qualities help in maintaining respiratory wellness.

4. Supporting Digestive Health

Digestion and immunity are closely linked, so it’s beneficial to include teas that aid in digestion. Fennel, coriander, and cardamom support gut health, helping to maintain a balanced microbiome, which in turn strengthens immunity. These spices soothe the digestive tract, reduce bloating, and promote healthy digestion—especially helpful if you tend to indulge more during the holiday season.

Golden Milk with Saffron:

Golden milk with saffron is a luxurious and health-boosting beverage! This creamy drink combines the anti-inflammatory benefits of turmeric, the digestive and calming properties of saffron, and the soothing warmth of milk. It's perfect for promoting relaxation, especially before bedtime.

Ingredients

• 1 cup milk of choice (dairy, almond, or oat milk work well)

• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder

• 3-4 saffron strands

• A pinch of black pepper (to enhance turmeric absorption)

• 1/4 tsp cardamom powder (optional, for extra flavor)

• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)

Instructions

1. Warm the Milk: Pour the milk into a small saucepan and heat over medium heat.

2. Add Ingredients: Once the milk starts to warm, add the turmeric, saffron strands, black pepper, and cardamom.

3. Simmer: Stir well and let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes. The saffron will release its beautiful color and aroma, while the milk will take on a golden hue from the turmeric.

4. Sweeten and Serve: Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Stir in honey or maple syrup if desired for a touch of sweetness.

5. Enjoy: Pour into a mug and sip this soothing drink warm.

Benefits

Golden milk with saffron can:

• Reduce inflammation

• Support immune health

• Soothe the mind and body for a restful sleep

Enjoy this creamy, golden drink as a comforting end to your day!

Mint, Black Pepper, and Turmeric Immunity Tea

Here's a simple yet powerful tea recipe using mint, black pepper, and turmeric!

This blend has a mix of cooling and warming properties, making it both refreshing and soothing for the winter season. Mint offers respiratory support, black pepper enhances digestion and boosts the absorption of turmeric, and turmeric provides anti-inflammatory benefits.

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh mint leaves (or 1 tsp dried mint)

• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder (or 1-inch piece fresh turmeric, sliced)

• A pinch of black pepper (freshly ground)

• 1-2 cups of water

• Honey or lemon (optional, for flavor)

Instructions

1. Boil the Water: In a small pot, bring the water to a boil.

2. Add Ingredients: Add the mint leaves, turmeric, and black pepper to the water.

3. Simmer: Lower the heat and let the mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes. If using fresh turmeric, simmer for 10 minutes.

4. Strain and Serve: Strain the tea into a cup. Add honey or lemon if desired for extra flavor and immunity support.

5. Enjoy: Sip it warm and enjoy the soothing effects!

This tea is great for calming inflammation, improving digestion, and supporting respiratory health. Enjoy it daily for the best benefits!

Cardamom, Saffron & Almond Milk Wellness Tea:

Ingredients

• 2 green cardamom pods, slightly crushed

• 4-5 strands of saffron

• 1-2 cups Almond Milk

• 1 tsp honey or a small piece of jaggery (optional, for sweetness)

Instructions

1. Heat the Milk: In a small pot, bring the milk to a boil.

2. Add the Spices: Add the crushed cardamom pods and saffron strands to the boiling water.

3. Simmer: Lower the heat and let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the saffron to release its color and aroma.

4. Strain and Sweeten: Strain the tea into a cup. Add honey or jaggery if desired for a touch of sweetness.

5. Serve: Enjoy this warm, golden tea as a soothing winter drink!

This tea is not only flavorful but also calming, making it perfect for unwinding on chilly evenings. Saffron's vibrant color and aroma will make each cup feel like a luxurious treat.

Anti-Viral, Immunity Tea:

This Tea is a strong blend of anti-viral spices like Fennel seeds, Coriander seeds, Cumin seeds, Cloves, Black Pepper and organic Tulsi powder.

Add a dash of organic honey and enjoy its heart-warming, immune-boosting power!!

Ingredients: To make a week's supply of Immunity tea powder:

• Roast: 1 cup of Dhania (Coriander) seeds

•             1/2 cup of Jeera (Cumin) seeds

•             1/2 cup of Fennel (Saunf) seeds

•              1/4 cup of Black Pepper

•              10 Cloves / Lavang

• Roast for 5 minutes on low heat. Let it cool completely. Blend completely to a smooth powder. Add 4 Tbl.sp Organic Tulsi Powder.

• Mix well. Store in an air-tight glass bottle

Making the Immunity Tea -

• Start by boiling 5 cups of water on the stovetop.

• Add 4 tsp of the Immunity Tea powder and let the tea simmer on low heat for 5 minutes.

• Strain the tea and let it cool.

• Drink once a day

Stay Healthy; Stay Strong.

Namaste