Homemade kadhas with common kitchen spices and ingredients is a safe way to combat seasonal flus and infections like cold and cough. With the change in weather, these warm kadhas may be a good option to build your body's defence by improving your immunity. If you've been wondering how exactly to make an effective kadha, you may try this recipe by chef Anahita Dhondy Bhandari. The chef shared a family recipe of homemade kadha on her Instagram account. She called it 'immunity-boosting drink', which may protect you from bacterial infections that float during the monsoon season.
This immunity-boosting drink is made with common Indian spices like moti elaichi (you may use green elaichi if you don't have black moti elaichi), kacchi haldi (fresh turmeric), laung (cloves), kali mirch (black peppercorns), tulsi (basil leaves), dal chini (cinnamon), adrak (ginger) and munnka (optional).
This kadha is very easy to make at home. Peel turmeric and ginger, and crush them in mortal and pestle. Bring the water to boil and add all the spices. Let it boil for 20-30 minutes till you get a nice yellow-coloured and aromatic drink. Sweeten it with honey or jaggery (gur) and have it regularly.
Watch the recipe video of immunity-boosting kadha:
(Also Read: How To Boost Immunity With Your Next Cup Of Chai)
Chef Anahita Dhondy Bhandari wrote on her post - "So while it's got all these spices which are anti-inflammatory, what really caught my eye was the addition of black pepper. Did you know? While black pepper may seem like an odd addition to the mix, its presence plays a substantial role. The addition of black pepper with turmeric increases the absorption of turmeric by 2000 percent when used in a 1:10 ratio of pepper to turmeric. Pretty amazing, right? Black pepper aids in combating respiratory conditions and rejuvenating the lungs."
(Also Read: How To Include More Vitamin D In Your Monsoon Diet)
This kadha is brimming with anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants; therefore, it may help relieve sore throat and cold, and may also boost the immune system.
"So with the monsoons upon us, and the situation with Covid, this drink can be made and had at home. It's soothing and delicious and well, most importantly, really good for you. Have it hot or warm, twice a day!," added the chef.