Certain herbs and spices are essential to be added in our day-to-day nutrition, including the ones mentioned in this list. One of the safest and easiest ways to gain the maximum benefit from these supplements is taking them along with our daily meals. These ancient herbs not only help us manage systemic inflammations and boost immunity, they also keep our gut healthy and happy.
A note of caution: Although there are various claims about single drug remedies, it is hard to say that there is any particular herb that can do all for us. It is usually a combination of healthy lifestyle and also the correct and therapeutic use of a combination of herbs that helps to protect us effectively. That said, overuse of anything is equally harmful.
Some of these powerful herbs you should look out for to add in moderation to your diet:
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha has been known to be a potent immunity boosting herbs for centuries. It has also been used as a powerful adaptogen, which helps us manage stress. Ashwagandha not only has benefit on our body, but it also has a great action on mental functions and is used to treat anxiety and depression. This herb is also known to reduce steroid levels in the body and improves sleep quality. The compound ‘withaferin’ extracted from this herb is used in treating cancers as it helps to kill cancer cells.
Inulin
Inulin is derived from the chicory root and it is a potent fermentable soluble fibre, also referred to as prebiotic. Our gut bacteria can feed on these prebiotic fibres and help us maintain a healthy gut flora, thereby improving immunity and also strenghthening a strong gut-brain connection.
Giloy
Giloy is a very powerful anti-oxidant and like many other medicinal herbs, it helps to curb inflammation. Giloy also has an effect on the respiratory system and helps to improve lung function. This herb is also powerful in treating diabetes and other metabolic conditions.
Turmeric:
The age-old ingredient from mom’s kitchen can work wonders when it comes to immunity. Be it in your food, milk or even your tea, turmeric helps cure wounds, clears skins, aids in digestions and benefits your bones. Curcumin, a compound present in turmeric, is known to possess anti-inflammatory properties that help boost immunity. It also is a great anti-oxidant which helps to slow down the oxidative processes in the body and keep you young!
Licorice
Licorice can help your digestive system work more efficiently. The extract of licorice is used in treating various upper digestive symptoms such as indigestion, gastritis, GERD, heartburn and even gastric ulcers. Licorice is also used in eradicating the acidity and ulcer causing bacteria from our stomach.
Dr Manoj Kutteri is director and chief healing officer, Atmantan Naturals. This is not a paid promotion.
