Fight Colds with Fire! 5 Spicy Immunity Boosters
The cold and flu season is upon us, but you can fight back against sniffles with the fiery flavors found in your spice rack. Certain spices contain potent compounds that may help boost your immunity, ward off illness, and soothe symptoms. In this article, we’ll explore five warming, zesty recipes loaded with antiviral and anti-inflammatory spices to help you stay healthy all season long.
Kick cold and flu symptoms to the curb with these spicy, immunity-boosting recipes. As you cook up aromatic spices like garlic, turmeric, and cayenne pepper, you’ll also reap the benefits of their cold-fighting compounds. Science shows that certain spices not only pack a flavorful punch, but also provide antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory effects. Whip up some spicy comfort to blast away the chills!
Ginger-Orange-Clove Tea
This vibrant citrus tea blending the sweetness of orange with the zing of ginger and clove is the ultimate cold remedy. Ginger’s active compounds may help relieve coughs and soothe sore throats. The antibacterial essential oils in clove can fight off infection, while vitamin C-rich orange boosts immunity. Sip this soothing brew at the first sign of the sniffles.
ingredients:
– 3 cups water
– 1 inch ginger root, sliced
– 1 orange, sliced
– 3 cloves
– Honey to taste
Directions:
Simmer water, ginger, orange slices, and cloves for 15 minutes. Strain and stir in honey as desired.
Immunity-Boosting Chicken Soup
Grandma was right – chicken soup is one of the best homemade remedies for chasing away cold symptoms. This zesty version amps up the healing spices like garlic, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Garlic’s active compound allicin has powerful antibacterial and antiviral effects. Turmeric contains curcumin to reduce inflammation and relieve congestion. Cayenne’s spicy heat helps clear sinuses. Feel better with each spoonful!
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 carrots, sliced
– 3 stalks celery, sliced
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 tablespoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 6 cups chicken broth
– 2 boneless chicken breasts
– Juice from 1 lemon
– Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Heat oil in a pot over medium heat. Cook onion, carrots, celery, garlic, turmeric, and cayenne for 5 minutes. Add broth and chicken. Simmer for 20 minutes until chicken is cooked. Shred chicken and stir back into broth. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.
Spicy Pumpkin Soup
This velvety pumpkin soup infused with the anti-inflammatory power of garlic, ginger and cayenne pepper provides a savory, comforting meal perfect for warding off fall and winter chills. Pumpkin is loaded with immunity-boosting vitamin A, while garlic and ginger contain allicin and gingerol, compounds that can help prevent infection. Cayenne pepper clears congestion and boosts circulation. The sweetness of pumpkin balances out the heat for a delicious dose of natural cold medicine.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 yellow onion, diced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, ginger and cayenne. Cook for 3 minutes until fragrant. Stir in pumpkin puree and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 20 minutes. Puree with an immersion blender or in batches in a blender. Stir in heavy cream. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Achy Breaky Beef Chili
When you’ve got the chills, this protein-packed beef chili made with a trio of immunity all-stars – garlic, turmeric and cayenne pepper – is sure to warm you up. Lean beef provides iron to keep your immune system strong, while antibacterial garlic and anti-inflammatory turmeric work together to fight infection. Cayenne pepper’s spicy heat helps clear congestion and thin mucus. Adjust the spice level to your comfort – the cayenne will have you breathing easy in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 tablespoon turmeric
– 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or to taste)
– 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes
– 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
In a large pot over medium heat, cook beef and onion until beef is browned, about 6 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more. Stir in spices and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add tomatoes, beans and broth. Simmer for 15 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Zesty Orange Chicken
This sweet and spicy orange chicken is just what the doctor ordered when you’re under the weather. Orange juice and zest provide an extra blast of immune-boosting vitamin C. Anti-inflammatory turmeric, antibacterial garlic, and sinus-clearing cayenne and ginger add an extra kick of cold-fighting power. The balance of sweet citrus and spicy heat makes even the scratchiest throat feel soothed.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/4 c fresh orange juice
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
– 1 tsp turmeric
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Zest from 1 orange
– 2 Tbsp olive oil, divided
– Salt and pepper
Directions:
Combine chicken, orange juice, garlic, ginger, turmeric, cayenne and orange zest in a bowl. Marinate 30 minutes up to overnight. Heat 1 Tbsp oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until browned and cooked through, about 3-5 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate and repeat with remaining chicken, adding remaining oil to skillet between batches. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
Spice up your health and wellness routine this season by cooking up aromatic antiviral and anti-inflammatory spices. With fiery flavors like ginger, turmeric, garlic and cayenne pepper, you can fight colds and boost immunity with delicious recipes that provide a dose of natural cold medicine. Turn up the heat in your kitchen and blast away winter chills!
Warm Up from Within: Soothing Spiced Teas for Cold Season
As the weather turns colder and sniffles threaten to disrupt cozy evenings at home, a warming cup of spiced tea can be a comforting ally. Soothing, fragrant steam helps clear sinuses while time-tested spice blends provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory power to give your immune system a natural boost.
Sipping a hot brew is soothing self-care, but traditional chai, turmeric tea, and other spiced teas also have science behind their cold-fighting capabilities. Modern research shows that many spices contain potent antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties that can shore up your defenses against whatever bugs are going around.
So while your spiced tea warms you from within, the active compounds get to work protecting your cells and calming inflammation. This double-duty makes a steaming mug the perfect way to unwind while also feeling like you’re doing something good for your health.
The Spicy Root with a Healing Reputation
Turmeric tea is a favorite for soothing sore throats and stuffy heads. This brilliant golden spice has been used for thousands of years in Ayurvedic medicine to treat everything from wounds to respiratory illnesses. Modern science backs up turmeric’s legendary medicinal status.
The key active compound curcumin has strong antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant capabilities that reinforce immunity and calm respiratory irritation. Turmeric teams up beautifully with other immune-supporting ingredients like ginger, black pepper, honey, and lemon to create a soothing tea that wards off illness.
Simmer turmeric with coconut milk and a dash of black pepper for a creamy, comforting brew. The pepper helps boost the bioavailability of curcumin while the healthy fats in coconut milk further enhance absorption. Add a spoonful of manuka honey to soothe your throat and you have an excellent triple-threat cold remedy straight from your kitchen.
An Ancient Masala with Modern Benefits
Chai tea has its roots in Ayurvedic tradition, created by ancient healers to boost vitality and vigor. The traditional blend of ginger, cardamom, cinnamon, clove, and black pepper creates a potent combination of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that support overall wellness.
Modern research confirms that each of these spices offers unique health benefits. Ginger soothes nausea and upset stomachs, cinnamon stabilizes blood sugar and fights bacteria, while clove, cardamom, and black pepper each provide an antioxidant boost.
Simmering the spices together in milk allows you to fully extract both their volatile essential oils and fat-soluble compounds. The milk proteins and coconut oil serve as an excellent carrier for the key compounds, enhancing bioavailability. Add a bit of raw honey and you have a soothing, nutrient-dense beverage that provides a powerful medicinal punch.
Sip chai tea throughout cold season to ward off bugs and provide steady immune support. The combination of spices creates a synergistic effect, providing more benefit together than isolated on their own. Harness centuries of Ayurvedic wisdom and brew a batch of this spicy elixir whenever you’re feeling under the weather.
A Soothing Tea for Cold Nights
Sometimes you want comfort in a cup, not medicinal potency. Familiar flavors like cinnamon, orange peel, cloves, and star anise create a gently spiced tea perfect for sipping by the fire. Cinnamon and clove team up to soothe sore throats, provide antioxidant support, and calm inflammation. Citrusy orange peel, licorice-y star anise, and tart hibiscus add brightness and depth of flavor.
Steep the blend in your favorite black or herbal base tea with a bit of honey or milk. The tannins in black tea support respiratory health while also lending a rich, warming quality. Milk proteins bind to the active compounds in the spices, boosting bioavailability. Or go for a lighter tea base like rooibos or honeybush. These caffeine-free herbs make a smooth, mellow backdrop for cozy spice.
However you brew it, this lightly spiced tea blend evokes hygge, that unique Danish feeling of coziness and contentment. Ward off winter bugs and chase away the chill with aromatic steam and familiar flavors. Sometimes the simplest remedies really are the best medicine.
Ancient Remedies, Modern Applications: History of Medicinal Spices
Spices have been used for medicinal purposes since ancient times. Many of the spices we cook with today have a long history of traditional use to prevent and treat illness. Modern research is now confirming some of these historical applications, revealing the science behind spices’ immunity-boosting potential.
Turmeric, a bright orange-yellow spice common in Indian curries, has been used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for thousands of years. Historical texts describe turmeric as a “universal panacea” for illnesses from colds to wounds to liver disorders. Today, an active compound in turmeric called curcumin is being studied for its wide-ranging anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiviral effects. Consuming turmeric may help boost immunity by reducing inflammation and protecting cells from damage.
Ginger, another spice rack staple, was highly valued for its medicinal properties in ancient China, India, and the Middle East. References to ginger’s healing abilities date back over 5,000 years. Ginger continues to be a go-to remedy for nausea and other digestive complaints. Modern research suggests ginger’s bioactive compounds called gingerols have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities that support immune defense. Sipping ginger tea is a tasty way to reap these potential benefits.
Garlic has an equally long history of use as medicine and to ward off disease, traced back to ancient Egypt, India, Greece and Rome. Historically, garlic was believed to combat infections, digestive issues, wounds, and fatigue. Today science is confirming garlic’s potent germ-fighting abilities. Garlic’s sulfur-containing compounds show antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal activity. Garlic also appears to stimulate immune cells. Adding more garlic to your recipes is a flavorful way to promote good health.
Black pepper and chilies also have a place in the ancient medicinal spice cabinet. Black peppercorns were treasured for their healing properties in India’s Ayurvedic traditions, credited with helping numerous health conditions. Piperine, the compound giving black pepper its heat, is now being examined for its immune-supporting effects. Chilies have an equally long history of culinary and medicinal use in the Americas and Asia. Capsaicin, the fiery compound in chilies, likely evolved as the pepper plant’s defense against fungi. Applied topically or consumed, it has analgesic, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Exploring the traditional medicinal uses of everyday spices opens up a world of flavorful, functional foods to boost immunity. Modern science is rediscovering their antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant capabilities. So next time you spice up a dish, consider that dash of turmeric or shake of cayenne as preventive medicine and a nod to ancient wisdom. Keep your immunity strong and your food full of flavor using spices wisely.
Spice Up Your Day: Antiviral Properties of Common Spices
Fight Back Against Colds with Antiviral Spices
As cold and flu season approaches, it’s time to stock up on spices with science-backed antiviral properties. Adding these immunity-boosting spices to your favorite recipes is a delicious way to help ward off seasonal sickness. Read on to learn about the antiviral superpowers hiding in your pantry!
Fire Up Defenses with Hot Chili Peppers
If you love dishes with a kick of heat, you’re in luck. Chili peppers contain capsaicin, the compound that gives them their spicy burn. Research shows capsaicin has potent antiviral effects against influenza, herpes viruses, and more. So spice up your food with hot peppers to help spice up your antiviral defenses!
Boost Immunity with the Antiviral Alliums
The allium family of vegetables, which includes garlic, onions, shallots, leeks, and chives, is packed with beneficial sulfur compounds. These compounds have been shown to fight viral infections and boost immune health. Garlic in particular has powerful antiviral effects against a wide range of viruses. Adding liberal amounts of these antiviral alliums to your recipes can give your defenses a major boost!
Spice Things Up with Ginger and Turmeric
Ginger and turmeric, common spices in various Asian and Indian cuisine, have an impressive resume of antiviral capabilities. Curcumin, the main active compound in turmeric, has been studied extensively for its antiviral properties against respiratory viruses. Ginger also packs a punch, with antiviral effects against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).Blend these aromatic antiviral spices into teas, stir fries, soups, and more to support immune health.
Garnish with Antiviral Herbs
Many popular culinary herbs also boast antiviral superpowers. Oregano, sage, and thyme contain polyphenolic compounds such as rosmarinic acid and flavonoids that combat viral infections. Even the humble parsley is rich in apigenin, a flavonoid that research suggests may inhibit replication of coronavirus. Sprinkle these potent antiviral herbs generously onto your dishes for both flavor and defense!
Brew Up Antiviral Spice Tea Blends
One of the simplest ways to incorporate antiviral spices into your routine is in the form of soothing teas. Try steeping sliced ginger with lemon and honey, or create your own signature spice blend with ingredients like cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, cardamom pods, black peppercorns, turmeric, and mint leaves. Sipping cups of antioxidant-rich antiviral tea is the perfect way to keep your defenses strong while warming up on chilly days.
By stocking up on antiviral herbs and spices like chili peppers, garlic, turmeric, and oregano, you can add a regular boost of immune-enhancing compounds to your diet. Research continues to affirm the impressive antiviral capabilities of many everyday spices and herbs. So skip the supplements and fight back against colds by spicing up your cooking instead! Adding these powerful plant-based antivirals is one of the tastiest ways to help keep seasonal sickness at bay.
Beyond Black Pepper: Exploring Immune-Boosting Spice Blends
Black pepper is commonly used to add a spicy kick to recipes, but did you know that there are many other flavorful spices that also provide health benefits? Immune-boosting spice blends incorporate powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help ward off illness. In this article, we explore some unique spice blends that you can easily add to your meals to give your immune system a boost.
Spices like garlic, ginger, turmeric, cayenne, cinnamon, and rosemary have potent medicinal properties that boost immunity. But instead of using just one spice at a time, blending multiple spices together can provide even greater effects. The combined phytochemicals and nutrients work synergistically to reduce inflammation, fight infection, support respiratory health, and more.
Here are some tips for concocting your own immunity-boosting spice mixes at home. Start with an aromatic base like oregano, thyme, or cumin seeds and add warming spices like cayenne, paprika, cinnamon, and ginger. You can also include antiviral herbs like garlic, onion, sage, and rosemary. Consider adding a touch of sweetness with clove, nutmeg, cardamom or allspice to round out the flavors. Play around with different spice combinations to create unique blends that you can sprinkle on soups, roasted vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and more to give your meals a healthful punch of flavor.
Now that you know the basics for crafting your own spice mixes, let’s explore some specific blends that have science-backed benefits for supporting immune defense:
Golden Immunity Blend
This sunny spice mix gets its vibrant color from the intense yellow pigments of turmeric. Known for its incredible anti-inflammatory and antioxidant content, turmeric is combined here with black pepper, cumin, coriander, and ginger. Sprinkle this infusion on cauliflower, rice, chicken, lentils, yogurt and more for a warm, earthy flavor and plenty of curcumin – a potent compound that can help regulate immune function.
Rosemary Defense Blend
With its woodsy, pine-like aroma and flavonoids that stimulate the immune system, rosemary makes an excellent addition to any immunity-focused blend. We’ve teamed rosemary with thyme, sage, garlic, lemon zest and cayenne for a blend that packs an antiviral punch. Toss it with olive oil and roasted winter squash, use it to season soups and stews, or add it to hummus for a kick of flavor and health benefits.
Spicy Cider Blend
Recalling the essence of a warm cup of apple cider with cinnamon sticks, this spice mix blends the sweet and spicy. Featuring cinnamon, ginger, clove, orange peel and cayenne pepper, this blend contains antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds that help shore up your defenses. Stir it into oatmeal, sprinkle over baked apples, or whisk it into hot tea for an invigorating immunity lift.
Anti-Inflammatory Bombay Blend
This recipe draws inspiration from Indian cuisine, utilizing traditional Ayurvedic spices like turmeric, ginger, coriander and cumin which have been used for centuries to treat inflammation. The addition of hot red pepper flakes and mustard seeds provide an extra immune stimulant. Put this zingy mixture into curries, lentil soups, chickpeas, roasted veggies and more to turn up the heat on seasonal health.
Immune Booster Shawarma Spice
This unique blend combines Middle Eastern flavors like sumac, thyme, oregano, paprika and cumin with immune-enhancing ingredients like garlic, turmeric, cinnamon and cayenne. Sprinkle on chicken or tofu before grilling, mix into Greek yogurt for a vegetable dip, or use it to season roasted cauliflower. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects help provide natural defenses against illness.
So be adventurous and start blending your own signature spice mixes! Playing around with various healing herbs and spices is an enjoyable way to boost immunity through delicious recipes all season long. Be sure to bookmark some of the spice blends above to help ward off winter ills and put a flavorful spin on your cooking routine.
Kitchen Cures: Science-Backed Benefits of Anti-Inflammatory Spices
Spices have been used for centuries as both cooking ingredients and natural remedies. Many common spices contain beneficial compounds that have been scientifically shown to reduce inflammation. Incorporating more anti-inflammatory spices into your diet can help boost your immunity and fight off illness. Read on to learn about some of the best science-backed kitchen cures for reducing inflammation.
Turmeric: The Golden Spice
Turmeric has become extremely popular recently thanks to its active compound curcumin, which is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent. Studies have found that turmeric can improve immune response and reduce inflammation associated with respiratory conditions like colds and flu. The vibrant golden hue of this versatile spice comes from the same beneficial curcuminoid compounds. Adding fresh turmeric root or powder into teas, soups, rice dishes, and curries is an easy way to reap the anti-inflammatory rewards of this ancient remedy. Be sure to pair turmeric with black pepper, as piperine enhances the bioavailability and absorption of curumin. Give your immunity a boost with these science-backed benefits of turmeric.
Ginger: A Warming Root
Like its relative turmeric, ginger has a long history of medicinal use for treating inflammatory conditions. Ginger contains the active compound gingerol which can inhibit inflammatory markers. Fresh ginger root makes a soothing tea or can be used in stir fries, marinades, and baking. Recent studies also show promise for ginger supplements when taken regularly at preventative doses. Warm up from within and calm inflammation with spicy, fragrant ginger.
Cinnamon: A Sweet and Spicy Comfort
A staple spice in many fall and winter baked goods and hot drinks, cinnamon lends its cozy sweetness to comfort food. But this familiar spice also packs potent anti-inflammatory benefits. The compound cinnamaldehyde gives cinnamon its distinctive flavor and medicinal qualities. Research suggests that cinnamon can reduce swelling and ease sore throat pain associated with colds. Stir cinnamon into oatmeal, add a stick to hot tea or cider, and bake it into spice cookies and desserts this season.
Garlic and Onions: Flavorful Alliums
Don’t let their strong scents and flavors fool you – garlic and onions contain beneficial organosulfur compounds that boast anti-inflammatory effects. From warding off vampires to fighting viruses, garlic enjoys a long folkloric history. Studies confirm that garlic supplementation can significantly reduce cold and flu severity by blocking inflammatory pathways. Similarly, onions contain anti-inflammatory quercetin and the active compound thiosulfinates. Sautéing garlic and onions to start soups, chilis, stir fries, and more can help strengthen your defenses against illness.
Peppers: A Vitamin C Boost
All types of peppers contain impressive amounts of immune-supporting vitamin C. But spicy chili peppers have the added benefit of capsaicin, a compound that exhibits anti-inflammatory properties. Enjoying peppers raw, roasted, or incorporated into salsas, chilis, curries, and stir fries can stimulate sinus and respiratory health. The heat of spicy peppers may literally help clear congestion! For those who can’t tolerate intense heat, milder red and green bell peppers still provide a hefty dose of vitamin C.
Kitchen Cures: Science-Backed Benefits of Anti-Inflammatory Spices
With cold and flu season ramping up, stock your kitchen with anti-inflammatory spices to stay healthy. Ancient medicinal wisdom combined with modern scientific research shows the measurable benefits of everyday spices. Work turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, garlic, onions, and chili peppers into your routine to combat inflammation. Boost your immunity deliciously by cooking and baking with these science-backed remedies hiding right in your pantry. Add a dash of spice and sprinkle of anti-inflammatory compounds into teas, stir fries, curries, and more. Keep colds and flus at bay without prescription medications by unleashing the soothing powers of familiar kitchen cures.
Defense from Your Pantry: Everyday Spices for Seasonal Health
As cold and flu season approaches, it’s time to fortify your defenses! Your kitchen pantry likely already contains an arsenal of immunity-boosting spices that can help ward off seasonal illnesses when incorporated into delicious recipes. Read on to discover how everyday spices can boost your health and wellness all season long.
Spicing Up Wellness
Many common spices contain antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant compounds that strengthen your immune system. By cooking and baking with these flavored powders, you give your meals and treats a flavor boost while also boosting your defenses against coughs, sniffles, and other cold weather ailments. This article will explore science-backed benefits of five immunity-enhancing spices and provide spice-filled recipes to help you banish germs from your kitchen.
An Ancient Remedy: Turmeric
Turmeric has a long history as an antiviral and anti-inflammatory remedy in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine. The active compound curcumin gives this vivid yellow spice its immune-enhancing abilities as well as its signature color and flavor. Research shows that curcumin attacks flu viruses and inhibits replication of respiratory infections. It also reduces inflammation in the lungs and nasal passages, providing relief from cough, sore throat, and congestion. These antimicrobial effects make turmeric the perfect addition to broths, teas, rice dishes, curries, and more during cold season.
The Power of Ginger
Another ancient remedy for respiratory ailments, ginger has remained popular for its ability to soothe nausea, pain, and inflammation. Like turmeric, ginger contains specialized compounds called gingerols that fight bacteria, viruses, and fungi while reducing swelling in mucous membranes. Sipping ginger tea is a classic cold remedy; you can also incorporate fresh or dried ginger into stir fries, marinades, and desserts this season.
An Antiviral Allium: Garlic
Garlic belongs to the allium family along with onions, leeks, and shallots. These pungent bulbs contain allicin, an organosulfur compound with potent antibacterial and antiviral effects. Allicin blocks enzymes that pathogens require to generate energy and replicate. One study found that regular garlic supplementation reduced common cold frequency by over 60% compared to the placebo. Smash fresh garlic and let it rest for 10 minutes before adding it to savory dishes to activate allicin production. Alternatively, aged garlic extract provides beneficial compounds without the strong flavor and odor.
The Pepper Pantry
Finally, don’t underestimate the power of peppers—both the sweet and hot varieties provide a bevy of beneficial plant compounds. Sweet bell peppers contain almost twice as much vitamin C per gram as citrus fruits, making them an excellent choice for boosting your nutrient intake during cold season. Chili peppers like cayenne get their heat from capsaicin, which temporarily stimulates mucus membranes and triggers the release of immune cells throughout the respiratory tract. Sprinkle chili flakes or cayenne powder into soups, broths, and stir fries or try our immunity-boosting recipes below!
Protect Yourself Deliciously: Soothing Spiced Elixirs
As cold and flu season approaches, it’s time to stock up on ingredients to craft soothing spiced elixirs that can help boost your immunity. Sipping on warm, aromatic drinks filled with spices that have antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties is a tasty way to help your body protect itself from illness.
In this article, we’ll explore five spice-filled soothing elixir recipes that you can easily make at home using common ingredients. Read on to discover how ingredients like fresh ginger, cinnamon sticks, turmeric powder, cloves, black peppercorns, lemons, honey and more can be transformed into delicious drinks that safeguard your health.
Ginger Lemon Honey Tea
This classic combination of immune-supporting ingredients makes a zesty elixir. Ginger’s phenolic compounds are known to aid respiratory and gut health. Lemons provide vitamin C, an essential nutrient for immunity. Raw honey has antibacterial and antimicrobial capabilities.
To make a cup, steep thinly sliced ginger root and a cinnamon stick in hot water for 5-10 minutes. Strain if desired and stir in the fresh juice from half a lemon plus a teaspoon of raw honey. Sip this bright, gingery blend to help protect yourself from invading germs.
Golden Milk
This rich, golden spice elixir has its origins in Ayurvedic traditions and has recently become popular in the West. The key ingredient is turmeric, whose active compound curcumin is packed with antioxidants and boasts impressive anti-inflammatory effects. Black pepper aids curcumin absorption, while coconut milk adds creamy nutritious fat.
Simmer crushed turmeric root or powder, cracked black pepper and sliced ginger in coconut milk for 5-10 minutes. You can enhance the medicinal qualities by using ghee (clarified butter). Stir in honey to taste and enjoy this immunity-boosting elixir.
Chai Concentrate
This strong chai concentrate forms the base for a spicy tea that can be customized to your taste. By making a concentrate, you coax the maximum flavor and health benefits from common spices like cloves, cardamom pods, cinnamon sticks, peppercorns, star anise and fennel seeds. Simmer them in water before straining and diluting with milk of your choice.
Drink on its own or use as a base for chai lattes. The combination of aromatic spices makes a delicious drink that helps open sinus passages and may stimulate digestion. Its antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects support whole body immunity.
Beetroot and Carrot Shot
For those who prefer vegetable-based elixirs over milky drinks, this sweet and earthy shot blends immune-boosting beetroot with beta carotene-rich carrots. To make it, juice equal parts raw beets and carrots until you have 1 cup of juice. Pour into a small pan with 1⁄4 tsp cayenne, 1⁄2 tsp cinnamon, 1⁄2 tsp turmeric, 1 tbsp lemon juice and 1 tbsp maple syrup. Warm over medium heat for 1-2 minutes and enjoy this vibrant veggie shot daily.
This quick beetroot and carrot shot allows you to reap the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits of spices and veggies. It may enhance immune cell activity and blood flow. The cayenne pepper provides stimulation as you drink.
Mulled Wine
This soothing, immunity-boosting spiced wine can be made with red or white wine. Simmer your choice of wine with sliced oranges or lemons, whole cloves, cinnamon sticks and brandy or rum for 10 minutes. Ladle into mugs and enjoy the fruit and festive aromas.
The vitamin C content gets a boost from the citrus fruits. Cloves contain antioxidants like gallic acid that may support immune health. As an occasional evening treat, this timeless spiced wine comforts from the inside out.
Craft Your Own Spiced Elixirs
These five recipes demonstrate endless possibilities for blending spices into drinks that fortify immunity. Customize them to suit your tastes and health needs by experimenting with ingredients. Discover new spice combinations that you find soothing and enjoyable to drink on a regular basis.
Sipping daily mugs, glasses or shots of these aromatic elixirs made from simple whole food ingredients is a nourishing ritual. As you slowly drink in the layered flavors infused with health-protective compounds, you may feel your inner warmth and wellbeing grow.
So as cold weather and seasonal illness threatens, arm yourself with an arsenal of ingredients to create spiced elixirs that help boost your immunity deliciously. With each sip of soul-soothing ginger lemon honey tea, vibrant beetroot carrot shot or fragrant mulled wine, you support your body’s defenses naturally.
Zesty Solutions: Liven Up Immunity with Hot & Sweet Spice Mixes
Zesty Solutions: Liven Up Immunity with Hot & Sweet Spice Mixes
As the cold and flu season ramps up, it’s time to turn up the heat in the kitchen! Warming spices not only provide comfort on chilly days, but they have incredible immune-boosting powers as well. By incorporating specific spice blends into your everyday meals, you can give your body the antiviral ammunition it needs to fend off illness. Read on for zesty spice mix ideas that will liven up your immunity all season long.
Fire up Your Defenses with Warming Blends
When you’re looking to give your immune system a kick, spices that create heat are your best friend. Chili peppers, ginger, cinnamon, and mustard seed all contain compounds that literally turn up your body temperature. This fever-like effect supports your natural defenses against infection. By blending these heating spices together and adding them generously to soups, stews, roasted veggies, and more, you can fire up your antiviral protections.
Some tasty immunity-boosting spice mix ideas in this category include:
– Sweet & Spicy Cinnamon Chili Rub – Toss cubed butternut squash or sweet potatoes with olive oil and this blend of cinnamon, chili powder, cumin, and brown sugar before roasting. The sugar will caramelize while the chili and cinnamon permeate the veggies with antiviral compounds.
– Ginger Mustard Marinade – Whisk together grated ginger, dry mustard, garlic, lemon juice and olive oil for an ultra-zesty marinade for chicken, pork, or tofu. Allow to marinate for 30 minutes or more to let the spices really soak in before grilling or baking.
– Five Spice & Chili Flakes – This East-meets-West blend adds an intriguing depth of flavor along with antiviral heat to stir fries, curries, and more. Toss in sautéed veggies, tofu or meat during the last few minutes of cooking to permeate the ingredients with spice.
Embrace Sweet & Savory with Warm Spices
While hot spices crank up your internal temperature, their sweet and savory counterparts provide antiviral ammunition as well. Spices like turmeric, cumin, coriander, cloves, and nutmeg have impressive immune-enhancing resumes. Blending them together, whether in rubs, marinades or spice pastes, gives you delicious ways to work them into meals every day.
Some mouthwatering sweet and savory spice mix ideas include:
– Immunity Curry Paste – This zingy blend of turmeric, ginger, garlic, coriander and cumin gets stirred into coconut milk for an easy curry sauce. Toss in your protein and veggies of choice for an Indian-inspired immunity booster.
– Turkish-Spiced Roast Chicken – Rub chicken pieces all over with a mix of smoked paprika, coriander, cumin and lots of lemon zest before roasting. The spice combo gives a incredible depth of savory flavor to simple roast chicken.
– Cloved Orange & Ginger Tea – Simmer thinly sliced orange wheels and grated ginger in water with whole cloves and a cinnamon stick. Strain and sip this vitamin C-packed tea warm or chilled over ice for an immune lift any time.
As you explore these zesty spice mix ideas, remember that adding spices regularly is key to building up virus-fighting compounds in your system before illness strikes. So try whipping up a new blend each week to spice up everyday meals. Whether stirred into soups and stews, rubbed onto meats and veggies before roasting, or blended into marinades, spice mixes make it deliciously easy to liven up your meals and your immunity all at once.
Skip the Sniffles: Ward Off Illness with Warming Recipes
As the weather turns cold and flu season approaches, it’s time to stock your kitchen with immunity-boosting ingredients. Skip the sniffles this year by warming up with spice-filled recipes designed to help ward off illness. This article will explore science-backed spices and blends that have antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and protective properties – all while tasting delicious.
The key is heat – capsaicin, the compound that gives chili peppers their kick, has been shown to help clear sinuses, soothe sore throats, and even boost immunity. We’ll use warming spices like cayenne, cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, garlic, and black pepper in tasty combinations that fight inflammation, stimulate circulation, and may protect your body from infection. Drink up soothing spiced teas, or get your vitamins from vibrant curries and stir fries. It’s time to fire up your immunity from within!
Spiced Sweet Potato Corn Chowder
This vegetarian corn chowder is filled with vitamin A-rich sweet potatoes and gets an immunity boost from anti-inflammatory turmeric, antiviral garlic, and circulation-stimulating cayenne and black pepper. The spice blend can help ward off illness and soothe cold symptoms while providing a comforting, creamy base. Serve with a side of crusty bread for a simple, soothing meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 TBSP olive oil
– 1 yellow onion, diced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 TBSP minced ginger
– 1 tsp turmeric
– 1⁄4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 3 cups corn kernels, fresh or frozen
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1⁄2 cup full fat coconut milk
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions:
1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and carrots and cook for 5 minutes until softened.
2. Add garlic, ginger, turmeric, and cayenne and cook for 1 more minute.
3. Pour in broth, corn and sweet potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, until potatoes are fork tender.
4. Carefully transfer half the soup to a blender. Puree until smooth, then return to the pot.
5. Stir in coconut milk and lemon juice. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Ginger-Garlic Chicken Noodle Soup
This classic chicken noodle gets upgraded with fresh ginger and garlic, two ingredients long used in traditional medicine for their antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. Sip this soup at the first sign of the sniffles for a warm, comforting meal that can help your body protect itself and recover faster.
Ingredients:
– 2 TBSP olive oil
– 1 yellow onion, diced
– 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 3 celery stalks, sliced
– 6 garlic cloves, minced
– One 2-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and grated (about 2 TBSP)
– 8 cups chicken broth
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 6 oz whole wheat noodles
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Chopped parsley for garnish
Directions:
1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots and celery. Cook for 6-7 minutes until vegetables have softened.
2. Add garlic and ginger and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
3. Add broth and whole chicken breasts. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Remove cooked chicken breasts, shred meat, and return to pot.
5. Stir in noodles and cook 7-10 minutes until al dente.
6. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice. Season to taste with salt and black pepper.
7. Garnish bowls of soup with fresh parsley.
Spicy Cinnamon Apple Cider
Skip the sniffles this season with a warm mug of apple cider amped up with circulation-boosting cayenne pepper and anti-inflammatory cinnamon. The combination of sweet apples, tangy lemon, earthy turmeric and fiery cayenne is downright addictive – you’ll want to curl up with a batch all winter long.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon apple cider
– 6 cinnamon sticks
– 1 lemon, sliced into rounds
– 1-inch piece fresh turmeric, sliced (or 1⁄2 tsp ground turmeric)
– 3 TBSP honey, or to taste
– 1⁄4 tsp cayenne pepper, or to taste
Directions:
1. Pour apple cider into a pot with cinnamon sticks, lemon slices and turmeric.
2. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat for 15 minutes to infuse flavors.
3. Turn off heat and stir in honey and cayenne pepper.
4. Using a fine mesh sieve, strain cider into mugs.
So this season, skip the sniffles by filling your kitchen with anti-inflammatory, immunity boosting ingredients. Ward off winter illness with spicy sweet potato corn chowder, classic chicken noodle soup powered up with fresh ginger and garlic, or a batch of addictive spicy apple cider. You’ll protect your body from infection while delighting your taste buds.
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