“Immunity boosting” as a topic skyrocketed with the coronavirus pandemic, appearing alongside numerous speculative cures, treatments, and preventative strategies. The pandemic did serve as a catalyst and put the spotlight on our physical and mental health and well being.
There is no magic pill that improves our immune function in a day or two. “It’s more about the big picture,” says Dr. Michael Ford, a primary care internist at NewYork-Presbyterian Medical Group Hudson Valley and an assistant professor of medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine. “Our genetics make up about half of how well our immune systems function, but the other half is greatly influenced by our everyday habits. So there’s plenty of room for improvement.”
The older we get, the more conscious we are about the decisions we take in our lives, from the food we choose to consume and places we choose to go to, as all of these have an effect on our well-being. A major part of our immunity strengthens when we are children.
However, a lot of us have been incorporating Ayurveda in our ways of life. Sanskrit for “knowledge of life,” Ayurveda, a traditional system of medicine, originated in India more than 3000 years ago. It reminds us that the entire web of life is intricately connected. With a unique emphasis on total wellness, the art and science of Ayurveda work to harmonize our internal and external realms.
The five great elements of air, fire, water, ether, and earth flow around and within us. Ayurveda groups these five elements into three cardinal types of energy and functional principles that are present in everybody and everything, known as Vata, Pitta, and Kapha.
In simple words, Ayurveda talks about living consciously and using natural ingredients. Some common ayurvedic elements that have some surprising health benefits:
- Turmeric: The spice that gives curry its characteristic yellow color, is another popular Ayurvedic remedy
- Neem: These leaves pack a powerful medicinal punch when applied to the skin. Known for its antifungal, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, neem is also used as a treatment for acne and eczema.
- Sandalwood: Known for its rich scent, sandalwood essential oil is also a much beloved Ayurvedic skincare ingredient. Its moisturizing properties give it incredible skin luminosity boosting powers.
- Lassi: This is a traditional drink made from yogurt, water and spices. While it is sweet and refreshing, the tradition of drinking it at the end of the meal is due to its digestive benefits.
Over the years it has become synonymous with a mixture of tea leaves, spices, milk and sweetener that we now know as “chai”. Karma Kettle teas have ayurvedic blends that include ginger, turmeric, ashwagandha and moringa that are packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that are known to bring down stress levels, rejuvenate and detoxify your body.
However, consuming these ingredients in optimal amounts is essential. Excess consumption of kadha or any herbal concoctions can lead to many side-effects such as excessive bleeding, digestive issues and acidity
Here are some of our teas that come with the ayurvedic promise:
- Chakra Tea: Green tea with Galangal and Turmeric that comes with anti-inflammatory properties.
- Ashwagandha Tea: Organic ashwagandha tea is known to boost brain function, lower blood sugar and cortisol level
- Moringa Tea: Organic Moringa tea that calms the mind and improves concentration.
- Ayurvedic Chai: Organic chai with ashwagandha, brahmi and turmeric. Helps manage stress
Disclaimer: Please consult your doctor to learn about which teas are suitable for your daily consumption as per your medical history.