7 Medicinal Herbs for Winter Wellness

Winter is a charming season when people enjoy the sunrays more than ever. Going out and eating spicy food is fun in this season and often that leads to diseases like an upset stomach, fever, cough, etc. Also, some people suffer from sinusitis and cold allergy and for them, winter is no less than a threat. Kids, aged people, and those with breathing problems like asthma suffer a lot during this time of year.

But nature is a storehouse of remedies. Many medicinal herbs can help people to stay fit and fine in extreme winter weather. India is the land where Ayurveda has originated and till today in every household there is someone who educates the rest about the strength of herbal medicine. It is always a safe option to consume herbs for winter wellness as they don’t come with side-effects. But yes, one must keep a regular practice of consumption of these herbs for long-term results.

Check out 7 medicinal herbs for winter wellness:

Ginger (Adrak):

No morning generally starts without a steaming cup of ginger-tea. The consumption of ginger tea increase in the winter season because of the amazing medicinal properties it carries. The ginger roots contain gingerols- it is a kind of compound in the rhizome that works wonderfully as a medicine for sore throat and also in relieving arthritis or any joint pain. Therefore, the consumption of ginger tea or simply dipping ginger slices in honey would be preferred.

Garlic (Lehsun):

Garlic can be grown easily in the kitchen window. It is a great booster of immunity and also carries antiseptic and anti-fungal properties. So, it prevents viral infections that occur in the winter season. Garlic is one of the best medicines to fight against cold, flu, and other respiratory problem. Having one raw garlic before breakfast is suggested all through the winter.

Basil (Tulsi):

Basil is one of the oldest known herbs in India. Till today, there is a tradition of worshipping this herb and that is done because of the innate medicinal properties it carries. Having basil tea at least once a day during winter is suggested. The digestion improves, fat build-up on the liver is prevented, and the common cold to fever is treated. Those who suffer from clogged nose due to cold weather can try inhaling water vapour from basil water.

Liquorice (Mulethi):

For centuries mulethi or liquorice has been in use. It is a wonder herb that treats asthma and respiratory tract diseases, improves digestion, and boosts immunity to help the body fight against winter diseases. This herb has anti-inflammatory properties and also cures skin problems. The root of this plant is available in powder form that can be consumed with honey and ghee and that will provide great health in the winter season.

Mint (Pudina):

Mint is a common herb found in almost all Indian households. A handful of mint leaves are plucked and chopped for garnishing various food types. The leaves are used to make sauce or chutney to be served with fritters. The leaves are also used to make tea. The presence of vitamin A and antioxidants make mint a fabulous herb for treating cold and related ailments. They also prevent indigestion and irritable bowel system. Mint consumption also heals asthma, cures headache, and reduces stress.

Indian Gooseberry (Amla):

Indian gooseberry is commonly known as Amla. Many people love to eat Amla while enjoying the winter sunshine. Many households have a practice of drying amla under the sun to make a powder and use it later. Amla is again one of the great herbal medicine that keeps people in good health all through the winter season. Amla has vitamin C that makes the blood vessels stronger and improves immunity. Many people complain of dry and dull skin during the winter season but with daily consumption of amla that can be rectified. Amla also corrects inflammation and provides healthier hair. One can take a spoon of amla with honey or jaggery and stay fit.

Indian Ginseng (Ashwagandha):

The scientific name is Withania somnifera and the common name is Ashwagandha. It is one of the best traditional medicinal herbs. The ashwagandha powder is available in many herbal medical stores that can be mixed with honey and warm milk and taken before bedtime. This herb provides a great sleep and it is also a great pain-relieving agent. Those who suffer from joint pains can continue this herbal medicine all through the winter season. It also helps in the reduction of inflammation, supports a good respiratory function, boosts immunity, and stimulates thyroid function.