How to fight the virus: effective spices to strengthen the immune system

In spring, our body needs support from the immune system more than ever. If you do not want to resort to various vitamins, chemical additives, it's time to look at the kitchen shelves. You probably have a bag of cinnamon or dried rosemary. Let's talk about effective spices to boost immunity and fight viruses.

What are the benefits of spices in the diet?

• Enhances the flavor of food;
• provide long-lasting satiety;
• can replace salt;
• speed up metabolism.

Nutmeg

Nutmeg is rich in vitamins A, B, C, folic acid, magnesium, potassium and zinc. That is why it is an excellent tool for reducing inflammatory processes in the body and increasing protective functions. And the high concentration of magnesium in nutmeg can have a positive effect on your sleep. Among the very unexpected features of the spice - it helps to cope with plaque on the teeth, as well as protect against caries.

Nutmeg is also universal in cooking: it is good both in desserts and drinks, and in hot dishes.

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Turmeric

This spice is considered natural antibiotic based on curcumin. It is thanks to this component that turmeric strengthens the immune system, improves cognitive functions and even helps to lose weight. No wonder this spice is so loved by zoizniks: on its basis, they prepare a vegan caffeine-free latte or golden milk, add to smoothies and homemade face masks.

In addition, turmeric can be added to rice and potato dishes, to vegetables and in sauces.

Cardamom

Since ancient times, cardamom has been used in the treatment of various infections and colds ... Cardamom seeds contain a large amount of essential oils - limonene, terpineol, cineole, armidone. These components are endowed with antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory activity. Therefore, this seasoning not only strengthens the immune system, but also has an analgesic effect.

In Russia, cardamom has become popular relatively recently, but in India this culinary component has been appreciated since ancient times. In some Asian countries, adding cardamom to dishes is considered a rule of good culinary taste.

Cardamom goes well with salad, vegetable and fruit mixes, and can also be added to baked goods and various types of soups.

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Sage

Sage is one of the best antimicrobials ... This herb contains the natural bactericidal element salvin. It is due to its content that sage is able to suppress the growth of harmful bacterial flora. Also, this spice helps to remove excessyuyu fluid from the body and normalize kidney function.

Sage can be added to various dishes: omelets, fried vegetables, chicken and fish when baked.

Ginger

All the beneficial elements are contained in fresh ginger and its juice, which can be added to salad as a dressing or to drinks. In this form, ginger perfectly strengthens the immune system, accelerates metabolism and nourishes the body with vitamins A, C, B1, B2, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, calcium, zinc and potassium. Also, eating ginger root can help relieve pain and improve digestion.

Ginger can be added to legumes, fish, fried foods, and of course tea.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon has strong anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, it used to prevent and treat the flu and colds. It also lowers cholesterol, triglycerides (fats) and blood sugar levels. The combination of ground cinnamon and honey is best for sore throat, nasal congestion and coughs.

You can experiment and add cinnamon to hot vegetable dishes. For example, broccoli or baked potatoes. This spice is also an excellent substitute for sugar: its aroma will make your receptors taste a little sweetish. Cinnamon is also great for breakfast dishes: Greek yogurt, cereals, puddings. This spice also lifts the mood and affects the release of hormones of happiness.

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Rosemary

Rosemary is loaded with a lot of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. And thanks to its antiseptic and tonic properties, it helps with headaches and muscle pains, colds, and relieves asthma symptoms. Previously, in the wards where sick people lay, doctors burned rosemary sprigs to sanitize the air.

This seasoning is perfect for salad mixes, for starters and fish, as well as cheese plates. Rosemary is also added to tea, non-alcoholic mulled wine and various herbal teas.

Thyme

Thyme or thyme is famous for its antiseptic properties. It enhances the body's immunological defense, tones up and provides a mild antispasmodic effect. On the basis of this herb, remedies are made that treat cough and smooth out various inflammatory processes.

Remember how in childhood you were brewed tea with thyme for colds and prevention of viral diseases. In addition to drinks, thyme can be added to meat, poultry, potato and tomato salads, broths and soups.

Cloves

Dried clove buds are rich in vitamins and bioactive substances. Cloves can help boost immunity and fight off disease-causing bacteria. This spice is also used as a preventive measure against influenza. Clove also has an analgesic and antispasmodic effect, removes toxins from the body.

This seasoning can be called universal, because it is added to the first and second, and to dessert dishes. As well as drinks, snacks and marinades.

Star anise

Star anise or star anise is a popular spice that came to us from China. Its root is used in medicine for the treatment of viral diseases, bronchitis and tonsillitis. In addition, anise has a positive effect on human immunity, as well as on the endocrine and nervous systems.

Star anise is often added to confectionery, it goes well with chocolate and citrus fruits. Anise is no less popular when added to vegetable stews, meat and poultry when baking, and when preparing marinades. Often this seasoning is added to alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.