The Witty Stride

–Aparna Chatterjee

The coronavirus situation brought many lost Indian drinks back into the limelight. Kadha is one of them. Brewed with many hot ingredients, this drink not only helps to increase body temperature but also elevates immunity. So, let’s get straight to it!

What do you need?

1. 8-9 leaves (with some twigs) of Indian Basil (Tulsi).
2. 1 Tsp of minced ginger.
3. 1-2 whole cinnamon sticks.
4. 4-5 cloves.
5. Three black pepper corns, crushed or whole.
6. 2-3 cardamom pods.
7. Jaggery (can use honey as well).
8. A teaspoon of lemon juice (if desired).
9. 2 cups of water.

Indian basil:

The herb from every Indian household! 

Ginger:

It spices the dish, warms you, and supports your health. 

Cinnamon:

Cinnamon is rich in antioxidants, including polyphenols, which help protect the body against free radicals that cause oxidative damage. It also has antibacterial properties. Its main active ingredient, cinnamaldehyde, helps alleviate specific respiratory ailments and supports flu prevention.

Clove:

Yet another spice is heating your body! Packed with medicinal properties, cloves relieve a sore throat and reduce pain from persistent coughing. Cloves also contain an essential oil that acts as a natural expectorant, helping to clear the respiratory passages. Moreover, it helps relieve an itchy throat caused by a dry cough.

Black paper corn.

Black paper corn, or kaali Miri, is a natural expectorant that breaks down the mucus deposition in the respiratory tract. Its natural irritant properties help expel loosened materials through sneezing or coughing and support recovery from infection or illness.

Cardamom:

Another key benefit is its natural expectorant properties; cardamom also helps alleviate fever.

Jaggery:

Jaggery is often recommended as an excellent remedy for asthma patients. Its properties help regulate body temperature, which is beneficial for Asthma patients. It also has anti-allergy properties. It is a well-known remedy for curing dry coughs and colds.

How to make it?

1. Set two cups of water to boil.
2. Add all the ingredients and let the spices infuse.
3. The water will turn brownish, resembling tea, and release the aroma of the spices.
4. Ensure the jaggery has dissolved completely.
5. Strain the drink into a small cup or glass, and drink it no more than 4 times daily.
6. Add lemon to enhance the taste.
7. If you don’t have jaggery, honey can be an alternative.

There you go, honey. Take a shot of this drink and see how quickly it alleviates the ailment. It’s a natural energy booster, expectorant, and immunity builder; all the ingredients are probably in your kitchen.