Haldi doodh, herbal teas, soups and more: Must-have drinks to beat winter’s common illnesses

Benefits of turmeric milk: Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties and boosts immunity, while black pepper enhances absorption of curcumin (Image: Canva)

It's that time of year when winter chills arrive. While this season offers a break from heat and humidity, it also brings health challenges. The cold air can bring on common problems like coughs, colds, dry skin, and dandruff. Each breath feels sharper, and your skin may become dry and itchy. Thankfully, natural remedies can help. Sipping warm turmeric milk and ginger tea, along with herbal teas and soups, can boost your immune system and keep you healthy throughout the colder months.

Here are some popular beverage recipes that act as home remedies during winter:

• Turmeric milk or haldi doodh: Warm 1 cup of milk and stir in 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric and a pinch of black pepper. Sweeten with honey if desired. Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties and boosts immunity, while black pepper enhances absorption of curcumin.

• Basil cardamom milk: Boil 1 cup of milk with a few fresh basil leaves and 2 crushed cardamom pods. Simmer for 5 minutes, strain, and sweeten if needed. Basil has antibacterial properties and can help reduce stress, while cardamom aids digestion.

• Tomato basil soup: Saute 1 chopped onion and 2 garlic cloves in olive oil. Add 4 chopped tomatoes and fresh basil, pour in 2 cups of vegetable broth, and simmer for 15 minutes. Blend until smooth and season to taste. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, supporting heart health and immunity.

• Pepper cinnamon tea: Boil 1 cup of water with 1/2 teaspoon black pepper and 1 cinnamon stick. Simmer for 5 minutes, strain, and add honey to taste. Black pepper aids digestion and boosts metabolism, while cinnamon can help regulate blood sugar levels.

• Herbal teas: Boil 1 cup of water and steep 1 teaspoon of dried herb (like chamomile or peppermint) for 5-7 minutes. Strain and enjoy. Chamomile promotes relaxation and sleep, while peppermint can relieve headaches and improve digestion.

• Almond cardamom milk or Badam doodh: To make a soothing almond cardamom milk, start by soaking 5-6 almonds overnight and peeling them. Blend the almonds with a bit of water until smooth. In a saucepan, heat 1 cup of milk (dairy or plant-based) until warm, but not boiling. Stir in the almond paste and 1-2 crushed green cardamom pods for flavour. Sweeten to taste with honey or sugar. Almonds are rich in vitamin E and healthy fats, supporting skin health, while cardamom aids digestion.