Ginger and the winter season have the best equation. On cold morning days, a cup of ginger tea is an absolute pleasure to soothe your throat. Ginger is also known as Adarak in Hindi, is one of the healthiest spices on the earth. The ginger spice comes from the roots of the plant. Ginger is a plant with leafy stems and yellowish-green flowers.

Ginger is a perennial plant scientifically known as Zingiber officiale Roscoe. It belongs to the Zingiberaceae family contains essential oils and resins. It provides a specific odor and spicy flavor. It is a popular home remedy for nausea, stomach pain, and other health issues.

Sources of Ginger:  

Ginger has been used now for more than 2,500 years. This plant originated in Southeast Asia. It is cultivated now throughout the humid tropics, with India being the largest producer. Now it is growing in China, Japan, parts of South American, and Africa.

Health Benefits of Ginger:  

Ginger may have various properties such as anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-viral, and other healthful properties. Below are some benefits of ginger-

Ginger is beneficial to reduce nausea and vomiting. It helps lower nausea through a direct effect on the stomach rather than on the central nervous system. Research suggests that ginger may help reduce nausea and vomiting caused by drugs used to treat HIV infection. It also treats nausea due to vertigo, nausea after surgery, and vomiting from chemotherapy.  

A cup of hot ginger tea is the famous solution that may reduce your cough and cold instantly. The ginger contains compounds gingerol and shogaol may help fight off a cold because they can lower a fever, reduce pain, and suppress a cough.  

Research suggests that ginger has a warm effect that may help reduce cold and cough symptoms. In 2013, the researcher concluded that fresh ginger beneficial for respiratory infections.  

Ginger has antioxidant properties that help reduce the free radicals in the body that may cause obesity. It contains gingerol and shogaol compounds that may contribute in various biological activities in the body. Research suggests that gingerol has anti-obesity properties that help food to digest faster and stimulate the body to speed digested food through the colon.

Ginger may help to reduce menstrual cramps by lowering the contractions of your uterus. According to the studies, taking ginger powder 500-2000 mg during the first 3-4 days of a menstrual cycle decreases pain in women and teens with painful menstrual periods.  

Some studies suggest that consuming ginger during pregnancy may reduce the morning sickness symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. However, taking any herb or medication during pregnancy is a big decision. Before taking ginger, be sure to discuss the possible risks with your doctor.  

In Ayurveda, ginger is a highly recommended hair growth treatment. It contains various minerals and fatty acids that help in hair thickening and encourages hair growth. Ginger also has natural antiseptic properties that help to prevent dandruff formation.  

Ginger contains anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce joint pains like hip and knee joint pain.  

The Delta Plus variant is a mutant version of B.1.617.2 strain, which was called Delta by the World Health Organization. Experts say the Delta strain drove the second wave of COVID-19, infecting millions and leading to the deaths of thousands.

What the government says on Delta Plus

According to an official statement, the Delta Plus Variant has shown

How dangerous is the new Delta Plus variant?

There is very little evidence of how virulent the new strain is.

Experts in Maharashtra, one of the worst-hit states during the first and second waves, say that owing to the new variant, the third wave may come earlier than predicted. The state, which has reported most of the cases of the new variant, is already preparing for a third wave.

The Delta Plus is active in US, UK, Portugal, Switzerland, Japan, Poland, Russia, China, and India.

Maharashtra is currently collecting data, including travel history and vaccination status, of those who have reported this version of the virus.

Are vaccines not effective against this variant?

It's too early to say. The government says Covishield and Covaxin are effective against the Delta variant but data on how effective they are against the Delta Plus will be shared later.

 

What is stress?

Stress is the body’s response to a challenge or demand. Everyone experiences stress, which can be triggered by a range of events, from small daily hassles to major changes like a divorce or job loss. The stress response includes physical components such an elevated heart rate and blood pressure, thoughts and personal beliefs about the stressful event, and emotions, including fear and anger. Although we often think of it as being negative, stress can also come from positive changes in your life, like getting a promotion at work or having a new baby.

How can we handle stress in healthy ways?

Stress serves an important purpose—it enables us to respond quickly to threats and avoid danger. However, lengthy exposure to stress may lead to mental health difficulties (for example, anxiety and depression) or increased physical health problems. A large body of research suggests that increased stress levels interfere with your ability to deal with physical illness. While no one can avoid all stress, you can work to handle it in healthy ways that increase your potential to recover.

  1. Eat and drink to optimize your health.  Some people try to reduce stress by drinking alcohol or eating too much. These actions may seem to help in the moment, but actually may add to stress in the long run. Caffeine also can compound the effects of stress. Consuming a healthy, balanced diet can help to combat stress.
  2. Exercise regularly.  In addition to having physical health benefits, exercise has been shown to be a powerful stress reliever. Consider non-competitive aerobic exercise, strengthening with weights, or movement activities like yoga or Tai Chi, and set reasonable goals for yourself.  Aerobic exercise  has been shown to release endorphins—natural substances that help you feel better and maintain a positive attitude.
  3. Stop using tobacco and nicotine products.  People who use nicotine often refer to it as a stress reliever. However, nicotine actually places more stress on the body by increasing physical arousal and reducing blood flow and breathing.
  4. Study and practice relaxation techniques.  Taking the time to relax every day helps to manage stress and to protect the body from the effects of stress. You can choose from a variety of techniques, such as deep breathing, imagery, progressive muscle relaxation, and mindfulness meditation. There are many online and smart phone apps that provide guidance on these techniques; although some entail purchase costs, many are available free of charge.
  5. Reduce triggers of stress.  If you are like most people, your life may be filled with too many demands and too little time. For the most part, these demands are ones we have chosen. You can free up time by practicing time-management skills like asking for help when it’s appropriate, setting priorities, pacing yourself, and reserving time to take care of yourself.
  6. Examine your values and live by them.  The more your actions reflect your beliefs, the better you will feel, no matter how busy your life is. Use your values when choosing your activities.
  7. Assert yourself.  It’s okay to say “No” to demands on your time and energy that will place too much stress on you. You don’t have always have to meet the expectations of others.
  8. Set realistic goals and expectations.  It's okay—and healthy—to realize you cannot be 100% successful at everything all at once. Be mindful of the things you can control and work on accepting the things that you can’t control.
  9. Sell yourself to yourself.  When you’re feeling overwhelmed, remind yourself of what you do well. Have a healthy sense of self-esteem.

There are several other methods you can use to relax or reduce stress, including:

 

Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that affects humans and animals. It is caused by bacteria of the genus  Leptospira. In humans, it can cause a wide range of symptoms, some of which may be mistaken for other diseases. Some infected persons, however, may have no symptoms at all.

Without treatment, Leptospirosis can lead to kidney damage, meningitis (inflammation of the membrane around the brain and spinal cord), liver failure, respiratory distress, and even death.

Infection

The bacteria that cause leptospirosis are spread through the urine of infected animals, which can get into water or soil and can survive there for weeks to months. Many different kinds of wild and domestic animals carry the bacterium.

These can include, but are not limited to:

When these animals are infected, they may have no symptoms of the disease.

Infected animals may continue to excrete the bacteria into the environment continuously or every once in a while for a few months up to several years.

Humans can become infected through:

The bacteria can enter the body through skin or mucous membranes (eyes, nose, or mouth), especially if the skin is broken from a cut or scratch. Drinking contaminated water can also cause infection. Outbreaks of leptospirosis are usually caused by exposure to contaminated water, such as floodwaters. Person to person transmission is rare.

Signs and Symptoms

In humans, Leptospirosis can cause a wide range of symptoms, including:

Many of these symptoms can be mistaken for other diseases. In addition, some infected persons may have no symptoms at all.

The time between a person’s exposure to a contaminated source and becoming sick is 2 days to 4 weeks. Illness usually begins abruptly with fever and other symptoms. Leptospirosis may occur in two phases:

The illness lasts from a few days to 3 weeks or longer. Without treatment, recovery may take several months.

Risk of Exposure

Leptospirosis occurs worldwide, but is most common in temperate or tropical climates. It is an occupational hazard for many people who work outdoors or with animals, such as:

The disease has also been associated with swimming, wading, kayaking, and rafting in contaminated lakes and rivers. As such, it is a recreational hazard for campers or those who participate in outdoor sports. The risk is likely greater for those who participate in these activities in tropical or temperate climates.

In addition, incidence of Leptospirosis infection among urban children appears to be increasing.

Treatment

Leptospirosis is treated with antibiotics, such as doxycycline or penicillin, which should be given early in the course of the disease.

Intravenous antibiotics may be required for persons with more severe symptoms. Persons with symptoms suggestive of leptospirosis should contact a health care provider.

Prevention

The risk of acquiring leptospirosis can be greatly reduced by not swimming or wading in water that might be contaminated with animal urine, or eliminating contact with potentially infected animals.

Protective clothing or footwear should be worn by those exposed to contaminated water or soil because of their job or recreational activities.

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What is Dengue?

Dengue is a self-limiting acute mosquito transmitted disease characterized by fever, headache, muscle, joint pains, rash, nausea and vomiting. Dengue Fever (DF) is caused by an arbovirus and spread by Aedes mosquitoes. Some infections result in Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever (DHF) and in its severe form Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS) can threaten the patientís life primarily through increased vascular permeability and shock. Over the past two decades, there has been global increase in the frequency of DF, DHF and its epidemics, with a concomitant increase in disease incidence. Various factors responsible for the resurgence of dengue epidemic are:

(i) Un-precedented human population growth

(ii) Un-planned and un-controlled urbanization

(iii) Inadequate waste management

(iv) Water supply mismanagement

(v) Increased distribution and densities of vector mosquitoes

(vi) Lack of effective mosquito control has increased movement & spread of dengue viruses and development of hyper endemicity and

(vii) Deterioration in public health infrastructure

About the Aedes mosquito

The aedes aegypti mosquito is considered the primary vector of Dengue. It lives in urban habitats and breeds mostly in man-made containers. Ae. aegypti is a day-time feeder; its peak biting periods are early in the morning and in the evening before sunset.   Female Ae. aegypti frequently feed multiple times between each egg-laying period. Once a female has laid her eggs, these eggs can remain viable for several months, and will hatch when they in contact with water.

It has to be noted that the mosquito can also bite at night time at places which are well lit (example indoor and therefore precaution needs to be taken according.

Signs and Symptoms

Dengue should be suspected when a high fever (104 °F) is accompanied by 2 of the following symptoms during the fever phase:

A patient enters what is called the critical phase normally about 3-7 days after illness onset. It is at this time, when the fever is dropping (below 100 °F) in the patient, that warning signs associated with severe dengue can manifest. Severe dengue is a potentially fatal complication, due to plasma leaking, fluid accumulation, respiratory distress, severe bleeding, or organ impairment.

Warning signs that doctors should look for include:

If patients manifest these symptoms during the critical phase, close observation for the next 24–48 hours is essential so that proper medical care can be provided, to avoid complications and risk of death.

Treatment

There is no specific treatment for dengue fever. Fever reducers (anti-pyretic) can be taken to control the symptoms of muscle aches and pains, and fever. The best options to treat these symptoms is Paracetamol.

NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), such as ibuprofen and aspirin should be STRICTLY AVOIDED. These anti-inflammatory drugs act by thinning the blood, and in a disease with risk of hemorrhage, blood thinners may exacerbate the prognosis.

For Severe Dengue, medical care by physicians and nurses experienced with the effects and progression of the disease can save lives. Maintenance of the patient's body fluid volume is critical to severe dengue care. Patients with Dengue should seek medical advice upon the appearance of warning signs.

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Are you looking for health benefits of kesar? If yes, then you have come to the right place. But, first let's learn some important facts about this wonder spice. Saffron is a small, bulbous, perennial spice, a member of the lily family. To produce saffron, the stigmas [the part of the flower, which catches pollen] must be painstakingly handpicked, cut from the white style and then carefully laid on a sieve and cured over heat to deepen the flavor- a process so labor intensive that saffron is the most expensive spice in the world. Currently saffron is commercially produced in Iran, Greece, Morocco, Spain, Kashmir and Italy. Iran is the most important producer of saffron both, in terms of volume and quality, and Spain being the largest importer of the spice. Saffron is a labour intensive crop, which makes it so expensive. It has three delicate crimson stigmas in the centre,  which are hand-picked, placed on a riddle, and cured over heat to amplify its flavour. Apart from being the most expensive spice, there are many benefits of saffron, which makes it even more special.

Here Are 7 Health Benefits Of Saffron (Kesar):

The benefits and medicinal properties of this highly priced spice, make it a valuable culinary ingredient worldwide. Modern research suggests that saffron can be used as an aphrodisiac, diaphoretic [to cause sweating], carminative [to prevent gas] and to bring on mensuration. Some other benefits are mentioned here under:

1. Protects against cancer:  Saffron contains a dark orange, water soluble carotene called crocin, which is responsible for much of saffron's golden color. Crocin has been found to trigger apoptosis [ programmed cell death] in a number of different types of human  cancer  cells, leukemia, ovarian carcinoma, colon adenocarcinoma, and soft tissue sarcoma. Researchers in Mexico who have been studying saffron extract have discovered that saffron and its active components display an ability to inhibit human malignant cells. Not only does the spice inhibit cells that have become cancerous, but it has no such effect on normal cells and actually stimulates their formation and that of lymphocytes [immune cells that help destroy cancer cells].

2. Promotes learning and memory retention:  Recent studies have also demonstrated that saffron extract, specifically its crocin, is useful in the treatment of age related mental impairment. In Japan, saffron is encapsulated and used in the treatment of Alzheimer's Disease, memory loss and inflammation.

3. In delayed puberty:  In under developed girls, saffron has an overall stimulant effect. A pinch of saffron crushed in a table spoon of milk is useful to stimulate hormones and bring about desired effect.

4. To increase vitality:  In low libido saffron aids as a sexual stimulant and can be consumed in a dose of a pinch in a glass of milk at bed time

5. In patchy baldness:  Saffron mixed in liquorice and milk makes an effective topical application to induce hair growth  in alopecia.

6. Protection against cold: Saffron is a stimulant tonic and very effective to treat cold and fever; saffron mixed in milk and applied over the forehead quickly relieves cold.


7. Food Additives:  Saffron is an excellent replacement for synthetic food additives- for eg: instead of FD and C yellow no 5: a synthetic food coloring agent that is a very common allergy trigger, Saffron’s glorious yellow could be an acceptable hypoallergenic choice.With these kesar benefits known to us, this culinary treasure has to be used and especially in the winter months.

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Cinnamon  is a favourite household spice, and has been used around the world for centuries. Once traded as currency, this spice has a pleasant flavour and warm smell that has made it popular in cooking, particularly in baking and curries.

The spice comes from the inner bark of a small evergreen tree. The bark is peeled and laid in the sun to dry, where it curls up into rolls known as cinnamon sticks. Cinnamon is also available in powdered form.

Here are 6 health benefits of cinnamon:-

1. It has anti-viral, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties

Cinnamon is thought to have many  medicinal and soothing property, and is used frequently in Ayurvedic and herbal medicine. The distinctive smell and flavor of cinnamon comes from the essential oils contained in the bark,  called Cinnamaldehyde. Cinnamaldehyde displays anti-viral, anti-bacterial and  anti-fungal  properties.

2. Contains antioxidants with anti-inflammatory effects

Cinnamon also contains large amounts of polyphenol antioxidants. Antioxidants can help protect the body from disease and are found in fruits, vegetables, herbs and spices. The antioxidants in cinnamon have been found to have anti-inflammatory effects.

3. Its prebiotic properties may improve gut health

Some spices, including cinnamon, have prebiotic properties  that promote the growth of beneficial bacteria and help suppress the growth of pathogenic bacteria. Therefore, including spices regularly in your diet may help improve gut health.

Cinnamon is also a useful source of  manganese and contains small amounts of calcium and fibre.

4. Reduces blood pressure

There is  some evidence  to suggest that the consumption of cinnamon  is associated with a short-term reduction in blood pressure. Although the evidence is hopeful, it would be premature to recommend cinnamon for blood pressure control until a comprehensive  randomized controlled trial  (RCT) involving a larger number of patients has been carried out.

5. Lowers blood sugar and risk of Type 2  Diabetes

It has been suggested that cinnamon can have a moderate effect in improving glycemic  and supporting the management of type 2 diabetes. However, conclusions are mixed, and  larger  randomized controlled trials  are needed in well-defined population groups using standardized interventions in order to definitively determine the efficacy of using cinnamon in subjects with diabetes. However, a small amount used at breakfast or in baking will not do any harm, and can be eaten as part of a balanced diet.

6. Relieves digestive discomfort

Cinnamon extract has been used to alleviate gastrointestinal problems in both Eastern and Western medicine for years. It has been described as a carminative, renowned for its digestive, anti-microbial  and anti-inflammatory properties. In traditional Ayurvedic medicine, cinnamon bark oil is used for treating flatulence and digestive imbalance. It is believed that the warmth of cinnamon increases blood flow and improves blood oxygen levels to help fight off illness. To alleviate digestive symptoms, cinnamon is taken as part of a hot drink (much like a tea). In this instance, it’s easier to use ground cinnamon rather than trying to grate cinnamon sticks yourself.

Cloves are the flower buds of the clove tree, an evergreen also known as  Syzygium aromaticum  

Found in both whole and ground forms, this versatile spice can be used to season pot roasts, add flavor to hot beverages, and bring spicy warmth to cookies and cakes.

You may know cloves as one of the main ingredients in gingerbread baked goods or a staple spice in Indian cuisine.

Cloves are best known as a sweet and aromatic spice, but they have also been used in traditional medicine.

In fact, animal studies have found that the compounds in cloves may have several health benefits, including supporting liver health and helping stabilize blood sugar levels

This article reviews 8 of the most impressive health benefits of eating cloves.

1. Contain important nutrients

Cloves contain fiber, vitamins, and minerals, so using whole or ground cloves to add flavor to your food can provide some important nutrients.

One teaspoon (2 grams) of ground cloves contains:

 Manganese is an essential mineral for maintaining brain function and building strong bones.

Apart from being a rich source of manganese, cloves are only used in small amounts and do not provide significant amounts of nutrients.

2. High in antioxidants

In addition to containing several important vitamins and minerals, cloves are rich in antioxidants.

Antioxidants are compounds that reduce oxidative stress, which can contribute to the development of chronic disease.

Cloves also contain a compound called eugenol, which has been shown to act as a natural antioxidant.

In fact, a test-tube study found that eugenol stopped oxidative damage caused by free radicals five times more effectively than vitamin E, another potent antioxidant.

Including cloves in your diet along with other anti-oxidant rich food  can help improve your overall health.

3. Can kill bacteria

Cloves have been shown to have antimicrobial properties, meaning they can help stop the growth of microorganisms like bacteria.

One test-tube study showed that clove essential oil killed three common types of bacteria, including  E. coli, which is a strain of bacteria that can cause food poisoning.

What’s more, the antibacterial properties of cloves could even help promote oral health.

In one test-tube study, the compounds extracted from cloves were found to stop the growth of two types of bacteria that contribute to gum disease.

Another study in 40 people tested the effects of an herbal mouthwash consisting of tree tea oil, cloves, and basil.

After using the herbal mouthwash for 21 days, they showed improvements in gum health, as well as the amount of plaque and bacteria in the mouth.

In combination with regular brushing and proper oral hygiene, the antibacterial effects of cloves may benefit your oral health

4. May help regulate blood sugar

Research shows that the compounds found in cloves may help keep blood sugar under control

An animal study found that clove extract helped moderate blood sugar increases in mice with diabetes.

Another test-tube and animal study looked at the effects of clove extract and nigericin, a compound found in cloves, both on human muscle cells and in mice with diabetes.

Cloves and nigericin were found to increase the uptake of sugar from the blood into cells, increase the secretion of insulin, and improve the function of cells that produce insulin.

Insulin is a hormone responsible for transporting sugar from your blood into your cells. The proper functioning of insulin is essential for maintaining steady blood sugar levels.

In combination with a balanced diet, cloves could help keep your blood sugar levels in check

Black pepper, also known as the king of spices that has a load of health benefits and a major benefit of consuming pepper is that it aids in weight loss. It is also said to be good for digestion and prevents cancer by detoxifying the body. When this spice is added to the food, it makes your food taste better and spicier.

If you are a fitness enthusiast looking to lose weight quickly, then you need to add black pepper to your daily menu. Don’t forget to add lemon juice and finger millet (Ragi) too. All of these foods can help you lose weight quickly and black pepper cleans your intestines and stomach. Let’s take a look at some of the important facts about black pepper.

Facts About Black Pepper:

Ever wondered why is black pepper is called the ‘King of Spice’? Well, this is because this spice has loads of benefits for your body. Here are some of the facts about this amazing spice.

Note:  Adding a pinch of black pepper to your daily diet can keep you healthy and using this as a weight-loss supplement is the best way for you to lose weight.

10 Healthy Benefits of Black Pepper:

There are plenty of benefits surrounding this spice and there is a reason why our ancestors had named it the ‘King of Spice’. Well, here are 10 healthy benefits of black pepper and how it can act as a disinfectant that can prevent many diseases.

1. Prevents Any Sort of Cancer:

Black pepper is said to prevent cancer when it is mixed with turmeric. This can be consumed in the form of milk by mixing turmeric and black pepper. This drink is usually given to individuals suffering from severe cold. It is said to consist of antioxidants,  vitamin A  and carotenoids that help in curing cancer and other deadly diseases. Also, this must be added to most of your daily diet as it is the best way you can stay fit naturally.

2. Good for Digestion:

Black pepper helps in good digestion and when it is consumed raw, hydrochloric acid is released by the stomach and helps in breaking down the proteins. Hydrochloric acid helps in cleaning your intestines and barricading you from other gastrointestinal diseases. So don’t forget to add a pinch of black pepper to all of your food.

3. Prevents Constipation:

If you have less than three stools a week, then you may be suffering from constipation. However, this problem can be solved by adding some pepper to your food daily. Sometimes when you may be suffering from constipation, you may end up straining to pass stools or sometimes you may not feel empty even after passing stools.

Thus, black pepper curbs  colon cancer, constipation, diarrhoea and other types of bacterial types of diseases if consumed daily. Excessive consumption can be harmful to you, so make sure you just add a pinch of it to your daily food.

4. Treats Skin Problems:

The ‘King of Spices’ is said to prevent skin pigmentation (Vitiligo). This condition makes your skin appear white and this is also called white patches. Though there are many medicines available in the market to restore your skin colour, black pepper protects your skin from any sort of skin pigmentation and helps maintain the original colour of your skin. Wrinkles and skin problems are curbed if you consume black pepper from a very young age. It also prevents premature ageing and dark spots too.

Consuming this spice in the raw or cooked form is good enough for your daily diet that will benefit your body and most importantly rejuvenate your skin. If you are suffering from  acne, then you need to try black pepper as this will help your skin flush away the intoxicants in it and smoothen it. All you need to do is to crush some black pepper and apply it over your skin and you will find the difference.

5. Good for Your Hair:

In order to treat dandruff, black pepper is said to be good. All you need to do is to add some crushed black pepper with some curd and add it to your scalp and let it dry for a minimum of 30 minutes. Also, make sure that you do not use excess black pepper as this can result in the burning of your scalp. Make sure that you do not use shampoo for the next 24 hours after applying black pepper to your hair as this may cause side effects. You can also add lime to the crushed black pepper and apply it to your scalp and then wash it after 30 minutes. This will make your hair shiny and smooth.

6. Aids in Weight Loss:

The wonder spice helps you lose weight and this can be added to green tea and consumed two to three times a day. This is because this spice has a rich content of phytonutrients that helps in breaking down excess fat. This also improves your bodies metabolism. Green tea plus a pinch of black pepper in it can help you lose weight. This needs to be added to your everyday diet.

7. Treats Depression:

Depression  is said to be one of the most common problems faced by most people worldwide and this can even lead a person to death. However, there are medicines that can curb this mental problem from being devastating, however, raw black pepper can be given to depressed people to chew and this will change the mood of the person.

This happens due to the fact that chewing raw black pepper releases mood-inducing chemicals to the brain that will keep your mind calm and soothing all the time. However, this must not be done in excess as there will be consequences for the same.

8. Helps in Treating Respiratory Diseases:

Cold and cough are said to be normal respiratory problems that can be cured by consuming black pepper. Simply just add a pinch of black pepper to some green tea and you’ll see the difference. Also, you can use a glass of milk and add a pinch of black pepper and a pinch of turmeric to it and consume it hot. This has no side effects.

During winter, adding a little bit of pepper to all your dishes can help you stay healthy and prevent yourself from different diseases. Black pepper mixed with some honey can also help you prevent chest congestion. Adding black pepper to some warm water along with some eucalyptus oil in it and inhaling the steam is a simple remedy for getting rid of chest congestion.

9. Reduces Joint Pain:

If you are suffering from joint pain arthritis, you don’t have to be worried because pepper has medical properties that can help you solve this problem. It also helps in preventing gout. It is also used for people suffering from spinal and joint pain. Today, black pepper is used in many cuisines as a global spice. Black pepper’s most powerful impact is when a person with a cold and cough consumes it.

10. Detoxifies Your Body:

This spice helps you sweat and urinate a lot and by this, you discharge all toxins from your body. Sweating and constantly urinating is a good sign that your body is functioning well. Also, you need to think about how you need to burn fat physically, rather than only consuming black pepper. Some people believe that black pepper can be only consumed and it will help them lose weight. But you may be wrong if you only concentrate on consuming it rather than following some simple exercises such as walking and jogging. Always keep in mind that if you want to lose weight, the result lies in following a healthy diet and exercising at the same time. If you follow this, you will witness the results in a few mocking.

Currently, this spice has been added to almost all dishes because it brings in a sharp and spicy flavour to your dish. It is originally found in India and this spice was first valued when it was traded from Asia to Europe.

Over the years, turmeric has become a popular ingredient for all those people who believe in healthy living. Though the western world came to realise the benefits of this wonder spice comparatively late, Indian kitchens have depended on turmeric or Haldi for centuries. It goes in almost every curry and savoury dish that is cooked in our kitchens as it helps in the process of cooking and also adds nutritional value to it.

Haldi is also consumed uncooked with milk and warm water or tea, to help combat flu or cold. It helps enhance the immunity and eliminate cold, cough and chest congestion if any. While the powdered form has its benefits, the raw roots of turmeric are quite helpful too. According to research, Curcumin, a compound found in turmeric is known to have anti-inflammatory properties that help boost immunity.  Turmeric, which is antiviral, anti-fungal and anti-bacterial, is also prebiotic that promotes the growth of healthy bacteria in our gut.

“Turmeric is a powerful herb with over 300 nutrients including beta-carotene, ascorbic acid (vitamin C), calcium, flavonoids, fibre, iron, niacin, potassium, zinc among others. But the active compound which has caught the attention of scientists, supplement industries and food technologists is curcumin for its anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. Absorption of curcumin from turmeric is enhanced by 2000 times by peppering, a compound present in black pepper. Somehow our ancestors seem to have cracked this knowledge as all our recipes have both turmeric and black pepper in combination.

While it’s easily available in the market there are two ways to start your day with raw turmeric.

* Add raw turmeric and boil it with one teaspoon of ghee and have it every morning. It helps improve immunity and cure dry cough.

* One can also grind raw turmeric and one teaspoon ghee and make a cold morning drink before you start your day.

Turmeric in its raw form is packed with several health benefits including immune-modulatory effects. Studies conducted on curcumin and other bioactive components in turmeric reported having beneficial effects in various disease conditions, by modulating the immune system. Raw turmeric is one of the main ingredients in several home remedies used for various health issues. Turmeric milk is an example in which grated raw turmeric is boiled with milk, and served hot. It is considered as a magic elixir to ward off the common cold and seasonal flu. Especially in children, it is associated with a reduction in Recurrent Respiratory Tract Infections. Raw turmeric concoctions/ tea taken daily over a while may help to improve immunity”.

Here are some of the benefits of having raw turmeric

* It helps facilitate smoother digestion through the tracts.

* Consumption of raw turmeric may also help treat stomach ulcers and irritation.

* It also helps in reducing inflammation in the body.

* All of these factors also lead to a reduction of skin impurities. Traditionally, it is also used in treating skin ailments.

* Kacchi Haldi, as it is also known, is also applied as an ointment to any kind of cuts or injuries.

* It purifies the blood, eliminating toxins from it.

* Raw turmeric has been known to regulate blood sugar levels too.

* Inflammation is an important part of the immune system to fight infections and is a short term process. When the inflammation becomes chronic it leads to various health problems including cancers. Turmeric has shown anti-inflammatory properties that could prevent chronic inflammation and therefore such diseases.