Herbal drinks keep illness at bay

SMART CHOICE

Unsteady weather with rains alternating with chilly weather can be discomfort for some and cause health problems for others.

Krajiab or roselle

The fact is that when the weather turns cold, our immune system tends to become weaker, making us vulnerable to illnesses, like colds and flu, said Supaporn Pitiporn, leading pharmacist at Chao Phraya Abhaibhubejhr Hospital.

For this reason, she said, it is necessary that we keep warm when the temperature drops.

“We should adhere to the golden rule: prevention is better than cure. We better take precaution as when we are sick, the cells will be destroyed and it takes time to recuperate,” she said.

According to the pharmacist, herbal drinks, with several herbs mixed together, can be helpful.

“Basically, we should look at herbs with hot elements like ginger, garlic, onion, holy basil, pepper and long pepper that can make us warm,” she said.

Most of the herbs in this group are familiar kitchen materials that can be found in any household in Thailand, she noted.

Krajiab, or roselle, with anthocyanin, a red-coloured substance that strengthens immune system, should not be overlooked, she said.

Some fruits contain polyphenol, a substance that can boost immune system. Plants in this group such as yaw, or Indian mulberry, contain high levels of vitamin C.

Another rich source of vitamin C are makhampom, or Indian gooseberry and guava _ both of which are easy to find.

Makhampom or Indian gooseberry

Indian gooseberry, in particular, can keep the throat moist, preventing germs from lingering and causing infection.

To make drinks, some plants can just be boiled but a mixture of herbs offer greater benefits. Lime juice or honey are a good mixture that can enhance the taste.

“Mix the plants of choice in a blender and feel free to add vegetables with fragrance like celery or fruits like apple. When done, filter the juice.”

Apart from drinks, the pharmacist recommended clear chicken soup with tumeric roots as an ideal dish during winter.

Amino acid from the chicken helps enlarge the bronchial tubes, unclogging the respiratory system, while turmeric is well known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory components.

“In the North, locals have plukao [Houttuynia cordata Thunb] and husua, or Indian borage, a plant that is known as local oregano, in their kitchen. Both can be used to treat respiratory problems and coughing.”

Pitiporn said sunlight is also useful _ yet overlooked _ as a natural source of vitamin D.

She said it’s necessary for people to get out of the house to get fresh air and enjoy mild sunlight that provides vitamin D for at least 15-20 minutes every day.

Those in vulnerable groups like the old should always wear a scarf and socks, particular at night to maintain good health.

Khing or ginger

Bill & Sheila’s A-Z of herbs

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