These highly nutritious monsoon drinks will help keep infections at bay

Fortunately, nature offers a delicious choice of beverages that can help bolster our immune systems during this vulnerable period. We explore five potent monsoon drinks that not only quench your thirst but also serve as a flavourful shield against common seasonal ailments. 

Kanikka Malhotra, consultant dietician and certified diabetes educator, says, “These drinks are made with readily available herbs and spices, minimising the risk of side effects from synthetic ingredients.”

She adds, “Many monsoon drinks are consumed hot or warm, which can be especially helpful with staying hydrated during the monsoon season. These drinks are often embedded in traditional practices and can serve as a comforting reminder of home remedies.”

Five monsoon drinks that will protect you from infections

Malhotra details the five drinks and the specific compounds and nutrients in them that contribute to boosting the immune system:

Turmeric Milk

*Curcumin: The active compound in turmeric, curcumin, has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It helps modulate the immune system and enhances the body’s defense mechanisms. 

*Black Pepper: Contains piperine, which enhances the bioavailability of curcumin, making it more effective.

Ginger Tea

*Gingerol: The main bioactive compound in ginger, gingerol, has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. It helps in reducing oxidative stress and boosts immunity. 

*Vitamin C: Ginger also contains small amounts of vitamin C, which is essential for immune function.

We explore five potent monsoon drinks (Source: Freepik)

Tulsi Tea

*Eugenol: Tulsi contains eugenol, a compound with strong antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. It helps in protecting against infections and supports the immune system. 

*Vitamin C and A: Tulsi is rich in vitamins C and A, both of which are crucial for maintaining a healthy immune system.

Mint and Lemon Detox Drink

*Menthol: Mint contains menthol, which has antimicrobial properties and can soothe the digestive tract. 

*Vitamin C: Lemons are an excellent source of vitamin C, which is vital for immune function. It stimulates the production of white blood cells and helps in fighting infections.

Cinnamon and Clove Tea

*Cinnamaldehyde: The main active component in cinnamon, cinnamaldehyde, has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps in boosting the immune response. 

*Eugenol: Cloves contain eugenol, which has potent antimicrobial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. It supports the immune system by protecting against infections.

Potential contraindications or side effects to be aware of

Malhotra says, “Certain monsoon drinks, while generally safe, may have contraindications for individuals with specific health conditions. For example, high doses of ginger, commonly used in ginger tea, can cause heartburn or irritate the digestive tract in those prone to gastrointestinal issues.” 

Additionally, honey, often added to lemon ginger tea, can harbour spores that cause infant botulism, so it shouldn’t be given to children under one year old. It’s important to be mindful of potential interactions, especially for individuals with pre-existing conditions like diabetes (due to sugar content) or taking blood thinners (as some spices may affect clotting). 

“Consulting a qualified healthcare professional before significantly increasing your intake of these drinks during the monsoon season can help ensure you’re reaping the benefits without unintended consequences,” Malhotra suggests.