Are you having too much kadha? Here’s what to know

Additionally, boil the spices only for 10-15 minutes and have it first thing in the morning because that’s when the enzyme activity is at its maximum. “Be careful in making it according to your health condition. Talk to your dietitian. For example, use tulsi and peppercorns for cough, and cumin and coriander for digestion,” said Sabherwal.

She also highlighted that one should not store it in the refrigerator for use on the next day. “Make it fresh and have it immediately.”

What to understand?

Excess of anything is harmful – that is also true for kadha, a traditional herbal concoction of simple kitchen ingredients, including herbs and spices such as black pepper, dried ginger powder, cinnamon, turmeric, bay leaves, cloves, Giloy, and holy basil, amongst others.

Does every kadha aid digestive issues? (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Notably, kadha gained popularity during the Covid-19 pandemic and was widely used to improve immunity. “Kadha contains phytochemicals that potentially help combat various respiratory disorders like cough, cold, and flu. Ingredients like clove, turmeric, and black pepper in kadha have high antioxidant capacity, which scavenges free radicles in the body. These ingredients also improve immunity and metabolism to some extent,” said Aman Puri, founder, Steadfast Nutrition.

Giloy, another common ingredient in kadha, has been traditionally used to improve immunity. Kadhas prevent congestion and make the respiratory system more effective, he explained.

According to Ayurveda, there are three Prakriti (nature) of the body: vata, pitta, and kapha, which are fundamental to maintaining health. “The type and amount of kadha one should have depends on your Prakriti. The kapha prakriti body types get cold and cough during seasonal changes and can take a cup of kadha 2-3 times a day since it provides warmth to the body,” Puri mentioned.

According to Puri, an individual with pitta dosha should only take kadha once a day, as their body temperature is high and metabolism is faster, which may lead to acidity. “Individuals who have vata dosha can have kadha twice a day but with 2-3 drops of ghee to reduce dryness in the body,” he added.

Although kadhas improve immunity and metabolism, one should know when to stop. “Their prolonged use may cause ailments like constipation, heartburn, piles and haemorrhoids, nose bleeding, and acne. Hence, use kadhas according to your body’s needs,” said Puri.

 

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