5 reasons to start the day with Ginger, Amla, Turmeric & Pepper Shot during monsoon season

Come monsoon, and the risk of bacteria-borne illnesses increases. In such a situation, it is important to boost the immune system and create a protective shield that helps protect the overall functioning of the body during the damp season. One such practice that one can try at home is consuming a shot of ginger, amla, turmeric, and pepper on an empty stomach every morning. All these natural ingredients are a powerhouse of nutrition and aid with 360 protection of the body during the changing weather. Scroll down to read the benefits of consuming this concoction and how to make it at home.

To make this healthy shot, take 2 tbsp amla juice, 1/2 tsp grated ginger, 1/4 tsp turmeric powder, a pinch of black pepper,1/4 cup warm water and a few drops of lemon juice. Mix well and consume it on an empty stomach.

Amla is rich in vitamin C, and turmeric and ginger are loaded with powerful antioxidants. They together strengthen the immune system and help the body fight off seasonal colds, coughs, and flu. As per experts, the bioactive compounds of amla including gallic acid and beta-glucogallin, contribute to immune regulation and may serve as potential therapies for inflammatory and immune-related diseases.

It is said that turmeric, when paired with black pepper for better absorption of nutrients, reduces joint stiffness and reduces inflammation caused by damp weather conditions. According to the National Library of Medicine, turmeric exerts anti-inflammatory effects and makes for a promising natural agent for managing inflammatory conditions. It is also said that amla exhibits potent anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting inflammatory mediators and enzymes, enhancing antioxidant defenses, and modulating immune responses.

During monsoon season, digestion often slows down. In such a situation, the use of ginger and black pepper in the concoction helps stimulate digestive juices, improve metabolism, and prevent bloating. According to a study, ginger contains the key bioactive compound called gingerol, which helps food move faster through the digestive tract and reduces symptoms like bloating, gas, and constipation. And black pepper is said to stimulate hydrochloric acid (HCl) production in the stomach, which enhances the breakdown and absorption of nutrients from food and its carminative properties that help reduce gas, bloating, and intestinal discomfort by relieving spasms in the digestive tract.

Black pepper contains the active compound called piperine, which supports detoxification by enhancing liver detoxification enzymes and reducing oxidative stress. According to a study, it is said that piperine helps increase the activity of key liver detoxification enzymes such as cytochrome P450 enzymes, glutathione S-transferases (GST), quinone reductase (QR), and UDP-glucuronosyltransferases (UDP-GT). And these enzymes play a key role in metabolizing and removing toxins and carcinogens from the body. On the other hand, amla is said to be rich in phytochemicals like quercetin, gallic acid, corilagin, and ellagic acid, that contribute to the protection of liver cells and promote detoxification process.

It is said that the combination of these ingredients help clear mucus, soothes the throat and keeps lungs healthy, especially during monsoon month, when the air is moist and infections are common. According to a study, curcumin has anti-inflammatory properties, which modulates pathways that trigger inflammation and block inflammatory mediators. It helps reduce airway inflammation seen in bronchitis and other respiratory diseases. As per experts, amla also contains anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce swelling and irritation in the respiratory tract, helping to relieve symptoms of allergies, colds, and other respiratory infections.

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DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the research we refer to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.