As many parts of North India experienced heavy downpours, the Indian Meteorological Department stated that the cold wave is likely going to last for another five days. This forecast has concerned many North Indians who have been witnessing one of the longest winters in a very long time.
It is unprecedented that such low temperatures persist in North India, and are showing no mood to rise even though February has started. Doctors and health experts have warned that such low temperatures combined with the toxic fog can be deadly, or at the very least, exceptionally damaging to health. On top of that, the untimely rain has catapulted the health risk.
During this time, one remedy that can offer hope is trying Ayurvedic soups, shared Dr Ganesh Chaudhary, Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery, PHC, Darbhanga, Bihar, while talking to the team of OnlyMyHealth. He listed a collection of Ayurvedic soups designed to not only warm you up during winter rains but also support your overall well-being.
Ginger-Turmeric Broth
Start your rainy days with a healing ginger-turmeric broth, suggested Dr Chaudhary. Ginger's warming properties aid digestion and boost circulation, while turmeric provides anti-inflammatory benefits, according to a study published in MDPI’s journal ‘Molecules.’ “Combine them with vegetable broth, black pepper, and a dash of lemon for a comforting, immune-boosting meal,” he said.
Vegetable Soup
“Craft a wholesome vegetable soup with seasonal, locally sourced produce. Add ingredients like carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, and coriander,” said Dr Chaudhary. He added, “Season with cumin and fennel seeds for their digestive benefits, creating a delicious and nutrient-rich soup.”
Mung Bean Soup
Mung beans are a staple in Ayurvedic cooking, known for their easy digestibility. “Prepare a mung bean soup by simmering soaked beans with spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric,” suggested Dr Chaudhary. The result is a protein-packed, easily digestible soup that aligns with Ayurvedic principles.
According to an overview published in the journal ‘Plant Biochemistry,’ ‘Mung beans not only have good nutritional value but also show hypolipidemic, cholesterol-lowering, antiallergy, antibacterial, and antitumor effects,’ all of which can boost your immunity and prevent illnesses during winter rain.
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Lentil Spinach Soup with Ghee
Lentils, a source of plant-based protein, can be combined with nutrient-rich spinach to create a hearty Ayurvedic soup. According to a study published in the journal ‘Natural Beverages, 2019,’ spinach is so nutritious that it is often used in vaccine production.
On the other hand, lentils help prevent digestive diseases, shared Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health. “Finish it with a drizzle of ghee, known for its soothing and grounding properties in Ayurveda,” said Dr Chaudhary.
Fennel-Infused Pumpkin Soup
Lastly, Dr Chaudhary suggested blending fennel's aromatic essence with pumpkin's richness. “Fennel aids digestion and adds a subtle sweetness, complementing the earthiness of pumpkin. Season with warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for a well-rounded Ayurvedic soup experience” shared Dr Chaudhary. This soup can also save you from winter infections, as a study by the University of Sargodha shared that pumpkin helps boost immunity.
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As winter rains beckon, these Ayurvedic soups provide warmth and comfort and align with the principles of balance and holistic well-being. Add these nourishing recipes to your winter rain routine to support your body's natural harmony. Remember to choose seasonal, organic ingredients whenever possible and savour the therapeutic benefits of Ayurveda with each soul-soothing sip.