Ayurveda, a 5,000-year-old natural medicine system that originated in India, has been promoted throughout the pandemic as a means of relieving the symptoms of Covid-19, the flu – even the common cold.
Also known as Tinospora cordifolia or heart-leaved moonseed, it is best consumed as a tea or in tablet form. Licorice powder also works to reduce fever, and enhances immunity by boosting interferon levels – a key chemical that helps fight off viruses. “Crush a few holy basil leaves, strain the juice, and have it with honey – or simply chew three to four leaves every day to keep the nasal passages clear.”
“Dried ginger , particularly, kindles the digestive fire and disintegrates toxic waste to clear the channels in the body, and also helps lower fever,” Pandya says. Santhosh recommends a blend of three ingredients, known in Ayurveda as trikatu , for relief from coughs.