Boost your immunity with juice of giloy, a common herb in Kerala

Immunity is a crucial factor that keeps us healthy and its relevance has grown during these times of COVID-19 pandemic. In fact, immunity protects us from the threats posed by bacteria, viruses and other microbes. In case any disease-causing microorganism enters our body, the immune system creates white blood corpuscles (WBCs) and some chemical substances to destroy them. All of us can boost our immunity by leading a healthy lifestyle.

We can become healthier by taking nutritious food, engaging in exercise and maintaining regular sleeping habits. However, though building immunity takes time, there are some food items that give a boost to our body’s defence mechanisms. Giloy juice, widely used in Ayurveda to treat various diseases, is among them.

Rich in antioxidants, giloy is referred to as ‘Amrutha’ or nectar in Sanskrit. Neutralising the free radicals, the antioxidants free the poisonous substances in our blood. That makes giloy juice a good preventive medicine against liver disease and infection in the urinary tract. Other benefits of the juice include enabling good digestion, preventing difficulties in breathing and reducing stress and anxiety.

Ingredients of giloy juice

Take 6-7 leaves of sacred basil, five cloves, ginger finely chopped and 2-3 leaves of giloy and lemon crush.

Method of preparation

Add cloves, sacred basil leaves, ginger and giloy leaves to a glass of water and boil for seven minutes. After it is cooled to room temperature, add 1-2 teaspoons of lemon crush before drinking.

Sacred basil is known to boost our immunity, protecting the body from virus, bacteria, fungi and other microbes. It is also good for our skin and a remedy for breathing problems.

Meanwhile, ginger has antimicrobial, antibiotic and anti-inflammatory properties. It has compounds which increase the number of WBCs. Clove is another ingredient having high medicinal properties. It is rich in antioxidants.