South Florida has gone viral — and not in a good way. We’re in the throes of cold and flu season. Before running to the doc or drug store, check your fridge or spice rack. Spices are the source of more serious body boosters than your mom’s chicken soup (sorry, Mom).
In some ways, though, mother knows best. Heat fights a cold. Hot tea and steaming miso soup made with seaweed (wakame flakes) not seafood (boniato flakes) are veg-friendly, comforting and keep you well-hydrated — very important.
Another way to get heat is by way of warming spices. Chili, garlic, ginger and turmeric all create thermogenesis — digestive combustion, so to speak, or warmth in the body. They taste good and help you feel better, too. This delicious precept comes courtesy of Ayurvedic medicine, India’s ancient holistic healing system integrating mind, body and spirit.
These spices aren’t just Ayurvedic, they’re anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial and immunity-strengthening, with cleansing properties that help flush the yuck from your system. Fresh spices give you the whole-food advantage, but even dried, they’re ancient home remedies and modern miracles, too.