Ward Off Cold and Flu with Curry

Women in India serve their families an immune-strengthening broth which features curry, cumin, garlic and lemon three times a week to prevent sickness. The spicy broth is also used as home remedy at the onset of cold and flu symptoms. My Indian neighbor tells me it is so effective that congestion, stuffiness and other symptoms are relieved almost immediately after it is consumed, making the use of stronger medication unnecessary.


I also did a little research and found that curry is so rich in phenolic compounds, anti-inflammatories that reduce pain, swelling and tissue inflammation as quickly and as effectively as prescription anti-inflammatory meds but without the risk of side effects. According to experts, the powerful antioxidants in cumin, garlic and lemon build immunity, fortifying the body against pathogens in just one week. And here's an added perk, eating curry just once every six months can boost brainpower. Thanks to curry's curcumin, it inhibits the buildup of harmful protein deposits in the brain.

To ward off cold and flu, try this recipe: In a small pot, heat 1 teaspoon olive oil. Add 1/2 teaspoon each curry and cumin; 2 cloves garlic, grated; 1 tablespoon lemon juice and 12 oz. water. Simmer for 5 minutes, or until reduced to 1 cup. Add salt and pepper to taste, if desired.

Comments

Swubird said…
Liz:

Another great tip. I'll cut it out and we'll keep in in our med kit.
Thanks.

Happy trails.
Mrs Sweetwater said…
Liz, that was a great tip. I knew that curry helped with colds, but I never knew the recipe for the indian soup. that's perfect.

thanks my friend.
Tellie said…
Yum! Now I have another reason to go out for curry more often.
Metz said…
I love spicy food whenever I myself get a cold :) This is one of the spices that I use a lot myself in most of my weekly cooking :) heheh

Have a great week ahead :) xoxo
Debo Hobo said…
That's a great tip. Flu season is going to be a deadly one this year as they are reporting in the media. I drink Echinacea tea and will add curry to my diet more often as well too.
thanks for the recipe. much rather take this than have a flu shot
Not only is it good for our health, curry also makes dishes tastier!
That recipe sounds like it taste better than any flu or cold medicine around. Thanks for sharing this. :)