The monsoon season brings a welcome relief from scorching heat, but along with the rains come a host of health concerns — viral infections, colds, coughs, flu, and waterborne diseases. With fluctuating temperatures and increased humidity, our immune systems can take a hit. However, with a few natural home remedies and preventive measures, you can stay strong and healthy throughout the rainy season.
Here’s a practical guide to help you avoid getting sick during monsoon and boost your immunity using simple home remedies.
🛡️ Preventive Steps to Avoid Getting Sick in the Monsoon
1. Stay Hydrated with Warm Fluids
- Why: Hydration helps flush out toxins. Warm fluids help clear the sinuses and soothe the throat.
- Try: Herbal teas like tulsi (holy basil), ginger, or cinnamon tea. Avoid cold drinks and street-side beverages.
2. Eat Light and Cooked Foods
- Why: Digestion slows down in monsoon; raw and oily foods may lead to infections.
- Try: Steamed veggies, khichdi, soups, and freshly cooked meals. Avoid leafy greens from the market—they often carry germs.
3. Avoid Stagnant Water and Damp Areas
- Why: Stagnant water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes (dengue, malaria).
- Do: Use mosquito nets, clean water tanks, and avoid letting water collect around the house.
4. Boost Immunity Naturally
- Include immunity-boosting spices in daily cooking: turmeric, ginger, garlic, black pepper, and cloves.
🍵 Home Remedies to Fight Monsoon Viruses
1. Ginger-Tulsi Tea for Cough and Cold
Ingredients:
- 5-6 tulsi (holy basil) leaves
- 1-inch ginger (grated)
- 1 tsp honey (optional)
- 1.5 cups water
How to Make:
Boil tulsi and ginger in water for 5–7 minutes. Strain and add honey. Drink warm twice a day.
Benefits: Tulsi boosts immunity, ginger has antiviral properties, and honey soothes the throat.
2. Turmeric Milk (Golden Milk)
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm milk (cow or plant-based)
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- A pinch of black pepper (for absorption)
How to Make:
Mix all ingredients and drink before bed.
Benefits: Turmeric is a natural anti-inflammatory and helps fight infections.
3. Steam Inhalation with Eucalyptus or Ajwain
How to Use:
Boil water in a bowl, add a few drops of eucalyptus oil or a tsp of ajwain (carom seeds), and inhale the steam under a towel.
Benefits: Clears blocked nose and sinuses, fights respiratory infections.
4. Homemade Kadha (Herbal Decoction)
Ingredients:
- Tulsi leaves, ginger, black pepper, cinnamon, cloves
- Optional: mulethi (licorice) and honey
How to Make:
Boil all ingredients in water until reduced by half. Strain and sip warm.
Benefits: Boosts immunity and helps prevent viral and bacterial infections.
5. Salt Water Gargle
How to Do:
Mix ½ tsp salt in warm water and gargle twice daily.
Benefits: Relieves sore throat and prevents bacterial buildup.
🌿 Bonus Tips
- Practice good hygiene: Wash hands frequently, especially after getting wet in the rain.
- Avoid street food: Especially raw or uncovered food.
- Dry off quickly: Change out of wet clothes to avoid fungal infections.
- Use natural disinfectants like neem water to clean floors.
✨ Stay safe, stay healthy, and let nature heal you the natural way this monsoon!