Winters sneak in quietly. One week you’re fine, and the next you’re wrapped in three blankets, sipping ginger tea, wondering why your throat feels like sandpaper. It’s that time of year when immunity suddenly becomes everyone’s favorite word. Instead of stocking up on supplements, how about starting with what’s already in your kitchen or nearby store?
Here are seven simple but powerful immunity boosters shown by the experts from the best ayurvedic hospital in Surat that you can rely on this winter.
1. Chyawanprash
It’s the OG of Indian immunity tonics. Most of us grew up with that familiar sweet-spicy smell wafting from a spoonful of Chyawanprash before school. It’s packed with amla (Indian gooseberry), honey, ghee, and a bunch of herbs you probably can’t name but your grandmother swears by.
One teaspoon a day, preferably with warm milk or water, can help strengthen your immune response and improve energy. It’s also rich in antioxidants, which means your body gets an extra layer of defense against infections. “Just don’t overdo it. Too much of anything, even a good thing, isn’t great.”, warn the doctors from Niramay Ayurvedic Hospital, an ayurvedic panchkarma hospital in Surat.
2. Giloy
If you’ve never heard of Giloy, it’s time to get familiar. Known as “Amrita” in Ayurveda, it’s often used for its immune-modulating properties. People usually take it as juice or chew the stem (if they can handle the taste). It’s slightly bitter, almost medicinal, but it works wonders for fever, fatigue, and general weakness.
You can find Giloy juice in most Ayurvedic stores, or you can boil the stems at home and sip the water. It’s not delicious, but your body will thank you later.
3. Turmeric Milk
The famous haldi doodh. Once a childhood punishment, now a global wellness trend. Turmeric has curcumin, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. When combined with warm milk and a pinch of black pepper (which helps absorption), it becomes a comforting, golden immunity potion. The best ayurvedic doctors in Surat swear by the warm milk and turmeric as an immunity booster.
If you’re feeling fancy, add a bit of honey or cinnamon. Just don’t skip the pepper. That’s what makes the magic happen.
4. Tulsi (Holy Basil)
Tulsi is more than just a plant in your grandmother’s courtyard. It’s a natural immunity booster and a stress reliever. You can chew the leaves raw in the morning or brew them into a soothing tea.
5. Amla
Tiny but mighty, amla is one of the richest natural sources of Vitamin C. One fruit has more vitamin C than several oranges combined. That’s impressive.
You can eat it raw if you don’t mind the sour punch, or take it as juice or candy (the sugared ones from the local store count too, honestly). Regular intake helps strengthen immunity, improves digestion, and gives your skin a healthy glow. It’s a win on all fronts.
6. Honey and Ginger
When your nose feels blocked and your throat’s on fire, this duo comes to the rescue. Fresh ginger juice mixed with honey soothes irritation and clears out phlegm. According to the experts from Niramay Ayurvedic Hospital, also known as one of the best ayurvedic hospitals in Gujarat, the warmth from ginger improves circulation, and honey acts as a natural antimicrobial.
You can take a spoonful straight or mix it in warm water or tea. It’s old-school, yes, but it still works better than half the cough drops out there.
7. Garlic
This one divides people. Some love it; others can’t stand the smell. But garlic is a powerhouse when it comes to immunity. It contains allicin, a compound that helps the body fight off viruses and bacteria.
If you can, try eating one raw clove in the morning. It’s strong, no doubt, but effective. Or use it generously in soups, curries, and stir-fries. Garlic doesn’t just make food tastier, it helps your body stay strong through the season.
A Few Final Thoughts
You don’t need to turn your kitchen into an Ayurveda lab. The idea is to build small, consistent habits. A spoon of Chyawanprash, a warm cup of turmeric milk before bed, or a few tulsi leaves in the morning can make a real difference over time.
Also, immunity isn’t just about what you eat. It’s about how you live. Get enough sleep, move your body, stay hydrated, and keep stress in check. Most of all, do not shy away from seeking the best ayurvedic treatment in Surat.
Winter has its charm with crisp mornings, cozy nights, comfort food but it also tests your health. So this season, stock up on warmth, care, and a few time-tested immunity boosters. You’ll feel the difference.
