Ginger

First of all, ginger is full of antioxidants, without which you can’t have a complete immune system. Antioxidants are essential for the vigor of T-lymphocytes, the cells that go after viruses. And they also help actively produce antibodies that neutralize viruses and their toxic products.

Secondly, ginger can fight viruses on its own (although not as successfully as our immune system). It contains substances called “sesquiterpenes”: they slow down the multiplication of rhinoviruses and also improve the immune system. Sesquiterpenes are found in echinacea, which is known for its immune-stimulating properties, but it is much nicer, tastier and more natural to get them from ginger. A number of studies conducted by Indian and Chinese scientists have shown the effectiveness of ginger specifically in the fight against colds.

Thirdly, ginger stimulates the activity of macrophages – cells that play the role of wipers in our body. They “eat” the toxins that are inevitably produced as a result of the natural breakdown of cells and the course of metabolic processes. The fewer the toxins, the better the immune system, which is not under increased strain from the “debris” accumulating in the intercellular space. The detoxifying properties of ginger were confirmed by a recent study conducted by scientists at the Indian National Institute of Nutrition (ICMR).

Ginger is also good as an antipyretic. So even if you can’t escape the flu, regulate your temperature with ginger tea to help ease the symptoms of intoxication.

Ginger stores well in the fridge in its pristine form, but if you need to significantly extend its shelf life, you can do so in the following way. Peel the ginger, cut it into pieces, put it in a clean jar and fill it with vodka. Cover the jar with a lid and put it in the refrigerator.

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