The outbreak of the COVID-19 virus has made us pay more attention to hygiene and strengthening our immune systems, such as washing our hands frequently, wearing masks, maintaining social distance, avoiding risky activities, and choosing more vegetables and Thai herbs that are beneficial to the body.
Especially foods that help boost immunity and fight viruses. Did you know that you don’t have to go far to find these foods? You can find them from herbs growing around our homes. These herbs have scientific evidence to boost immunity, reduce inflammation, fight viruses, and prevent various diseases.
Turmeric : Turmeric contains Curcuminoids, which are outstanding in reducing inflammation. In vitro research has found that turmeric can inhibit the release of inflammatory substances and adjust the immune system to prevent the destruction of the lungs from viral infections.
What should I make : Turmeric Chicken Curry, Turmeric Fried Fish, Turmeric Soup
Galangal : Galangal is a traditional herb used to treat bronchitis. Galangal contains Quercetin, a polyphenol compound found in many plants. It has anti-inflammatory, immune-boosting, antiviral, and anti-cancer properties.
What menu should I make : Chicken Tom Kha, Shrimp Tom Yum,
Lemongrass : In the past, people used lemongrass to treat pneumonia, reduce fever, treat colds, treat malaria, and it was also found to have anti-cough properties and to relieve stress.
What menu should I make : Fresh shrimp lemongrass salad, lemongrass fish cakes, lemongrass fried chicken
Chili : Chili is a very good expectorant. You will notice that when we eat chili, our eyes will water and our nose will run. Foods that are suitable for restoring the lungs and respiratory system often contain chili, garlic, and spices.
What menu should I make : Stir-fried chicken with young chili, glass noodle salad with garden chili, Thai papaya salad
Onion : Onions are high in Quercetin, which helps reduce inflammation and is used to treat bronchitis and coughs.
What should I make : Fragrant omelet, fried shallots, vegetable salad
Mushrooms such as oyster mushrooms, shiitake mushrooms, maitake mushrooms : contain beta-glucans that bind to the walls of white blood cells, increasing their movement to capture foreign pathogens in the body.
What menu should I make : Mushroom salad, Mushroom salad, Grilled mushrooms
Holy basil : It has anti-influenza virus activity by inhibiting the viral Neuraminidase enzyme, which is an important target for treating and controlling the spread of the virus.
What should I make : Pad Krapow, Chicken with Krapow Sauce
Basil : Has antiviral and immunomodulating properties, with inhibitory effects on the release of several inflammatory substances.
What should I make : Stir-fried eggplant with basil, basil omelet, basil leaf curry
Cr. Abhaibhubejhr Thai Traditional Medicine Institute, Chao Phraya Abhaibhubejhr Hospital