Star Anise is the secret flu fighter in the kitchen you should be having!

Having a strong immunity is important and we are sure you must have stocked up on medicines to fight the common cold or flu. While medications certainly work, we often forget the value of natural remedies with ingredients that are readily available in the kitchen, some of which can even help you fight a nasty cold, cough or flu.

From ginger tea to turmeric milk, we all use tried and tested 'nuskas' when we are sick. There is another spice that is extremely soothing when you have flu-like symptoms, which is star anise.

Star anise is often referred to as natural medicine. It contains high quantities of Vitamin A and C, which are extremely helpful in recovery and fighting infections in the body. Vitamin C particularly is soothing during a cold.

Locally known as chakra phool, the peculiar spice is loaded with super health benefits for your body and can also help boost your immunity naturally.

Wellness and lifestyle coach, Luke Coutinho recently shared an Instagram post praising the benefits of the same. He wrote:

"In fact, you will be surprised to know that in a lot of cough syrups as well as flu drugs, including Tamiflu, Star Anise is the main ingredient. Not just that, it has also potent health benefits which work as an elixir for a recovering body."

Two of the main active ingredients in star anise are thymol, terpineol which helps relieve cold, cough and any fight irritants which might be attacking the respiratory tract. Although the antiviral property of the spice is still under study, it may be extremely effective in fighting ailments of the upper respiratory tract.

A prevalent symptom of rising flu infection or a nasty viral infection is gastrointestinal issues such as nausea or bloating. Star anise contains soothing properties, which aid digestion, control symptoms like nausea and may even be helpful for women who have bad menstrual cramps.

What does the body need to fight off toxins and boost immunity? Antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents, both of which star anise is rich in. Star anise also has proven antibacterial and microbe fighting properties which make it a healthy spice. Consuming this regularly, in any form can boost your immunity.

We are sure you must have used this exotic spice to make tea or a special curry, but it's time you think outside the box. If you want to keep infections at bay, drinking a cup of soothing star-anise infused tea regularly will be a healthy choice.

Boil a cup of water and add 4-5 star anise to it. Let it simmer down well. Cool for 10-15 minutes before drinking. Your cold and cough fighting drink is ready in minutes!

Luke also shared an easy recipe for a detoxing concoction, which also combines the healing properties of other Indian spices like ginger and cumin. Add these spices to some boiling water. Strain the solution.

Both the drinks are best consumed on an empty stomach. It can also be given to young children. If you have been diagnosed with ovarian or spiked up oestrogen levels, consider taking a doctor's advice first before adding this to your diet. Moderation is advised.