The Big Question
Can a traditional homemade kadha help you feel better during the monsoon season?
The arrival of the monsoon brings welcome relief from the heat, but it also marks the season of coughs, colds, sore throats and other common viral infections. Damp weather, fluctuating temperatures and increased exposure to seasonal viruses make it easier to fall ill.
While there is no herbal drink that can prevent or cure viral infections, warm fluids and traditional spice-based beverages like kadha have long been used in Indian households to soothe common cold symptoms and provide comfort during seasonal illnesses.
Prepared with herbs and spices such as ginger, tulsi, cloves and black pepper, this traditional decoction is warming, aromatic and packed with ingredients that contain naturally occurring plant compounds studied for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
If you’re looking for a comforting homemade drink during the rainy season, here’s a simple kadha recipe that’s easy to prepare.
Quick Answer
What is the best homemade kadha for the monsoon?
A traditional kadha made using ginger, tulsi, cloves, black pepper, cardamom and liquorice root can be a soothing warm beverage during the monsoon. While it is not a cure for viral infections, drinking warm fluids may help relieve throat irritation, improve comfort and support hydration when you’re feeling under the weather.
Why These Ingredients Are Traditionally Used
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Ginger
Fresh ginger contains naturally occurring compounds called gingerols, which have been studied for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
It is traditionally used to:
- Soothe sore throats
- Support digestion
- Relieve nausea
- Provide a warming sensation
-
Garlic
Garlic contains allicin, a sulphur-containing compound that has been widely studied for its antimicrobial properties in laboratory settings.
Including garlic as part of a balanced diet may contribute to overall health.
-
Tulsi (Holy Basil)
Tulsi has been used in traditional medicine for centuries.
Research suggests it contains plant compounds with antioxidant properties and may help support overall wellness.
-
Black Pepper
Black pepper contains piperine, a naturally occurring compound that enhances the absorption of certain nutrients and spices.
It also adds warmth and flavour to the kadha.
-
Cloves
Cloves contain eugenol, a natural compound with antioxidant properties.
They also contribute a distinctive aroma and flavour.
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Cardamom
Cardamom provides a refreshing flavour and is traditionally used to support digestion after meals.
-
Liquorice Root (Jeshtimadh)
Liquorice root has traditionally been used to soothe throat irritation.
Note: People with high blood pressure, kidney disease or those who are pregnant should consult their healthcare provider before consuming liquorice regularly.
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Honey
Honey can help soothe a sore throat and may reduce coughing in adults and children over one year of age.
Never give honey to infants below one year of age.
-
Lemon
Fresh lemon adds vitamin C and a refreshing citrus flavour.
Although vitamin C does not prevent the common cold, adequate intake supports normal immune function.
Homemade Kadha Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups water
- 1-inch ginger, crushed
- 1 garlic clove, lightly crushed
- 2–3 cardamom pods
- 3 whole black peppercorns
- 2 cloves
- Small piece of liquorice root (optional)
- 4–5 fresh tulsi leaves
- 1 teaspoon honey (added after cooling slightly)
- Juice of half a lemon
Method
- Add water to a saucepan.
- Add ginger, garlic, pepper, cloves, cardamom, liquorice root and tulsi.
- Bring to a boil.
- Simmer until the liquid reduces by approximately half.
- Remove from heat.
- Allow the kadha to cool slightly before adding honey (to preserve its natural properties).
- Add fresh lemon juice.
- Strain and serve warm.
Tips for the Best Kadha
- Drink it warm not piping hot.
- Prepare fresh whenever possible.
- Adjust ginger and pepper according to your spice tolerance.
- If you have acid reflux, reduce the quantity of pepper and ginger.
- Honey should only be added after the drink has cooled slightly.
Who Should Be Careful?
Although kadha is made from common kitchen ingredients, it may not be suitable for everyone.
Speak with your healthcare provider if you:
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have uncontrolled high blood pressure
- Have chronic kidney disease
- Take blood-thinning medication
- Have frequent acidity or stomach ulcers
What Kadha Can and Cannot Do
Kadha May:
✔ Provide a comforting warm drink
✔ Help soothe throat irritation
✔ Support hydration
✔ Be part of a healthy lifestyle
Kadha Cannot:
✖ Cure viral infections
✖ Replace antibiotics when bacterial infections are present
✖ Replace medical treatment for high fever, pneumonia or severe illness
When Should You See a Doctor?
Seek medical attention if you experience:
- Fever lasting more than 2–3 days
- Difficulty breathing
- Persistent chest pain
- Severe dehydration
- Blood in sputum
- Symptoms that worsen instead of improving
Home remedies should never delay appropriate medical care.
Traditional recipes like homemade kadha have been passed down through generations for good reason they provide warmth, comfort and a sense of care during seasonal illnesses.
While kadha isn’t a cure for viral infections, it can be part of a healthy routine that includes adequate rest, hydration, nutritious food and timely medical care when needed.
Think of it as one supportive tool not the entire treatment plan.
Pro Tip: Building immunity isn’t about one drink it’s about your everyday habits. Track your hydration, nutrition, sleep and physical activity using the GOQii App. Your GOQii Personalised Health Coach can help you build sustainable habits that support immune health throughout the year.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I drink kadha every day?
Yes, in moderation. If you’re consuming it regularly, avoid making it overly concentrated, especially if you’re sensitive to spices or have acidity.
- Is kadha safe for children?
Children can have mild, diluted versions, but avoid giving honey to infants below one year of age. Consult your paediatrician if your child is unwell.
- Does kadha cure the common cold?
No. There is no scientific evidence that kadha cures viral infections. However, warm fluids may help relieve sore throat discomfort and congestion while your body recovers.
- Can I store kadha?
Freshly prepared kadha is best. If needed, refrigerate it for up to 24 hours and reheat gently before drinking.
#BeTheForce
Disclaimer: This recipe is intended for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Herbal preparations may interact with certain medications or medical conditions. If you have persistent fever, breathing difficulty or worsening symptoms, consult a qualified healthcare professional promptly.
No matter how much you try, getting caught in the rain or getting drenched cannot be avoided. This is often followed up by that dreaded sneeze that culminates into a fever which doesn’t leave your side for a few days. We’ve all been through this at some point or the other. Though there is something enchanting about the rainy season, it is also the time of the year when all the bacteria and viruses come out to play. These viruses and bacteria are responsible for problems like cold, cough, common flu, viral fever, and dengue, etc.
