Fight COVID-19 With Anti-Viral and Immune-Boosting Herbs and Spices
By Iminza Keboge
Published May 10, 2020
Kenyans have been advised to prepare their meals with anti-viral and immune-boosting herbs and spices as a measure to fight the novel Coronavirus.
“As you stay home to #KomeshaCorona try to add the following anti-viral and immune-boosting herbs and spices you prepare for yourself and your family: chilli pepper, oregano, rosemary or tumeric, fresh garlic, and ginger,” Kenya’s Ministry of Health said in a tweet on April 26, 2020.
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The Ministry appears to be operating on the assumption that everyone knows what it recommends as conventional wisdom says that ‘we are what we eat’.
But are just how useful are these herbs? Are they good for everyone?
Chilli Pepper, that is also known as Capsicum annuum, is a hot-flavoured fruit that is used in spicing up meals. It is said to contain some vitamins, proteins, fibre and minerals such as potassium and copper all of which are important in keeping humans healthy.
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Though chilli pepper is taken in small quantities, it is said to contribute to pain relief and weight management. However, chilli pepper may cause the digestive system not to function normally besides exacerbating, not causing, heartburn or stomach ulcers.
Oregano, according to those in the know, is a culinary herb whose leaves are said to contain chemicals that could help in reducing cough and spasms, assist in food digestion and in fighting against some bacteria, viruses, fungi, intestinal worms, and other parasites.
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Tumeric, on the other hand, is said to carry many medicinal benefits for the body and brain.
Used in India as a spice and medicine, nutritionists say tumeric contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may be used in keeping cancer, alzheimer’s and heart diseases at bay.
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Though turmeric may be added to scrambled eggs, roasted vegetables, rice, soups, smoothies or tea, it may also cause abdominal pain and cramps, kidney stones, nausea and diarrhea, iron deficiency and even some allergic reaction.
Rosemary, that is said to be a good source of iron, calcium, and vitamin B-6, was traditionally used in alleviating muscle pain, improving memory, boosting the immune and circulatory system, and in promoting hair growth.
Though hailed for its health benefits, Rosemary, a herb that may be used in flavouring chicken, lamb and tea, it is said that it could cause vomiting, spasms, coma, fluid in the lungs, and miscarriage if taken in excess amounts.
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Garlic is used mostly in the control of high blood pressure, high levels of cholesterol and hardening of the arteries.
Ginger is a flowering plant whose root is used as a spice and a form of medicine.
While taking ginger may help in quelling nausea and vomiting, relieving period pain, balancing blood sugar, and reducing weight and reduce the risk of developing chronic disease, it may also lead to heartburn, diarrhoea, stomach upset, increased menstrual flow or even miscarriage if taken in excess.
