Fruits and Desi Remedies You Should Eat During Respiratory Infection and Flu

As a clinical psychologist who studies the mind–body connection, I often remind patients that emotional well-being and physical healing are deeply interlinked. When the body fights respiratory infections or flu, its immune system and energy reserves are under stress. Nutrition and natural remedies play a key role in supporting recovery—not just physically, but also psychologically.


From a biological standpoint, viral infections trigger inflammation, fever, and dehydration. The body’s defense system works harder, increasing the need for vitamin C, antioxidants, and hydration. This is where fruits and Desi (traditional) nuskhas come in—they provide essential nutrients that strengthen immunity, soothe the throat, and clear congestion naturally.


Fruits like oranges, guavas, amla (Indian gooseberry), and pomegranates are rich in vitamin C and bioflavonoids, which enhance white blood cell activity and reduce inflammation. Bananas provide quick energy when appetite drops, and papaya supports digestion, which often slows during illness. Apple and pear juices are hydrating and gentle on the stomach, especially during fever or sore throat.


Among Desi nuskhas, some hold both scientific and therapeutic value. A classic mixture of honey and ginger acts as an antimicrobial and cough suppressant. Steam inhalation with ajwain (carom seeds) or tulsi (holy basil) tea opens nasal passages and reduces sinus pressure. Turmeric milk (haldi doodh), known for its curcumin content, has proven anti-inflammatory properties that help calm body aches and enhance immunity.


Psychologically, eating natural foods during illness also creates a sense of care and calm. The warm sensations from Desi drinks or soups soothe not only the throat but also the nervous system, signaling safety to the brain. This “comfort response” reduces stress hormones like cortisol, allowing the immune system to function more efficiently.


In short, when you’re unwell, let your food be your medicine. Fruits and traditional remedies support both physical recovery and emotional comfort—a perfect example of how ancient wisdom aligns with modern science.


Keywords:

fruits for flu recovery, desi remedies for cold, respiratory infection diet, natural immunity boosters, turmeric milk benefits, ginger honey cough remedy, vitamin C and flu prevention, traditional nuskha for flu, healing foods for respiratory infection, psychological comfort in illness


Popular posts from this blog

Importance of emotional intelligence and self-reflection in social media research

Social media, although an imaginary realm in many ways, is deeply rooted in our real-world experiences. Consider a study where 20 participants are observed: 10 playing cricket live on a field, and 10 engaging in the same activity through a 3D virtual reality device from their beds. Interestingly, the MRI or fMRI results from both groups would likely show similar brain activity, as for the brain, both experiences are equally real. Our brain processes all experiences—real or imagined—as if they are happening in the present moment. Whether we are living life authentically or imagining it behind a screen, we are still engaging with our surroundings in a meaningful way. In this sense, we are our imaginations, and we are also our real selves. Research on social media presents its own set of challenges. People often base their judgments and assumptions on what has been said or done by others at a specific time. In this context, it’s easy for individuals to taunt, criticize, or even try to und...
Read more

Understanding Social Constraints: A Psychological Perspective on Conformity and Individuality

Human beings are inherently social creatures, driven by an innate desire for connection, validation, and belonging. However, the complexity of societal norms and cultural expectations often creates a clash between individuality and conformity. This conflict is particularly pronounced when an individual's thoughts, feelings, or behaviors deviate from societal expectations. Such experiences can lead to emotional distress, social ostracism, or even trauma, revealing the intricate interplay between psychology and cultural dynamics. The Burden of Societal Norms Psychologists often refer to the phenomenon of adapting to societal expectations as normative social influence. This refers to the pressure to conform to the beliefs, values, and behaviors that are widely accepted within a specific cultural or social group. While conformity can foster cohesion, it often stifles individuality, particularly in societies with rigid patriarchal structures or deeply ingrained traditions. For example, ...
Read more

The Unspoken Realities of Adulthood: A Psychological Perspective

Adulthood is not just about age—it is about understanding humans. It is the stage where you finally see through the masks people wear, where you realize that kindness is not just a virtue but a necessity. Every human craves validation, seeks superiority, and wants to feel important. Carl Jung put it aptly—life is a constant struggle for priority. Have you ever noticed how even the simplest debates turn into battles of ego? The winner walks away feeling triumphant as if they have won a grand prize, while the loser carries an unspoken wound. When I understood this, I stopped debating. I learned to simply say, "Yes," "You're right," "Okay fine," and move on. Because why waste energy explaining something to someone who lacks the capacity or willingness to understand? Knowledge is not for display—it is for personal growth. The Faces People Wear People are double-faced. It is not pessimism; it is reality. A person who is a friend to everyone is a friend ...
Read more