Priyanka Chopra shares she swears by kadha for seasonal issues (Photo: Priyanka Chopra/Instagram)
Priyanka Chopra Jonas recently spoke about introducing her husband, American singer Nick Jonas, to some quintessential Indian home remedies. When comedian Kapil Sharma asked her about it on the first episode of The Great Indian Kapil Sharma Show on Netflix, Priyanka shared, “Kadha…jab tabiyat kharab hoti hai, woh kadha hamare ghar me zaroor banta hai. Wherever Nick is, woh garam paani me kadha zaroor peete hai. He knows that much (Indian herbal mix …whenever someone is sick in the house, we make kadha…wherever Nick is, he has kadha mixed in hot water),” said Chopra, 43.
Taking a cue from her confession, let’s understand how kadha, or herbal drinks, are popular kitchen staples in India.
Kadha, a herbal decoction typically made from boiling spices and herbs like ginger, turmeric, black pepper, cinnamon, tulsi (holy basil), and cloves in water, is a comfort drink in India as it is considered as “a natural phytochemical boost that supports the body’s defense mechanisms, especially during seasonal changes or times when immunity faces stress”, said consultant dietitian Garima Goyal.
From a physiological perspective, the ingredients commonly used in kadhas offer properties that can support the immune system and respiratory health. “Ginger and turmeric hold anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds, black pepper enhances nutrient absorption, and tulsi contributes antimicrobial and calming effects. When brewed into a warm decoction, these compounds become more bioavailable. They can help soothe the throat, ease mild congestion, and support overall comfort during coughs, colds or seasonal fluctuations,” Goyal added.
At the same time, it is essential to understand that kadhas are supportive, not curative. “They can make you feel more comfortable, hydrated, and possibly reduce the severity of mild symptoms, but they do not replace medical treatment when an infection or illness is present,” said Goyal.
For most healthy adults, enjoying one cup of kadha a day during cold and flu seasons — or when feeling mildly stressed from the weather — can be beneficial and gentle on the system. “Two cups may be suitable if you have symptoms like congestion or sore throat, provided the ingredients are balanced and not too spicy,” said Goyal.
Too much of anything, even a traditional remedy, can backfire. Excessive daily use of potent herbs and spices over long periods may irritate the digestive tract, cause acid reflux, or trigger sensitivity in individuals with gastritis or irritable bowel issues. People with certain medical conditions, such as gallstones or acid peptic disease, should be cautious and consult a healthcare professional before daily use, Goyal stressed.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.