Garlic Water Vs Ginger Water: Expert Explains Which Is Better For Boosting Immunity

Garlic Water Or Ginger Water: Garlic and ginger are two of the most popular and ancient ingredients used worldwide, not just for their distinct and potent flavors in cooking, but also for their long-standing medicinal properties. When it comes to home remedies, few ingredients are as celebrated as garlic and ginger. Both are packed with powerful antioxidants and natural healing properties that help support your immune system.

To understand which one truly gives you an edge during cold and flu season, we consulted Dr Shabana Parveen, Clinical Nutritionist, Artemis Hospitals, who shared her insights on how these two natural tonics benefit your health:

Garlic Water For Immunity

Garlic has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. When infused in warm water, it releases a compound called allicin, known for its antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory effects. Dr Shabana Parveen shares, “Allicin is a compound in garlic that is known for being very good at killing bacteria, viruses and fungi. Allicin is released when garlic is crushed or soaked in warm water.”

According to the expert, drinking garlic water regularly may:

• May help fight germs that cause infections.

• Support heart health by lowering cholesterol and blood pressure.

• Improve digestion and reduce bloating.

She explains, “Garlic water acts like a natural detox drink. It helps flush out toxins, enhances blood circulation, and gives the immune system a gentle but steady boost.” Some people might not like how strong it tastes or smells and it might upset their stomach if they take it on an empty stomach.

How To Make Garlic Water At Home?

• Crush 2-4 fresh garlic cloves. 

• Soak them in a cup of hot water for 10-15 minutes. 

• You can add a little honey or lemon for taste. 

• Drink it on an empty stomach for best results.

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Ginger Water For Immunity

Ginger, another kitchen staple, is equally known for its healing power. It contains gingerol, a natural compound that has strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Dr Shabana Parveen explains, “Ginger has a lot of gingerol and shogaol which are compounds that fight inflammation and free radicals. Ginger water can help with a sore throat, coughing and clearing mucus, which makes it great for when the seasons change.”

Dr Parveen says, “Ginger water is excellent for easing cold symptoms, soothing sore throats, and improving digestion. It helps your body stay resilient against seasonal infections.”

Regular consumption of ginger water may:

• Relieve nausea and digestive discomfort.

• Ease inflammation in joints and muscles.

• Strengthen the body’s defence against viruses.

How To Make Ginger Water?

• Slice a few pieces of fresh ginger or you can grate it. 

• Boil 4 cups of water with 1-2 tablespoons of peeled and sliced or grated ginger for 10 minutes. 

• Strain the ginger out, and you can add honey or lemon to taste. 

• Serve the water hot or cold. 

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Garlic Water Vs Ginger Water: Which Works Better?

Both garlic water and ginger water offer impressive health benefits and can naturally strengthen your immune system. The choice depends on what your body needs, how well it can handle it and what you like.

While both drinks are immunity boosters, their benefits vary slightly. Garlic water is better known for its antibacterial and cholesterol-lowering effects, while ginger water stands out for its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties.

Dr Parveen suggests, “Garlic water might help more if you get colds or throat infections a lot. Ginger water might be better for you if you have weak digestion, acid reflux and a cough and cold that won't go away because the weather changes.”

So, start your mornings with one of these simple drinks and give your immunity a natural boost, one sip at a time.

Note: Disclaimer: Before adding ginger or garlic water to your diet, make sure to consult your doctor.

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