Does it feel like you can never escape flu season? Or maybe you’re finding it impossible to recover from a cough, which doesn’t seem to improve, no matter what you try. If this describes what you’re going through, fret not – here are five herbal teas that may just do the trick.
Chamomile tea increases your urinary levels of hippurate which have been associated with increased antibacterial activity. Chamomile also promotes the production of white blood cells, which are able to fight infections. This is why the tea appears is a go-to immunity booster, and can fight ailments associated with colds. If you wish to get yourself a flavourful cup of chamomile tea, get Nilufer Tea's Orange & Chamomile tea. With a strong presence of citrus fruits and chamomile, you'll definitely be relaxing and feeling better. You can get it here.
Image cred: pixabay
A particular type of polyphenols called catechins, which are antioxidant-rich organic chemicals, are believed to be responsible for the immune-boosting effects of green tea.
By protecting the immune system against damaging free radicals, green tea keeps your body adept at handling infections from bacteria, parasites, and influenza viruses. It also combats oxidative stress which can damage cells, and prevents autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis.
Steep green tea for no more than a minute or two in just-below-boiling water. A little lemon and honey can help to tone down its bitterness. Just a side note, however: adding milk will render the polyphenols ineffective.
Holy basil (or tulsi) is a well-known relaxant, but it is also an anti-inflammatory substance, and thus able to improve your immune system to keep your body strong. Holy basil tea can improve congestion, respiratory conditions, and illnesses ranging from mild colds and coughs to bronchitis and asthma. It can also help enhance kidney function and cleanse the body.
The plant has great antimicrobial and antibacterial properties that helps to strengthen the immune system of the user. In fact, there have been recent studies to show that holy basil may help in slowing down the growth of cancerous and diseased cells. Tulsi enhances the immune system, suppresses coughs, and helps to expel out phlegm, providing relief in colds and other respiratory illnesses.
Rooibos tea has 50 times more antioxidants than green tea and these antioxidants are known to thwart free radicals in the body, keeping damaged and cancer-causing cells to a minimum. The antiviral properties of polyphenols also provide an added boost to the immune system because they have anti-inflammatory and antimutagenic qualities, shielding the body from common colds, viruses, and the flu.
Apart from polyphenols, which reduce the detrimental effects of free radicals and cell metabolism, and slow down your body’s aging process, aspalathin and nothofagin are two other vital antioxidants that rooibos tea contains, making it a superior immunity boosting beverage.
Moreover, because of its ability to reduce the impact of oxidative byproducts in your neural pathways, it helps to improve cognitive ability, concentration, and focus.
For a healthy cup of rooibos tea, you can opt for Nilufer Tea's Ginger Rooibos Tea, a blend of rooibos, apple mint, ginger and lemongrass that give rise to its spicy and earthy flavour. Sounds delicious already? Get it here.
Image cred: pixabay
Ginseng tea boosts your immune system by enhancing the efficacy of its stress adapters, helping you steer clear of common ailments like colds and flus. Research has shown that ginseng tea helps regulate each individual type of immune cell, including natural killer cells, macrophages, dendritic cells, and B and T cells.
Furthermore, the antimicrobial compounds in ginseng help to defend the body against viral and bacterial infections and cleanses bacteria in the blood, kidneys, and spleen. Ginseng also inhibits the growth of viruses. Moreover, the miraculous adaptogenic properties of the herb functions to rejuvenate dead skin cells in older people.
So if you feel a cold or cough coming on (especially after eating way too many CNY goodies), you know what to do!
Written by: Anna Fernandez
There are several perks of being single: opportunities to find your unique voice, time that is completely yours, freedom to explore whatever or whoever you want and a space that only you can fill. However, with the commercialism of Valentine’s Day, it is hard to remember these when walking through a mall bombards you with Valentine’s Day deals and barely covered babies brandishing arrows. It is no secret that society sometimes tends to overemphasise romantic love at the expense of platonic and even self love. These are some things you could do when you feel the commercialised love getting you down. Embrace the time to grow and enjoy singlehood!
You know how before music streaming became a thing, couples used to make mixtapes or burn CDs with meaningful songs for each other? Do that but on your chosen music streaming site and with all the tracks that you love. That’s right, pour yourself a glass of wine (or whichever preferred beverage) and bust out those dance moves. Not only is it great exercise, you can shimmy yourself into confidence and a happier life with more endorphins.
Honestly, my first love is food and if you are the same, then this might be the way to go. Treat yourself to buying from your favourite place; never mind about the calories for this one day. Alternatively you could make/bake your favourite dish as well!
There is something exciting about being able to call the shots. You pick the movie without judgement, the snacks without catering to anyone else and the toilet breaks. You can freely weep or laugh without fear of disturbing anyone else. My choice for the occasion is Pacific Rim. There’s a story with enough meat to get into but also is balanced with robots and monsters punching each other.
Image cred: mvp on Unsplash
I can sense the scepticism so let me tell you why this is perfect for hanging out alone on Valentine’s Day. First of all, parks are very relaxing places – pick a place with ample shade and a breeze blowing – and in the midst of nature you can be sure to be energised. Plus in parks you’ll be mercifully free from Valentine’s Day hype. Add a great book to that and it sounds like a dream come true. I recommend detective stories like Agatha Christie’s Destination Unknown or if you would rather be exposed to more than your experience of life I suggest essay collections by people who are different from yourself. I’m reading Scaachi Koul’s One Day We’ll All Be Dead And None Of This Will Matter which is a lot less sombre than the title will have you expect.
Singapore has great exhibitions going on right now. If you want to feel inspired in your own life with the ideas that people have and decided to explore, then this may be something you should think about doing. If spending an afternoon or evening with the works of painting masters is something that excites you then you should definitely check out Century of Light at the National Gallery.
Image cred: Kelli Tungay on Unsplash
This could be anything! Write something or draw. Take a class in water colour painting, batik printing or stamp making. Freeing your mind from the routine and dabbling in something you have never done before will help to enhance your creativity.
Romantic love is very hyped up this time of year but you know what else important for life? Platonic love. Friends are always there to pick you back up if you fall. Have a friend you have wanted to call and check in with for ages? Now is the time. Not only would a reconnection make you feel good, your friend will probably be happier too.
Image cred: Austin Neill on Unsplash
Taking care of your body and mind is important. What better way to do both as you flow from one pose to another. Take a class, follow along with a YouTube video or even go to a beach to practice.
A little more on the practical side here but Chinese New Year is right around the corner. If you do not finish the tasks your parents, grandparents, or you yourself assigned at some point you can expect a lot of nagging. So save yourself the headache and finish it tonight.
That’s right, if you feel like now is the time then let her/him know how you feel. Who knows? Maybe the pre-packed Valentine’s Day magic will increase your chances on a date with the person you have been eyeing for weeks now. If you want to see other people attempt to ask their crushes out to fortify yourself, check out the #ValentinesDayChallenge hashtag on Twitter.
Now go forth and make your Valentine’s Day special for yourself!
Written by: Annmaria Patteri
There are two camps of people on Valentine’s Day. People who love the concept of a day to celebrate love and people who think it is a commercial scam. With prices of chocolate, flowers and stuffed toys hiked up almost twice the amount and with gaudy red and pink heart filled decorations, I don’t blame the people of the second camp. In fact, I agree. However, the romanticist in me also loves the idea of having a special day to spend together with your significant other just being appreciative.
Although Valentine's Day is over, the love with your partner isn't. With the recent passing of Valentine's Day, romance is actually still blooming in the air. So other than the obligatory grocery shopping date after Valentine’s to score all the suddenly cheap chocolate, here are some ideas that don’t completely succumb to the monstrosities of commercialism but still make your love special.
1. Black Panther Movie Date
While a movie at a cinema in the malls of Singapore is a great option (Black Panther on opening night anyone?), consider a movie under the stars or at a bar to change things up a little. It may be slightly more expensive, (Funzing has tickets going for $19 for pop up cinemas) but you do get complimentary drinks and a trendy venue.
2. Show Off Your Cooking Skills
What is sexier than a person that cooks? Trust me, the way to most people’s hearts is their stomachs, so if you decide to cook for your significant other, you may be surprised by how fun and romantic a dinner date could be. Plus if you guys cook together, not only would you be able to show off your skills, you could lip-sync love duets to each other while waiting for the food to be cooked. Quality time spent.
3. A Dinner Date at a Restaurant
But of course if neither of you can cook or do not have the energy to, don’t fret; a romantic restaurant dinner is also an option. I know Valentine’s Day dinners can get expensive. However if you look carefully you may find three course or even 4 course dinners for less than $50 a person. At Nassim Hill Bakery Bistro Bar you can get 3-course meal for $44.50/person. The course, Love me Tender, is only available for Valentine’s Day and you get a glass of wine each to go with your dinner. So impress your date without damage to your wallet. Plus since the place is near Botanic Garden you could also take a slow stroll by the Gardens.
4. Treat Yourselves to Some Live Music
Maybe you’ve always wanted to serenade your lover to some live music. And here in Singapore, you won't have to worry about the place to go because there are numerous bars and restaurants that offer live-singing, especially those of romantic songs that both you and your partner deem to be special. Even if you miss them for the occasion, do not worry because there's always the next date.
5. A Sports Date
If your significant other likes to be active and would rather not sit down for another dinner then maybe you could do something completely different from the usual date ideas that involve eating and shopping. Play a sport that both of you like or try something completely new. This could not only be a opportunity to show off that gym bod you have been working on but it could also show you how well you work together. If you are up for it, Clip ‘n Climb, the company from New Zealand which promises a theme park like rock climbing facility has opened its first Singaporean outlet in Tampines. With 17 different walls that are 8m high, you can be sure that your date will not be boring. Entry prices range from $18 for members, $22 for People’s Association or Safra members and $25 for guests.
Written by: Annmaria Patteri
With Chinese New Year (CNY) just around the corner, we believe preparations to celebrate the festive occasion is in full swing. After all, what is a festival without hearing the good ol' practices that our parents have iterated ever since we were young. Growing up, haven't you thought that these practices might be a tad bit ridiculous? Do you observe the various taboos associated with the season? These silly superstitions dictate the frenzy that we all go through right until the eve of CNY, so read on to know your New Year no-no’s and avoid all that misfortune!
Image cred: zhenhappy on Unsplash
Sweep the floor or take out the trash on the first day of CNY and you’re sweeping (or dumping) all your good fortune out! Do a big spring clean and toss your garbage beforehand if you want to be presented with money-making opportunities.
Image cred: stairhopper on Unsplash
The first and second day of the Lunar New Year is associated with the birthday of the Water God plus ‘head’ is synonymous with ‘beginning’ in Chinese hence don’t wash your hair. Flaunt your freshly-washed luscious locks and you’ll sever your luck and derail a good start to the year! We admit that this can be a challenge for the regular gym-goers because let’s be real, no one wants to smell horrible at school or work post-gym. Anyhow, whatever the state of your personal hygiene, cleanliness is generally frowned upon during this time. #justsaying
Utter “die” and it might lead to actual death. The Chinese believe that anything said during CNY will linger throughout the year so mince your words, mind your tongue and replace with euphemisms. Includes ghost stories and foul language too.
Image cred: vanschneider on Unsplash
Black hides food babies and unwanted fats but the colour is associated with death and mourning. Choose a cheery colour for the season before your superstitious relative shakes his or her head in complete disapproval. Red is considered as a vibrant, happy colour which will lead to a bright future. If red is too bright for your soul, opt for yellow, orange or gold. Your appearance and attitude sets the tone for the rest of the year so put away those black threads for awhile.
Image cred: Karly Santiago on Unsplash
Sharpen up your chef knives and what not before CNY if you wish to retain good luck in the new year because anything to do with cutting is about cutting off your luck. It’s apparently an omen for possible arguments with others too. Oh, and women should not knit or do any needlework – it’s believed that if you use a needle and have a child that year, your little one’s eyes will be as small as the eye of the needle. Truth or plain silly? You decide. For an extra peace of mind, all sharp tools are to be avoided for any accidental injuries, inauspiciousness and the depletion of wealth in general. We guess you’d have to find another way to open that bag of bakkwa…
While these taboos sound a bit unbelievable, there is a special flavour of the festive season that comes with believing in them. It reminds most people of their younger days when they hear stories that, while sound somewhat ridiculous, serve as a form of entertainment and amusement. Let us know if these taboos are true and in the meantime, here’s to a happy and prosperous CNY! Enjoy your long holidays and may the luck and fortune of the year of the dog follow you through!
Gone are the days when people give you weird stares for mentioning that you are vegetarian or vegan. For many people the choice to be vegetarian or vegan is based on a myriad of different reasons such as religion, health or the environment. Singapore lives up to its name of being a food haven and there are plenty of vegan and vegetarian friendly options in various different cuisines. However, not everyone is willing to jump on the vegan/vegetarian bandwagon. These restaurants can help you when you want to introduce a curious friend or a hesitant family member into the goodness of this diet.
Yes, I know. When you think of Japanese food, you think of sashimi and sushi which are clearly not vegan options. This was exactly what Mr Ho had in mind when he came up with the idea of Zen, a first of its kind Japanese themed vegetarian and vegan Restaurant together with Chef Masatshi Yasui. Herbivore is an offshoot of Zen and it includes Western dishes as well. Not only can you satisfy your Japanese food cravings, you can demolish some juicy looking burgers too! Mr Ho firmly believes in innovation to the menu while sourcing for unique ingredients that do not require the slaughter of animals. Good food with ethical business practices? Sign me up.
Website: https://www.herbivore.sg/
Address: 190 Middle Road, #1-13/14, Fortune Centre, 188973
Vegan and vegetarian fare does not have to break the bank. With prices below $10 for dumpling soup, this place at Clarke Quay proves that. Even though they’ve expanded to three other locations, the place still retains its small organic cafe feel. You might have to wait for your order because they make dishes to order. This place also labels their dishes – vegan/gluten-free/wheat-free – so you know exactly what you are ordering.
Website: https://www.realfoodgrocer.com/
Address: 6 Eu Tong Sen Street, #B1-52/53 The Central
Don’t want to give up burgers when going vegan? No problem! With plant protein patties and fresh produce, these vegan alternatives will even have professed meat lovers going back for another visit. The burger patties are pan grilled and combined with artisan whole meal buns, fresh vegetables and mayonnaise that is egg and dairy free. You have to try it to believe it. The best part is that VeganBurg aspires to change the way we eat into something more environmentally sustainable. It is difficult to find tasty and healthy food that does not harm the environment but they manage it perfectly.
Website: https://www.veganburg.com/singapore/
Address: 44 Jalan Eunos
Sometimes, you don’t want plant based patties. Sometimes you just want to sink your teeth into some good old Asian cuisine that combines the perfect amount of sweet, sour and spice. Behold Whole Earth, a restaurant that specialises in Thai and Peranakan cuisine that surprisingly does not include any type of mock meat. The Penang Rendang that is pictured above is actually made of mushrooms. This restaurant has been established since 2013 and as proof that they really know what works, they have even been awarded Michelin Bib Gourmand 2016.
Website: https://wholeearth.com.sg/
Address: 76 Peck Seah Street
Can we forget Indian food when talking about a vegetarian diet? With over a third of India being vegetarian and with such a long heritage, Indian vegetarian food is a must have. Singapore has a great many Indian places to eat at. Annalakshmi works at a pay what you want basis in order embody the idea that no one should be deprived of food. According to Hinduism, a great deed you can do is feeding others so if you want to, you can contribute to another’s meal. Fulfil a great deed while feasting on delicious Indian cuisine.
Website: http://www.annalakshmi.com.sg/
Address: Central Square, #01-04, 20 Havelock Road
Have other vegetarian or vegan places that you love and want to recommend? Tell us all about them!
Written by: Annmaria Patteri
If you’re single, Valentine’s Day can be a chore, especially since you’ll constantly be bombarded with cliché sales tactics, accompanied with a colour scheme you won’t be able to avoid in the weeks leading up to the 14th. But there are a few ways you can cope: Forget about the whole thing and go about your routine as if it were any regular day; wallow in self-pity because you don’t have anyone to be sickeningly cute with; or make the most of your singlehood. There’s really no shortage of things to do if you’re going with the third option. Here are some ideas of how to spend Valentine’s Day when you’re single.
Gather all your single ladies (or bros) and have a night to remember. Bake some chocolatey sweet treats or play some laughter-inducing games aided by a healthy amount of liquid courage. And if you really want to go all out, include a secret Santa-like Valentine’s exchange, taking extra care to personalise their gifts, because we all love receiving our favourite things.
Our work commitments can overwhelm us, taking away what little we have of our precious leisure time. So if you’re looking to spend V Day free of socialisation (the classic Netflix and chill, if you wish), you’re free to do just that. Add in some greasy delivery and while away the day without any unnecessary distractions. Stay away from social media for the next two days too, if you don’t want to wallow in how you spent the day (or if you’re triggered by your friends’ lovey-dovey posts).
If you just feel like spoiling yourself, why not indulge in a full spa and massage treatment? Return to work or school rejuvenated while the rest of your friends lament about how big a hole they burnt in their pockets for love, on arguably the second most expensive holiday, only after Christmas.
While the couples around you partake in yet another love fest (as if their level of PDA depends on the day), you can opt to settle in a quiet corner where you know no one will disturb you, and delve into a book you haven’t had the time to read or re-read your favourite novel. Better yet, you can even enjoy your quiet time with a cup of warm herbal tea from Nilufer Tea. The fragrance of flowers and herbs will make you (almost) forget it's Valentine's Day. After all, self-love is the most important love of all.
Get in a good workout while your friends are out stuffing their faces with too much chocolate for one day. It’ll make you feel better about spending the day alone, since those mood-enhancing endorphins are sure to put you in a euphoric state.
6. Send love someone else’s wayThere are numerous ways to give back to society and this may just be the perfect day to do it. Not everyone has loved ones to care for them, so taking just a few hours out of your day may go a long way for someone who constantly spends it alone.
But if you’re the sort who’s not into grand gestures, a simple one like writing a thank you card to the barista who knows your order by heart, or even a friend who’s been there for you through thick and thin, may just put a spring in their step this Valentine’s Day.
Whatever you decide to do, you shouldn’t have to feel guilty about taking some time out for yourself. Remember, it’s just another day in the calendar year.
Written by: Anna Fernandez
