Low cancer rates, high longevity; the 'secret' tea recipe which is helping people of Hunza Valley in Pakistan live longer

The Hunza Valley, situated in the northern part of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, is a picturesque mountainous region. It follows the course of the Hunza River and is bordered by Ishkoman to the northwest, Shigar to the southeast, the Wakhan Corridor of Afghanistan to the north, and China's Xinjiang region to the northeast. The valley floor is elevated at 2,438 meters (7,999 feet). Geographically , the Hunza Valley is segmented into three distinct areas: Upper Hunza (Gojal), Central Hunza , and Lower Hunza (Shinaki)

Known for longevity
The residents of the valley, breathing clean, fresh air, are known for their longevity, with many villagers living beyond 100 years! Yes, that is true. The rates of chronic illnesses like cancer are extremely low in the valley, which can be attributed to their clean diet, and a special tea, known as Hunza Tea, known for its anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, and immunity-boosting benefits. Here's how you can boil a pot at home, and drink it as and when possible (source: nutritionwithpalaknagpal)

1. In 4 cups of water, add:
•Tulsi leaves: 5-6
•Sri Lankan rolled cinnamon: a pinch
•Ginger: two ¼-inch pieces
•Cardamom (elaichi): 2 pods
2. Bring the water to a boil, then lower the flame. Cover and let it brew for 5-7 minutes.
3. Switch off the flame and let it steep. Strain into a cup.
4. Stir in ½-1 tsp raw, unprocessed jaggery.


How does the tea help?
Increases immunity: Hunza tea, it is said, stimulates the immune system, helping the body fight off infections and illnesses, thus reducing sickness.

Helps in digestion: It's known to improve gestion and ease discomfort, making it an excellent choice for those with digestive issues.

Can help in weight loss: It is said that Hunza tea can aid in weight loss due to its low-calorie content. It also promotes metabolism.

Antioxidant Properties: This tea is rich in antioxidants, which combats oxidative stress, and can reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.

Can help with Skin Conditions: Its anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe skin conditions like acne, eczema , and rosacea.

Combats Arthritis: Some studies suggest it can be helpful for arthritis.

Diabetes control: The tea may be beneficial for those with diabetes.

Can lower blood pressure: Its antioxidant and diuretic properties can lower blood pressure.

Indigestion: Hunza tea can help to provide instant relief from indigestion.

Can better Hemoglobin Level : Hunza tea helps in maintaining the hemoglobin level and iron.

How do Hunza people live that long? Researchers might have some answers
The longevity of people from the valley have attracted researchers from far and wide, and a 2021 study focused on hypertention included 425 people from the village. The study found out that the people of Hunza, given their rough terrain, have to physically do a lot of labour everyday, since the terrain is surrounded with rough passages, steep ridges, which results in long walking journeys, back and forth to their homes everday, and that too multiple times. This in turn, results in excellent cardiovascular health for the residents, that is further amplified by the clean air, leading to healthier lungs, a better immune system and less viruses in the air. This apart, the study also found out that Hunza people:


Ate more plant based food and less meat (though it was unavoidable in winters since fresh produce became scanty)
Smoke less - Only 47 smokers in the group
Physically active
Low obesity rates

How can you adopt a lifestyle of Hunza people?
Though the clean, fresh air plays a huge role in the longevity of the valley residents, along with other factors, you too can stay healthy like them, at least to the best of your capacity. To follow this, you must do the following:

Consume an anti-inflammatory diet
Exercise daily
Prioritize your mental health