India, July 13 -- V iral infections tend to spread rapidly during the monsoon, making it essential to build a strong immune system. Whether you're catching up over drinks with office colleagues or enjoying a weekend party with friends, give your mocktails a healthy twist by including natural, immunity-boosting ingredients. "My go-to option during this time of year is the Monsoon Shield - a zesty, tropical immunity booster made with ginger, basil, orange and lime juice, and passion fruit," says Ravi Patel, executive bartender at The Westin Mumbai Garden City. "Oranges give a vitamin C punch, ginger adds warmth, and lime helps strengthen immunity." You don't need fancy ingredients to create these drinks - several pantry staples work just as well. "Add ginger juice to citrus-based mocktails for its anti-inflammatory properties. It helps fight common colds and throat irritation during the monsoon," says Chandan Roy, food and beverage manager, Courtyard by Marriott, Ranchi. Tulsi is another easy-to-find ingredient - muddle or infuse the leaves to enjoy its antioxidant benefits. It pairs well with pomegranate or apple juice. Mint, known for its cooling and antibacterial properties, is great with lemon, cucumber, or watermelon-based drinks, he adds. Manish Chauhan, head of beverages at Mamma Killa, Delhi, swears by the Nikkei Fizz. "I use galangal, known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities, and lemongrass, which aids digestion, boosts immunity, and helps regulate cholesterol. Ginger further boosts immunity and eases colds and coughs. The drink has a citrus-forward floral base, with a tropical twist of apple and mango sorbet." Citrus fruits are great immunity boosters, thanks to their high vitamin C content - a powerful antioxidant that supports immune cell function. Rajib Maity, restaurant manager at Grand Mercure Bengaluru at Gopalan Mall, shares, "Our Citrus Splash Elixir blends fresh orange and lemon with a touch of honey for natural sweetness and soothing benefits. A pinch of turmeric adds anti-inflammatory power, and the drink is topped off with sparkling water and fresh mint." Don't knock amla till you try it - it's a potent source of vitamin C and excellent for building resistance to colds. "My two go-to drinks during the monsoon are the Golden Rain Tonic - a chilled brew of turmeric, ginger tea, amla juice, tulsi essence and honey - and the Basil Breeze Spritzer, made with lemongrass, tulsi, lemon zest, tonic water and a sprinkle of roasted cumin," says Chef Bidyut Saha, executive chef, Taj Corbett Resort & Spa, Uttarakhand....