Contributed by Harleen Kaur
Introduction
Numerous things can contribute to a persistent cough. The frequency of the cold and cough has increased nowadays, and doctors have observed extended infection episodes. This is particularly prevalent during the winter months with upper and lower respiratory tract illnesses.
It is also irrefutable that the chilly season brings in a number of regular health problems, such as the common cold and cough. an occurrence quite common at this time of the year.
All around us, we can see people coughing and sneezing. The onset of winter particularly makes people more prone to these infections.
Common cold and flu viruses generally enter our bodies through our noses. However, the lining inside our nasal passage has sophisticated defence mechanisms against these microbes.
But, when the temperature drops, the cold air prevents our noses from secreting mucus leading to the virus entering our respiratory system. These viruses prefer colder temperatures, making us prone to the common cold once the temperature drops.
Sometimes your airways may also be irritated by an allergen, pollutant, or toxin in the environment, which would cause a dry cough.
Most of the time, people include medications and steam to get some comfort, but some ayurvedic natural home remedies can also lessen coughing and soothe sore throats. Here we are helping you with some ayurvedic tips to manage cough and cold.
In Ayurveda, Tulsi or Tulasi is known as the Mother Medicine of Nature and The Queen of Herbs. Tulasi leaves boost the body’s natural defences against the common cold and cough.
The growth of infections is slowed down by tulsi since it encourages the development of antibodies. It helps in clearing up the airways.
Daily intake of Tulsi tea has a calming effect and lowers stress.
Due to its ability to regulate the absorption of various nutrients, Tulsi is suggested by many experts in Ayurveda for better health outcomes.
Tulsi tea
- 7 to 10 tulsi leaves
- 2 to 3 cloves
- 2 to 3 cardamom pods
- 300 to 500 ml of water
- Honey (optional)
Recipe:
Put a pan on a high flame after adding water to it. Add tulsi leaves, cloves and cardamom, and let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes. After that, remove the pan from the heat and strain the tea into a cup. For flavour, you can add honey to the tea.
Mulethi
Mulethi, often referred to as Sweetwood, is an aromatic traditional medicinal herb that provides flavour to teas and other liquids. It is commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine and is believed to heal respiratory and digestive issues. Additionally, it is well known for boosting immunity and keeping infections and diseases at bay.
How to prepare Mulethi Kadha?
- Take a few tulsi leaves, 1/4 teaspoon mulethi powder, a pinch of cinnamon powder, and black pepper powder to 1 cup of boiling water and boil the mixture for 5 minutes.
- Add 1 teaspoon of honey after being transferred to a cup.
- Take this kadha twice a day.
Saunth
Saunth or dry ginger powder is known as a nutrition powerhouse that has powerful anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and antioxidant capabilities that help to nourish the throat inside out. Additionally, saunth has been part of long-time traditional ayurvedic use in Ayurved medicines, it is usually consumed in the form of kadha or churan.
How to prepare saunth goli?
- Put 2 to 3 tablespoons of desi ghee in a pan. Lower the flame.
- Add a few teaspoons of jaggery powder and allow it to melt. Add 2 to 3 tablespoons of saunth powder. Mix well.
- Give it some time to settle.
- Make balls that are bite-sized.
Giloy, also known as Amrita or Guduchi in Hindi, is a plant with heart-shaped leaves which resemble betel leaves.
It helps in the treatment of colds and coughs brought on by allergic reactions to polluted air, dust, or smoke. Additionally, it helps in the treatment of colds and tonsillitis. It is also the best herb for boosting immunity which helps keep infections at bay.
Giloy juice
On an empty stomach in the morning, take two tablespoons of Giloy juice with warm water.
Cinnamon
One of the many health advantages of this aromatic woody spice is relief from colds and coughs. It is excellent for sore throats in addition to providing relief from the common cold. It is well known that cinnamon has antiviral properties. This helps in the battle against the common cold virus.
Cinnamon tea
- Make a cup of black tea as usual.
- Add a small amount of cinnamon powder.
- Drink it several times a day
Final thoughts
According to Ayurveda, the universe is made up of the following five elements: Vayu (Air), Jala (Water), Aakash (Space or ether), Prithvi (Earth), and Teja (Fire). These five components, known in Ayurveda as the Pancha Mahabhoota, are said to combine to create the three functional energies in the human body, also known as doshas – Kapha, Vata, Pitta.
Simple home remedies based on Ayurveda not only can be useful in giving you relief in the short term but can also prove to be beneficial in the long run improving your immunity against the common cold and cough.
Trying a few of the above ideas might prove to be beneficial. Keep up your strength with these organic immune boosters that act as prevention methods and could also accelerate recovery. Additionally, you should see a doctor if your infection is persistent or lasts for a longer period of time.
Furthermore, you should also undergo preventive health checkups. These health checkups give a complete report about your health, allowing you to take necessary precautionary measures to improve your well-being and keep a host of ailments at bay.
