As I stepped out onto my balcony today morning, I could feel the cool breeze running up my spine, and I felt an immediate urge to pull on my jacket. My neighbor smiled at me, and coughed a little bit. In my mind, I immediately recalled the numerous home remedies for cough that my mother used to suggest when I fell sick. And that is where we began exchanging our thoughts about Ayurvedic medicines for cough and most importantly – the goodness of Ayurvedic herbs. Ayurveda is an age- old medicine system that focuses on overall health. Its ability to prevent and cure diseases makes it a better alternative to modern science. And for people like me who often fall sick to cough or cold, Ayurveda can be a real lifesaver!
It has been believed since long that chilly weather triggers coughs. Having said that, it’s important to know that cold weather isn’t the only reason for it. Persistent cold and cough can also be the sign of a weak immune system or an underlying illness.
Common Causes Of Sore Throat:
- Allergies or respiratory illnesses: Allergic reactions can be caused by almost anything – from fine particles of dust to pollens, pollutants, cigarette smoke and strange odour. They are a direct result of an overactive immunity and can trigger a coughing fit.
- Acid reflux: It is something that happens when the stomach juices flow backwards to the throat, irritating the windpipe and causing soreness.
- Bacteria or Virus infection: This is probably the most common cause for cough. The air we breathe contains many microbes that can enter our lungs. They may attack the immune cells and give you flu, bronchitis, fever etc.
- Postnasal drip: This occurs when the mucus drips back from the nose into the throat. It might lead to severe coughing and throat irritation.
- Miscellaneous causes: Situations like food getting stuck in the throat, sleep apnea etc. can also lead to incessant coughing, which may become dangerous if not treated in time.
Although many medicines for cough are available over the counter, it’s always good to have a few easy tips up your sleeve. These effective home remedies for cough and cold use various Ayurvedic herbs that can cure you with minimal risks of side effects:
- Honey: A tried and tested health tonic, honey soothes the irritated throat and helps to control coughing. Its soothing nature makes it a wonderful home remedy for dry cough. It can effectively clear any persistent irritation or congestion in the throat. You can mix it with warm water and a few drops of lemon juice to make a delicious post workout detox drink. Furthermore, honey is one of the most excellent home remedies for cough for kids too. But it is best avoided for kids below 1 year of age.
- Probiotics: Although it doesn’t directly help to treat the cough, one cup of curd can help to strengthen your immune system and curb the throat soreness. As a bonus, it can keep your gut healthy as well!
- Basil: Tulasi (Holy Basil) leaves or powder mixed with honey work wonders as a home remedy for cough.
- Turmeric: This is a magical spice that has found its way into almost all kitchens across the globe. Besides its flavor, it is also an effective home remedy for dry cough. Turmeric is a bright yellow colored spice that gets its therapeutic qualities from curcumin. When mixed with black pepper, its ability to treat cough increases drastically. It can also be consumed with ginger and milk, as a turmeric latte.
- Ginger: Ginger tea mixed with Basil and honey can help to soothe your irritated throat and reduce fever. It can be an excellent home remedy for cough for kids too.
- Marshmallow root: This herb is commonly used in cough medicines and throat lozenges. It has antibacterial properties and soothes the inflamed respiratory tract muscles.
- Peppermint: It numbs the irritated nerve endings in the throat. This provides immediate pain relief and clears the voice quality.
- Lemon: A few drops of lemon juice mixed with honey can make a homemade cough syrup. Lemon has a soothing action on sore throats. It is an essential ingredient of lozenges and a wonderful immunity booster.
- Masala tea: It contains a number of spices, like Ginger, Clove, Cinnamon, Black Pepper etc. that have an anti-inflammatory effect. They also boost production of white blood cells too.
- Chicken soup: A broth loved by everyone, and recommended by all doctors! Chicken soup is an effective home remedy for cough for kids as it reduces the itchiness, congestion and soreness of throat.
- Chilli Peppers: They’re known to reduce coughing. But make sure to use them in a regulated amount depending on what suits you.
- Essential oils: Aromatherapy can be very beneficial to treat dry throat. Essential oils like eucalyptus oil can speed up your recovery and help you relax in the cold wintry nights.
- Steam inhalation: Steam helps to loosen the mucus and unclog the lungs. It can be an effective home remedy for cough for kids as well. Be careful to keep them at a proper distance so they aren’t scalded.
- Humidification: In case your internal home ventilation is too dry, using a humidifier can play a vital role in providing relief against dry cough.
- Keep the head elevated: One of the tried and tested home remedies for dry cough at night. Put a few pillows under your head while you sleep. It can prevent the mucus from trickling down into the throat, thereby reducing cough.
- Air purifier: This can be a good way to prevent and cure seasonal cough. Air purifiers can help purify the air of potential allergens and prevent your cough from getting worse. This is extremely helpful for children who are very young and dependent on either breastmilk or baby food.
- Salt water gargle: It can help provide pain relief, lessen the irritation and soothe the parched throat. Take a spoonful of salt in a cup of warm water and use it to gargle multiple times in a day. It can work as a remedy for children above 6 years of age too.
- Thyme: A great addition to your herbal tea, thyme can be of great help if you are struggling with a cough caused by bronchitis.
- Warm oil massage: Take a few crushed garlic pods and mix them in warm mustard oil. Gently apply it on the throat, chest and back. It can help to loosen the mucus.
Having a cough or cold is a sign that your body’s immune system is fighting against the disease. But you may need to strengthen your immune defense for a quick recovery. Remembering these handy tips can help you protect yourself.