Catching a cold is never a pleasant experience, especially when it comes with symptoms like a running nose, stuffy nose, and watery eyes. It can make you feel feverish and uncomfortable. Fortunately, there are several excellent natural remedies that can provide instant relief from these symptoms.
In this blog, we will explore some effective ways to cure cold and cough using readily available ingredients found in every household.
Combination of Black Pepper, Pan, and Tulsi:
One of the most effective remedies for cold and cough is a combination of black pepper, pan, and tulsi. Boil these ingredients in water for about 10 minutes, strain the mixture, and drink it. If the taste is too pungent, you can add some jaggery to sweeten it. Consuming this liquid twice a day can provide significant relief. Black pepper has anti-inflammatory properties, while tulsi and pan can boost the production of antibodies, making this combination an excellent defense against cold and cough.
Ginger Juice, Honey, and Haldi:
Another effective remedy is a mixture of ginger juice, honey, and haldi (turmeric). Simply mix a spoonful of honey with a few drops of fresh ginger juice and some haldi. Sip this mixture slowly to soothe your throat. Honey has a calming effect on the throat, while haldi boosts immunity. This combination is known to be highly effective in treating cold and cough.
Jaggery, Ginger Powder, and Turmeric Laddu:
If you have a sore throat and dry cough, making laddu out of jaggery, ginger powder, and turmeric can provide relief. Make a paste out of jaggery and add a little turmeric and ginger powder. Roll it into small laddus (balls) and consume them. If your throat is particularly sore, you can add some ghee to the laddu for added relief. Suck on the laddu slowly and chew it to alleviate your symptoms. This combination is especially effective for dry cough and cold.
Salt Water Gargling:
According to yoga principles, gargling with salt water can help loosen up mucus and provide relief for cold and cough symptoms. Mix some salt in warm water and gargle with it. You can also add haldi to the mixture for added benefits. Gargling with salt water multiple times a day can help alleviate nasal and throat problems caused by cold and cough.
Use of Warm Water:
Drinking warm water regularly can help flush out toxins from your system and provide a soothing effect to your body. Warm water is known to be beneficial for overall health and can be a simple yet effective remedy for cold and cough. Drinking warm water every hour can help you handle your symptoms better.
Preventive Measures:
While these remedies can provide immediate relief, it’s important to address the root cause of your cold and cough to prevent future occurrences. Here are some common mistakes people make that can lead to cold and cough:
1. Sitting Under the Fan:
Sitting directly under a fan can expose your head to cold air, which can disturb your sinuses and lead to a runny nose and sore throat. It’s best to avoid sitting directly under a fan. If you must use a fan, set it to a slower speed and ensure the room is well-ventilated. When sleeping with a fan, cover your head and ears with a scarf to protect yourself from cold air.
2. Taking Bath Immediately After Waking Up:
Instead of taking a bath immediately after waking up, it’s advisable to do some exercises or asanas, drink warm water, and complete your morning routine before bathing. This helps your body warm up and prevents the sudden exposure to cold water, which can trigger cold and cough symptoms.
3. Eating Frozen Food and Drinking Cold Drinks:
Consuming cold drinks and frozen food can irritate your digestive system and lead to cold and cough symptoms. Cold drinks affect the lining of your stomach and can cause discomfort. It’s best to avoid frozen food altogether. If you need to refrigerate food, make sure to remove it at least an hour before consuming to allow it to come to room temperature.
4. Not Drying Your Hair After Bath:
Leaving your hair wet after a bath can directly affect your sinuses and make you more susceptible to cold and cough. Always ensure your hair is dry, especially if you tend to sweat a lot. Use a towel to dry your hair thoroughly.
5. Constipation:
Constipation is often the root cause of many health issues, including cold and cough. Ensure that your digestive system is functioning properly by consuming sufficient fruits and vegetables to promote healthy bowel movements. Fruits like papaya and chikoos can help regulate your digestive system and prevent constipation.
Conclusion:
While these remedies can provide immediate relief from cold and cough symptoms, it’s crucial to address the underlying causes to prevent future occurrences. Taking preventive measures such as avoiding sitting directly under a fan, practicing proper bathing routines, avoiding frozen food and cold drinks, drying your hair after a bath, and maintaining healthy digestion can help you stay healthy and avoid cold and cough. Remember, prevention is always better than cure. Take care of yourself, stay healthy, and enjoy a cold-free life.
