When you’ve caught a cough and cold, there are several things you can do to help alleviate your symptoms and recover more quickly. Keep in mind that while these suggestions can provide relief, they are not a substitute for professional medical advice. If your symptoms are severe or persist for an extended period, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider. Here are some steps I used to do when I caught a cold and cough. I get a red nose during seasonal changes and these steps can help to cure as well prevent them. Let’s start!
STEPS:
- Rest: Get plenty of rest to allow your body to recover. Avoid strenuous activities that may weaken your immune system. But yo! that does not mean scrolling social media endlessly. Rather listen to music, podcast or your fav audiobook.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink lots of fluids, such as water, herbal teas, clear broths, and electrolyte solutions, to prevent dehydration. Staying hydrated helps thin mucus and soothes your throat. You can use applications to set reminders at regular intervals.
- Gargle with Salt Water: Gargling with warm salt water can help soothe a sore throat and reduce throat irritation. Try to gargle with full glass of water, each sip for 5-10 secs.
- Hot Showers or Steam Inhalation: Inhaling steam from a hot shower or a bowl of hot water can temporarily relieve nasal congestion and ease breathing.
- Eat Nutritious Foods: Maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to support your immune system. Foods with vitamin C, such as citrus fruits, can be particularly beneficial.
- Get Plenty of Sleep: Adequate sleep is essential for a strong immune system and faster recovery.
- Consider Herbal Remedies: Some people find relief from cough and cold symptoms with herbal remedies like honey, ginger tea.
Here is a Herbal Remedy in hindi, we say ‘Kaadha’ which my granny used to make for me and my whole family. I hope that this will ease you as how it aids me when I’m sick…..
Ayurvedic Kaadha, also known as herbal tea or decoction, is a traditional Indian remedy for cough and cold. It’s made by simmering a combination of herbs and spices in water to extract their medicinal properties. Ayurvedic kaadha can help relieve symptoms, boost your immune system, and promote overall well-being. Here’s a basic recipe for an Ayurvedic kaadha for cough and cold:
Ingredients:
- Water: 2-3 cups
- Fresh Ginger: 1-2 inches piece, sliced or grated
- Tulsi (Holy Basil) Leaves: A handful of fresh leaves or 1-2 teaspoons of dried tulsi leaves
- Black Pepper: 4-5 whole peppercorns
- Cinnamon: 1 small piece or a pinch of cinnamon powder
- Cloves: 2-3 cloves
- Cardamom: 2-3 pods (lightly crushed)
- Turmeric: A small pinch of turmeric powder (optional)
- Honey: 1-2 teaspoons (optional, for sweetness)
Instructions:
- Boil Water: In a saucepan, add the water and bring it to a boil.
- Add Spices and Herbs: Once the water is boiling, add all the herbs and spices (ginger, tulsi leaves, black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, and turmeric if using).
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let the mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the herbs and spices to infuse into the water.
- Strain: After simmering, strain the Kaadha
- Strain: After simmering, strain the Kaadha to remove the solid particles. You should be left with a flavorful herbal liquid.
- Sweeten (optional): If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can add honey to the Kaadha. Honey also has its own soothing properties for a sore throat. Wait until the liquid is lukewarm. Only then, add honey, preferably 1-2 teaspoons.
- Sip Warm: Drink the Kaadha (ayurvedic herbal tea) while it’s still warm. You can have it 2-3 times a day, for first few days of your sickness, then reduce it to once per day, for relief from cough and cold symptoms. Enjoy every warm, strong sip, going down through your throat.
Notes:
- Adjust the quantities of herbs and spices according to your taste and preferences. Some people prefer a stronger or milder flavor.
- Be cautious with turmeric, as it has a strong flavor and can dominate the taste. Use it sparingly if you’re not accustomed to its taste.
- Tulsi (Holy Basil) is a key ingredient in Ayurvedic Kaadha and is known for its immune-boosting and antibacterial properties. It’s readily available in Indian stores and some health food stores. Best if you have it freshly grown in your garden.
- This Kaadha( ayurvedic herbal tea) is intended to be a complementary remedy for mild to moderate coughs and colds. If your symptoms worsen or persist, or if you have underlying health conditions, consult a healthcare professional.
Please note: Ayurvedic remedies are generally safe, but if you have any medical concerns or are pregnant or nursing, it’s best to consult with a healthcare provider before using them.
Easy!! These steps are useful to improve your overall health as well. Remember, if you are sick for a long time, please consult to a doctor.
