What are the Indian Home Remedies for Cold and Sneezing?
February 9, 2024 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
In Indian households, various natural remedies are often used to alleviate cold symptoms and reduce sneezing. Here are some Indian home remedies that may help:
- Turmeric Milk (Haldi Doodh): Turmeric contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Mixing a teaspoon of turmeric powder in a glass of warm milk and drinking it before bedtime may help soothe a sore throat and alleviate cold symptoms.
- Ginger Tea (Adrak Chai): Ginger is known for its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties. Prepare ginger tea by boiling crushed ginger slices in water for a few minutes. Add honey and lemon juice for added benefits and flavor. Drinking ginger tea several times a day may help relieve congestion and reduce sneezing.
- Garlic (Lahsun): Garlic has antimicrobial properties that can help fight off infections and reduce cold symptoms. Consuming raw garlic cloves or adding crushed garlic to meals may help boost the immune system and alleviate cold symptoms.
- Steam Inhalation: Inhaling steam can help clear nasal congestion and reduce sneezing. Boil water in a large pot, remove from heat, and add a few drops of eucalyptus or peppermint oil. Drape a towel over your head and lean over the pot, inhaling the steam for 5-10 minutes. Be cautious to avoid burns.
- Honey and Pepper (Shahad aur Kali Mirch): A mixture of honey and black pepper is believed to have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Mix a teaspoon of honey with a pinch of black pepper powder and consume it several times a day to alleviate cold symptoms.
- Tulsi (Holy Basil) Tea: Tulsi leaves have antimicrobial and immune-boosting properties. Prepare tulsi tea by boiling fresh tulsi leaves in water for a few minutes. Strain the tea, add honey if desired, and drink it warm. Tulsi tea may help relieve cold symptoms and reduce sneezing.
- Warm Salt Water Gargle: Gargling with warm salt water can help soothe a sore throat and reduce irritation. Mix a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and gargle with it several times a day to alleviate cold symptoms.
- Hot Soups and Broths: Consuming hot soups and broths made with immune-boosting ingredients like vegetables, herbs, and spices can provide relief from cold symptoms and reduce sneezing. Include ingredients like garlic, ginger, turmeric, and black pepper for added benefits.
- Nasal Irrigation (Jala Neti): Nasal irrigation with saline solution can help clear nasal passages and reduce sneezing. Use a neti pot or nasal spray bottle to irrigate the nostrils with a saline solution made of warm water and salt. Follow proper instructions to ensure safe and effective nasal irrigation.
- Rest and Hydration: Getting plenty of rest and staying hydrated are essential for the body to recover from a cold. Drink plenty of water, herbal teas, and warm fluids to stay hydrated, and get adequate rest to support the immune system in fighting off the infection.
These Indian home remedies for cold and sneezing are often used to alleviate symptoms and promote faster recovery. However, if cold symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment, especially if there are underlying health conditions or complications.