Ditch those over the counter cough syrups for these natural and herbal home remedies to fight those nasty and irritating cold and cough. These have been used since ages in India. Many of our Mom’s and grandmothers still prefer these “Kitchen-based” medicines as there are very little or no side effects but the benefits are too many.
Home Remedies for Cold and Cough
Here are different types of home remedies you can try for cold and cough.
1. Steam:
Simply heat water in a wide bowl add few drops of eucalyptus oil and inhale the hot fumes for at least 10 to 15 minutes while covering yourself and the bowl with a towel to prevent the fumes from escaping.
2. Honey:
Honey is known for its soothing effect and other anti-microbial activities. Mix a spoonful of honey with cinnamon powder and have thrice for 2 days.
3. Garlic:
Garlic is completely packed with antioxidants and is perfect remedy against cough and cold. If you have a cough and cold, take about 4 to 5 cloves of garlic, crush lightly which releases allicin, a compound present in garlic; and sauté it in a little ghee.
4. Turmeric Milk:
The best way and most effective way to use turmeric is as soon as you feel a scratchy sensation in your throat. The easiest way to use turmeric is as Turmeric milk. To make this drink take 2 teaspoons of haldi and add it to a glass of milk. Now boil the mixture and drink it while it is still hot. You can add some honey to the mixture too, in order to sweeten the drink and add to its antibacterial and antiviral properties.
5. Masala Chai:
The ever-green and favourite Indian beverage- Masala chai is one of the most preferred home remedy to treat cold and cough. The “masala” contains cardamom, black peppers, ginger, cinnamon, tulsi and cloves all these are very effective against cold and cough. Combined with anti-oxidant properties of tea- Masala Chai makes for an amazing drink for Monsoon and winter months.
By: Archa Dave
