Breathe Easy This Monsoon with Natural Home Cures
The monsoon season in India ushers in long-awaited rain, cooler temperatures—and an uptick in seasonal illnesses like cold and cough. It’s common to hear someone at home coughing or sneezing during the damp and humid weather.
Instead of reaching for antibiotics or over-the-counter syrups, many people are turning back to Ayurveda’s time-tested remedies handed down through generations. These natural home cures not only help relieve cold symptoms, but also boost immunity against seasonal ailments.
Here are the most effective Ayurvedic remedies for cold and cough that actually work.
1. Turmeric Milk (Haldi Doodh)
A Golden Elixir to Soothe Sore Throats
Turmeric milk is a classic Ayurvedic remedy for sore throats, dry coughs, and nasal congestion. Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory spice, and its active compound curcumin helps fight off infections.
How to Make:
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Heat 1 cup of milk
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Add ½ teaspoon of turmeric powder
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Stir well and simmer for 2–3 minutes
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Drink warm before bedtime
This remedy can help relieve throat irritation and promote better sleep.
2. Mulethi Tea (Licorice Root)
Soothes the Throat and Reduces Inflammation
Mulethi (licorice root) is widely known in Ayurveda for its soothing effect on the respiratory system.
How to Make:
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Boil 2 sticks of mulethi in 2 cups of water
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Add crushed ginger and cinnamon for added healing
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Simmer for 10 minutes and strain
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Sip warm 2–3 times a day
This herbal tea relaxes throat muscles, reduces mucus, and clears congestion.
3. Honey and Cinnamon
Natural Antiseptics to Fight Infection
Both honey and cinnamon have antimicrobial properties that boost immunity, soothe sore throats, and reduce inflammation.
How to Use:
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Mix 1 tsp raw honey with ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
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Consume directly or add to warm water as a soothing drink
Note: Do not give honey to children younger than 1 year.
4. Kadha (Herbal Concoction)
The Traditional Indian Immunity Booster
Kadha is perhaps the most trusted Ayurvedic drink for cough and cold. It’s a concentrated blend of herbs and spices that warms the body and enhances immunity.
How to Make:
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Boil 2 cups of water
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Add cloves, black pepper, ginger, cinnamon, and tulsi leaves
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Simmer until reduced to 1 cup
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Strain and stir in 1 tsp of honey
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Drink warm 1–2 times daily
Kadha helps expel mucus, relieve body aches, and improve resistance to infections.
5. Tulsi Leaves (Holy Basil)
Nature’s Immunity Herb
Tulsi is revered in Indian households as a sacred plant and an effective remedy for colds, coughs, and fever.
How to Use:
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Chew 4–5 fresh tulsi leaves in the morning
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Alternatively, boil them in water to make tulsi tea
Tulsi has antibacterial and antioxidant properties that protect against respiratory infections and clear nasal passages.
6. Inhalation Therapy with Medicinal Herbs
Steam Inhalation to Unclog the Airways
Inhaling steam infused with mint or eucalyptus oil can provide quick relief from blocked sinuses and nasal congestion.
How to Do:
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Boil water and add a few drops of eucalyptus oil, or fresh mint leaves
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Cover your head with a towel and inhale the steam for 5–7 minutes
Repeat twice daily for best results. This therapy clears mucus and reduces nasal inflammation.
Additional Tips to Prevent Seasonal Cold and Cough
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Stay hydrated: Drink warm water throughout the day
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Avoid cold or refrigerated items during the rainy season
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Keep your feet warm and dry to reduce chances of catching a cold
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Practice yoga and pranayama to strengthen your lungs and respiratory system
Final Thoughts: Trust Nature for Lasting Relief
Instead of relying solely on chemical-based remedies, embracing Ayurveda for cold and cough can make a significant difference. These natural, easily available, and side-effect-free remedies are not just effective; they also help you build immunity for future seasons.
So next time you feel the first signs of a cough or cold, head to your kitchen instead of the pharmacy—your healing might be just a cup of kadha away!