Are you tired of taking medicines to cure cough but are still trying to get over it? Coughing, a common ailment can be caused by various factors, such as allergies, infections, irritants, or even cold weather. One of the natural remedies that is known for providing relief due to its potent health benefits is harad. It offers natural and effective relief from cough symptoms while promoting respiratory health. We spoke to Dr Ganesh Chaudhary, Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS), PHC, Darbhanga, Bihar, who listed the benefits of consuming harad for treating cough.
Benefits of Harad for Cough
According to StatPearls, coughing is a natural, primal reaction that helps the body's immune system defend against invaders. It is one of the most frequent medical complaints and represents up to 30 million clinical visits annually.
Harad is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, making it a potent natural remedy for a wide range of health issues, including cough and respiratory ailments. It offers several therapeutic properties that make it effective in relieving cough symptoms and promoting respiratory health. Dr Chaudhary listed some of the benefits as follows:
- Expectorant Properties: Harad is a natural expectorant that helps to loosen and expel mucus from the respiratory tract, providing relief from chest congestion and coughing.
- Anti-inflammatory Effects: Harad possesses anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation in the throat and airways, soothing irritation and discomfort associated with coughing.
- Antimicrobial Activity: Harad exhibits antimicrobial properties, which can help combat bacterial and viral infections that may contribute to cough symptoms.
- Respiratory Tonic: Harad is considered a respiratory tonic in ayurvedic medicine, helping to strengthen the lungs and improve overall respiratory function.
How to Use Harad for Cough Relief
Here are a few simple methods of using harad that can help in cough relief, as listed by the expert:
Harad Decoction
- Boil 1-2 teaspoons of dried Harad powder in a cup of water
- Simmer for 10-15 minutes, then strain the decoction
- Drink the warm decoction 2-3 times a day to help alleviate cough symptoms and promote respiratory health
Harad Honey Syrup
- Mix equal parts of Harad powder and honey to form a thick paste
- Take 1-2 teaspoons of the Harad honey mixture as needed to soothe cough and throat irritation
Harad Tea
- Steep 1 teaspoon of Harad powder in a cup of hot water for 5-10 minutes
- Strain the tea and drink it warm with a touch of honey for added sweetness and throat-soothing properties
Harad Steam Inhalation
- Add a few teaspoons of Harad powder to a bowl of hot water
- Cover your head with a towel and inhale the steam for 5-10 minutes to help loosen mucus and relieve congestion
Precautions and Considerations
Dr Chaudhary added, “Harad is generally considered safe for most people. However, it's important to exercise caution and seek advice from a healthcare professional before using it, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are pregnant or breastfeeding.”
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your expert if the cough persists for a longer time to seek necessary measures.]