The recurring winter cough can be very difficult to deal with as it really disrupts our daily lives. As the common cold becomes more prevalent during the winter, finding ways to alleviate its symptoms becomes necessary. While there's no surefire cure for the common cold, incorporating naturopathic elements into your diet may help ease the discomfort associated with a winter cough.
Foods That May Help Alleviate The Symptoms Of Your Winter Cough
Garlic
Garlic, renowned for its potent antioxidant properties, stands as a potential ally in combating colds. Studies indicate that a garlic supplement can significantly reduce the frequency of colds by up to 63%. Beyond its impact on colds, garlic offers additional health benefits, such as lowering blood pressure and contributing to the prevention of Alzheimer's and dementia.
Ginger
Ayurveda treasures ginger for its effectiveness in treating coughs and colds. Gingerols, its active components, exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. Research suggests that ginger can act as a bronchodilator, easing airway smooth muscle and reducing irritation, coughing, and breathlessness. Ginger can be consumed in various forms, such as herbal teas, freshly extracted juice, or even chewed.
Tulsi
Tulsi, an Ayurvedic herb, has been used for centuries in India for its diverse health benefits. With expectorant properties, tulsi helps expel mucus from the respiratory tract, making it effective for dry coughs. Additionally, its natural antibacterial nature aids in fighting infections.
Also Read: Troubled With Wet Cough? Here Are Simple Home Remedies To Stop Coughing
Fruits and Vegetables
While vitamin C may not be a cure-all, it plays a supportive role in fortifying the immune system. Citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits, lemons, kiwi, strawberries, broccoli, red bell pepper, Brussels sprouts, butternut, cantaloupe, cauliflower, and tomatoes are excellent sources of vitamin C.
Onion Juice
Onions, a common kitchen ingredient, offer therapeutic benefits beyond flavor. Studies indicate that onion extract possesses anti-inflammatory effects, relaxing the trachea and potentially reducing coughing spasms. In Ayurveda, onion juice mixed with honey is recognized as a remedy for dry cough.
Honey
Research suggests that honey may provide relief from a persistent cough, outperforming standard care in some instances. Incorporating a spoonful of honey directly or adding it to a hot beverage, like herbal tea, can effectively suppress coughs and reduce the need for antibiotics.
Hot Fluids
While limited research exists, a study from 2008 suggests that consuming liquids at room temperature or warmer may ease cough, runny nose, and sneezing symptoms. Hot beverages such as clear broths, herbal teas, decaffeinated black tea, warm water, and warm fruit juices can provide immediate relief for sore throat, chills, and fatigue.
Pumpkin Seeds:
Pumpkin seeds, rich in zinc, enhance the function of white blood cells crucial for combating viruses like the flu. Incorporate pumpkin seeds into your diet for a delightful crunch and immune system support.
Turmeric
Turmeric, especially in the form of turmeric milk, is a popular home remedy in India. Curcumin, the key component in turmeric, possesses anti-inflammatory properties, enhancing the immune system and stimulating antibody responses against infections. Adding black pepper to turmeric enhances its therapeutic benefits.
Also Read: Nurturing Comfort: Effective Home Remedies To Cure Your Child's Cough And Cold
Pineapple
Surprisingly, pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme with anti-inflammatory and mucolytic properties. Bromelain aids in breaking down mucus and reducing inflammation, making pineapple an effective choice for alleviating coughs.
Banana Berry Smoothie
The Banana Berry Smoothie combines the richness of bananas with antioxidant-rich berries like strawberries and blueberries. Packed with essential vitamins, this smoothie supports the immune system, reduces cough symptoms, and enhances overall well-being.
As we embrace these naturopathic remedies for winter cough relief, individual responses may vary. For persistent or worsening symptoms, consulting with a healthcare professional is advisable. By incorporating these natural elements into our diet, we can fortify our immune system and ease the discomfort associated with the winter cough.