Each year, the persistent winter cough seems to return, lingering longer than desired. During the winter season, the common cold runs uncontrolled, affecting a majority of people. This mild viral infection targets the nose, airways, throat, and sinuses, leading to symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, fatigue, sore throat, and coughing. Although no definitive cure exists for the common cold, this guide aims to assist in relieving the symptoms associated with winter coughs.
Also Read: Aachu! Bless Yourself With Ayurveda: Fight Cold, Cough And Allergies
Why do I get a dry cough every winter?
While it’s possible to catch a cold at any time of the year, the likelihood of falling ill during winter is notably higher. It’s not that the virus becomes more potent or contagious during winter, but several factors contribute to an increased risk of catching a cough or cold.
As temperatures drop, people tend to spend more time indoors, particularly in close-knit environments like schools and offices, which provide ideal conditions for the spread of colds. Throughout the winter, children, who are often in close contact with one another at school, can quickly spread the common cold, subsequently passing it on to their parents and others.
Furthermore, the dryness of cold air facilitates the spread of the common cold, as the virus survives longer in low-temperature, low-humidity environments. The dry air also affects our nasal passages, making it easier for the cold virus to take hold and causing more severe illness during winter compared to the warmer summer months.
As the winter season approaches, many of us are prone to experiencing a dry cough. This persistent and irritating cough can be quite uncomfortable and can affect our daily lives. In this blog post, we will explore the symptoms and causes of dry cough, as well as the Ayurvedic perspective on this common winter ailment. Also, we will provide some Ayurvedic home remedies to help provide relief from dry cough.
Also Read: How to Cure a Cold and Cough with Ayurveda?
Ayurvedic Perspective on Dry Cough during Winter
According to Ayurveda, dry cough is often caused by an imbalance in the Vata and Kapha doshas. The dry and cold qualities of Vata can lead to dryness in the respiratory passages, while the excessive mucus production associated with Kapha can also contribute to coughing. Also, the accumulation of toxins in the body, known as ama, can further exacerbate the symptoms of dry cough.
Symptoms of Dry Cough
A dry cough is characterized by a persistent cough that does not produce any mucus or phlegm. It can be accompanied by:
- A tickling sensation in the throat
- Hoarseness
- A feeling of irritation in the chest
The cough may worsen at night and can lead to sleep disturbances and fatigue.
Causes of Dry Cough
Several factors can contribute to the development of a dry cough during the winter months:
- Dry air, both indoors and outdoors, can irritate the respiratory passages and lead to coughing. Also, viral infections such as the common cold and flu are more prevalent during the winter, which can also trigger a dry cough.
- Other factors such as allergies, smoking, and air pollution can also contribute to the development of a dry cough.
Also Read: Ayurvedic Natural Solutions For Viral Fever
Ayurvedic Home Remedies for Relief from Dry Cough
Ayurveda offers a holistic approach to managing dry cough, focusing on balancing the doshas and promoting overall health and well-being. Here are some Ayurvedic home remedies that can help provide relief from dry cough:
1. Homemade Natural Dry Cough Syrup
- Fresh turmeric juice 1 tsp
- Fresh garlic juice ¼ tsp
- Fresh ginger juice ½ tsp
- Fresh Basil (Tulsi) juice 1 ½ tsp
- Fresh Adulsa leaves (Vasaka) juice 1 ½ tsp (optional ingredient)
- Honey 3 tsp
- Black pepper powder 1 pinch
Mix all ingredients very well and take 2 tsp three to four times a day. For better effectiveness make it fresh and immediately consume it.
2. Try this Tea for Effective Relief from Cough and Cold
-
- Black pepper crushed 2 corns
- Fresh ginger crushed ¼ tspBasil leaves crushed 8
- Cardamoms 2
- Water 1 cup
- Turmeric powder ½ tsp
- Cloves 2
- Mint leaves 5
- Honey 1 tsp
3. Gargling with Salt Water:
Gargling with warm salt water can help soothe a sore throat and reduce irritation, providing relief from a dry cough.
4. Home Remedy for Dry Cough Accompanied by Constipation:
Drink one teaspoon of Castor oil with warm ginger water before going to bed.
5. Herbal Anti-Cough Remedy:
- Licorice (Yastimadu) powder 1 tsp
- Ginger powder ¼ tsp
- Pipali (Piper Longum) powder ¼ tsp
- Black pepper powder ¼ tsp
- Honey 1 tsp
Mix all ingredients well and take two to three times a day.
Also Read: Cold and Cough Caught You OFF GUARD this Monsoon?
If you are experiencing persistent dry cough during the winter months, it may be beneficial to seek the guidance of an Ayurvedic practitioner. Ayushakti Ayurved offers personalized consultations and plans to address a wide range of health concerns, including dry cough. Our experienced Ayurvedic doctors can provide a comprehensive assessment of your health and offer natural and effective remedies to help alleviate your symptoms.
To book an appointment with Ayushakti Ayurved, visit our website or contact us directly. Take the first step towards achieving optimal health and well-being with Ayurveda.
In conclusion, dry cough during winter can be quite bothersome, but with the help of Ayurveda, relief is within reach. By understanding the symptoms and causes of dry cough, as well as incorporating Ayurvedic home remedies into your daily routine, you can effectively
manage and alleviate your symptoms. Don’t let dry cough disrupt your winter season – seek the support of Ayushakti Ayurved and experience the healing power of Ayurveda.
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Blog Author: Dr Rajeshree Mehta
Expert Review: Dr Smita Pankaj Naram
Co-Founder, Ayushakti Ayurved Pvt Ltd
Disclaimer: This blog is for educational purposes only. Please consult an Ayurvedic practitioner before trying or consuming any medicines, home remedies or treatments mentioned in this blog. The information provided is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.