With the monsoon winding down and winter moving in, colder weather will arrive soon, making us more prone to catching the flu or common cold. Given the sudden change in weather from damp to cold air, it is a good practice to manage one’s respiratory health effectively. Re-emphasizing the importance of health measures you can take during this time, the Ministry of AYUSH recommended a list of self-care guidelines to boost immunity, with special reference to respiratory health. These include practicing steam inhalation with fresh Pudina (Mint) leaves or Ajwain (Caraway seeds) to provide the body with much-needed warmth and help in soothing the system. It also highlights how consuming antioxidant-rich Haldi milk, and practicing Yoga can help balance overall health.
During cold months, health is a priority. With this in mind, it is important to identify the six important seasonal flu symptoms- breathing difficulty, body ache, cough, blocked nose, headache & muscular stiffness early on. With doctor visits moving online given the limited access, opting for expert-approved measures will help as the first line of treatment to provide faster relief from cough and blocked nose.
Speaking on the subject, Dr. Kunal Manek, Ayurveda Consultant, and Panchakarma Physician, said, “Winter season is approaching, and for the next few months, with the temperature drop, the cold dry winds air can make us more susceptible to cold and flu. Strengthening our body’s natural defense against constant change in temperatures is the best way to manage our health. Steam inhalation, as a practice not only provides warmth but also clears the nasal passage and helps you manage cold and cough symptoms common during cold climate conditions. Regular steam inhalation with ayurvedic ingredients like Pudina (Mint) leaves and Ajwain (Caraway seeds), will aid in soothing dry cough and blocked nose. You can also use a medicated rub, which contains Pudina, Ajwain, Kapoor & Nilgiri to help relieve cough and cold symptoms.”
