Ayurvedic Medicine For Common Cold (2024)

Ayurvedic medicine offers a holistic approach to addressing the common cold, providing remedies that not only alleviate symptoms but also work towards restoring balance within the body. Emphasizing the principles of Ayurveda, these remedies aim to pacify the aggravated doshas, particularly Vata and Kapha, which play a role in cold-related discomfort. Common Ayurvedic remedies include herbal formulations with ingredients like ginger, tulsi (holy basil), and turmeric, known for their anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. Steam inhalation with herbal decoctions, warm teas, and dietary recommendations tailored to balance the doshas contribute to a comprehensive approach in managing and preventing the common cold through Ayurvedic medicine. The emphasis on harmony between the body, mind, and spirit distinguishes Ayurveda in its approach to providing relief and promoting overall well-being during cold episodes.

Table of Contents

What is Common Cold?

The common cold is a very common sickness caused by viruses like the Rhinovirus or Influenza A. These viruses affect the throat, nose, and lungs, leading to symptoms like a runny nose, cough, and sneezing. It’s not the same as the stomach “flu” that causes vomiting and diarrhea. Most people recover from the common cold, but some, especially those in certain groups, can have more severe symptoms. These high-risk groups include:

Infants: Especially those who are 12 months old or younger.

Pregnant women: Especially during the flu season or right after giving birth.

Adults aged 65 and older: Older adults are more at risk.

People in crowded places: Those who work or live in busy and crowded areas.

Residents of assisted living facilities: Like nurses or those in camps. They are more susceptible to complications from the common cold.

Ayurvedic Perspective of Common Cold

Ayurvedic system sees the common cold as a disturbance in the body’s energy balance. Unlike regular medicine that mainly treats the symptoms, Ayurvedic remedies aim to restore balance to prevent future illnesses.

According to Ayurvedic beliefs, a common cold is called pratysyaya. Ayurveda customizes treatments based on the specific symptoms shown by each person while also boosting immunity (ojas). When a cold happens, it suggests a decrease in ojas, indicating a departure from living in harmony with our natural state. Looking at it this way, a cold, like any other symptom, is the body’s way of expressing imbalance, encouraging us to pay attention and make positive changes.

Ayurvedic Dosha Connections of Common Cold

Vata is one of the three doshas in ayurvedic system, and when it’s imbalanced, it can cause cold-like symptoms. Vata’s characteristics are often associated with the wind, and an imbalance may result in respiratory issues. People with a Vata imbalance might experience a dry cough, similar to leaves rustling in the wind. This dryness can also lead to a scratchy throat and a raw feeling. The restlessness of Vata may disrupt sleep, causing insomnia or fragmented sleep patterns. Additionally, the cold and unpredictable nature of Vata can bring about chills and an overall sensation of feeling ungrounded or “spaced out.”

Pitta, another dosha, is characterized by its fiery and intense nature. When Pitta is imbalanced, it can elevate body temperature, leading to symptoms that feel intensely hot. A fever, which is the body’s response to fighting infections, is a common sign of a Pitta imbalance during a cold. This internal heat can also result in a sore and inflamed throat, causing discomfort and pain. Emotional symptoms such as irritability and frustration, associated with a Pitta imbalance, may also arise, contributing to heightened agitation. The intensity is not limited to the body; the mind may also experience heated, short-tempered thoughts.

Kapha, the third dosha, represents earth and water elements and serves as the stabilizing force in the body. However, when Kapha becomes excessive, it can lead to energy stagnation and an accumulation of mucus, resulting in congestion and a productive cough as the body tries to expel excess mucus. The substantial nature of Kapha can induce feelings of lethargy, making it challenging to get out of bed or find the energy for daily tasks. This sluggishness extends mentally, causing a cloud of fog that hinders clear thinking and alertness.

Symptoms Of Common Cold

When you catch a Rhinovirus, which is what causes the common cold, you’ll start to notice certain signs and symptoms. These are things you can see or feel that show you might have a cold. Even though people experience these symptoms differently, it’s rare for the common cold to be very serious or deadly.

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Here are some common signs and symptoms:

Feeling hot or having chills

Having a headache

Having a sore throat

Having a runny or stuffy nose

Feeling pain in your body and muscles

Feeling very tired

Sometimes throwing up

Sometimes having diarrhea

It’s important to remember that not everyone with a Rhinovirus infection will have a fever.

Cause Of Common Cold

Main Cause of Common Cold:

The main reason people get the common cold is usually a virus called the rhinovirus.

How it Spreads through Air:

When someone who is sick with the virus coughs or sneezes, tiny droplets containing the virus can float in the air. If others breathe in these droplets, they can catch the cold.

Spread through Direct Contact:

You can also get the cold by touching your mouth, nose, or eyes after touching something with the virus on it. This is why it’s important not to touch your face with unwashed hands.

Touching Contaminated Surfaces:

The virus can stick to surfaces that an infected person has touched, like doorknobs or toys. If you touch these surfaces and then touch your face, you might get the cold.

Ayurvedic Medicine For Common cold

Ayurvedic system, a traditional system of medicine, offers home remedies for common colds that are easy to incorporate into daily routines.

Kashaya Powder

Kashaya Powder is an Ayurvedic remedy that has proven to be effective in relieving allergy symptoms and providing comfort to individuals dealing with various allergic conditions. By incorporating this traditional remedy into your routine, you may experience relief from allergy-related issues.

Liquorice Root Powder

Liquorice Root Powder is highly regarded in Ayurvedic medicine for its benefits in alleviating various allergies, including the common cold. Consuming licorice root tea or powder, at least 1 gram daily, is recommended for those looking to manage and alleviate allergic symptoms effectively. This simple addition to your routine may provide relief from common allergy issues.

Tulsi

Tulsi, also known as holy basil, is highly valued in ayurvedic system for its cleansing properties. It promotes digestion, circulation, and helps prevent colds by eliminating excess kapha from the respiratory tract. Tulsi also supports the immune system and mental clarity. Adding Tulsi liquid extracts to morning tea is a simple way to boost immunity and fight infections.

Turmeric

Turmeric, with its powerful antibacterial and antioxidant properties, is effective in relieving common cold symptoms. It strengthens digestion, purifies the blood, and gargling with turmeric can provide relief from throat issues like inflammation and soreness.

Ginger

Ginger, known for stimulating the immune system, is a popular remedy for the common cold. It helps burn endotoxins, cleanses the blood, and clears excess kapha from the lungs. Extracting ginger juice and adding it to water or regular tea can be a beneficial practice.

Amla

Amla, also known as Indian gooseberry, is a powerful ingredient in Ayurvedic medicine known for its strong anti-allergic properties. You can easily incorporate it into your daily routine by mixing one teaspoon of amla powder with honey. This simple addition may contribute to managing allergies effectively.

Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha, considered a superfood in ayurvedic system, is effective in combating infections and alleviating cold, cough, and viral symptoms. Regular consumption boosts immunity, and in the case of sudden cold infections, taking Ashwagandha in tablet or powder form up to three times a day is recommended. Its immune-boosting qualities also help manage stress and fatigue associated with viral infections. These Ayurvedic remedies provide natural support for the immune system and overall well-being.

Home Remedies for common cold

Holy Basil and Ginger Tea Substitute:

To ease cold and flu symptoms, you can make a tea substitute using holy basil (Tulsi) leaves and dried ginger powder. Mix equal amounts of both and consume the blend with milk and sugar three times a day.

Ginger and Holy Basil Juice:

Combining one teaspoon each of ginger (Adrak) and holy basil (Tulsi) juice with one teaspoon of honey creates a beneficial concoction. Taking this mixture two to three times a day helps alleviate cold symptoms.

Black Pepper and Jaggery Remedy:

To ease cold discomfort, ingest half a teaspoon of black pepper (marich) powder with jaggery (guda) twice daily.

Fried Ginger in Ghee:

Consume a small piece of ginger (Adraka) fried in ghee twice a day for relief from cold symptoms.

Turmeric Milk or Paste:

Mix one teaspoon of turmeric powder or paste with a cup of milk. Alternatively, consume fried turmeric powder with 1-2 gm of ghee mixed in hot milk thrice a day for immediate relief and quicker recovery.

Turmeric Gargle:

Soothe a sore throat by performing a warm turmeric powder gargle 2-3 times a day.

Lemon Juice Infusion:

Drink a glass of hot water mixed with the juice of two lemons and sugar before bedtime for relief from nasal catarrh.

Amla (Indian Gooseberry) Juice:

Effectively manage cold symptoms by consuming two to three teaspoons of fresh Amla juice or half to one teaspoon of Amla powder.

Ayurvedic Remedies for Common cold

The Ayurvedic approach to managing common cold involves using natural remedies instead of antibiotics. Here are some simple solutions:

Saltwater Gargle: Instead of using throat sprays, gargle with warm water and salt. This helps reduce throat swelling, loosen mucus, and flush out irritants or bacteria.

Ginger Masala Tea: Drink masala tea with a lot of ginger during a common cold. The warmth of the tea soothes the throat and provides pain relief.

Turmeric Milk (Golden Milk): Mix 1/4th tsp of turmeric powder into warm milk (you can add pepper powder). Turmeric has antibacterial and antiviral properties, helping with phlegm removal. Palm sugar can be added for sweetness.

Kadha/Kashayam: Boil Tulsi leaves, pepper powder, and turmeric powder in water until it reduces by half. Drink it warm, and you can add pounded dry ginger and palm sugar for added benefits.

Ginger-Tulsi Mixture: Combine ginger extract, crushed tulsi leaves, and honey for relief from common cold.

Ginger Lozenges: Chew on thin slices of washed and peeled ginger seasoned with black salt and lime juice to soothe common cold.

Honey in Warm Water: Mix 2 tablespoons of honey with 1 teaspoon of lime juice in warm water. Sip on this for common cold relief.

Jatiphaladi Churna: Try this cannabis-infused Ayurvedic formulation for common cold relief and managing respiratory disorders.

Guduchi (Giloy): Known as “Amrit” in ayurvedic system, Guduchi is an immunomodulator effective against fever and infections, boosting immunity.

Triphala Churna: Available in grocery stores, Triphala Churna helps flush out toxins after a common cold, maintaining dosha balance.

The suggested dosage for these remedies (excluding supplements) is about 3-4 times a day. These age-old Ayurvedic remedies use natural ingredients to address common ailments.

Prevention and Self-Care Measures for Common cold

To minimize the severity of certain conditions, you can take various measures. If you have nasal congestion, try inhaling steam. Mix a few drops of eucalyptus oil with hot water in a bowl, cover your head and the bowl with a towel, and breathe in the steam for a few minutes. Make sure the steam is not too hot to avoid burns on your face.

Boost your immune system for overall health by incorporating immune-boosting plants like Amla and Tulsi into your routine. Maintain a moderate room temperature to allow your body to naturally release heat. Stay away from individuals who are currently dealing with cold infections. Ensure a balanced diet, get enough rest, and drink plenty of hot beverages.

Caring for Newborns during Coughs & Colds to Prevent Acute Respiratory Infections:

When dealing with coughs and colds in newborns, consider the following steps. Relieve throat irritation and cough using home remedies such as a mixture of lemon with honey, ginger, tulsi, and warm water. Use these remedies in small, appropriate doses for effective relief.

Dietary Management For Common Cold

The Dietary Guidelines for Each Dosha are essential for effectively managing symptoms associated with colds, according to Ayurvedic principles. Adhering to these guidelines not only helps alleviate discomfort but also strengthens the connection with the body’s inherent wisdom.

Vata

For Vata imbalance, characterized by a craving for warmth and grounding, it’s beneficial to consume warm, moist, and nourishing foods. This includes hearty soups, stews, and broths with healthy fats and proteins. Root vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, and beets provide the grounding energy needed, and spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves add flavor and warmth. Avoiding cold drinks, raw salads, and caffeine is advisable as they can worsen Vata’s cold and restless qualities.

Pitta

In the case of Pitta imbalance, with its fiery nature, cooling down and soothing the system is key. Sweet, bitter, and astringent foods can help pacify aggravated Pitta. Opt for refreshing choices like melons, pears, and grapes, along with cooling vegetables such as cucumbers, broccoli, and zucchini. Dairy products, especially ghee and milk, are beneficial, but it’s crucial to choose non-sour options. Rice and barley are suitable grains, while minimizing spicy foods, fermented products, and excessive caffeine is advised.

Kapha

For Kapha imbalance, characterized by heavy and stagnant energy, a light, dry, and warm diet is recommended. Pungent, bitter, and astringent foods stimulate digestion and reduce mucus production. Choose grains like quinoa and millet, and include leafy greens and vegetables such as brussels sprouts, asparagus, and radishes. Spices like turmeric, black pepper, and cumin kindle the digestive fire. Reducing dairy, fried foods, and sweets is important as they contribute to the sluggishness and mucus accumulation typical of a Kapha imbalance.

PUNARNAVA (BOERHAVIA DIFFUSA)

ALAINCHI (AMOMUM SUBULATUM)

ARANDI ( Ricinus communis )

ASHOKA ( Saraca Asoca )

BALU (SIDA CORDIFOLIA)

BAN LASUN (Lilium nepalense)

BRALIKAND (PUERARIA TUBEROSA)

BARRO (TERMINALLA BELURICA)

BHALAYO (SEMECARPUS ANACARDIUM)

BHALE-SUNPATI (RHODODENDRON LEPIDOTUM)

BHANG (CANNABIS SATIVA)

BHRINOAR.AJ (ECLIPTA PROSTA)