As the nation is in its next phase of lockdown and reality of the pandemic is now hitting home really hard, we have seen a massive shift in the perception of all with respect to human health and immunity system. There is a sense of panic, as summer worsens in India and yet there is no relief from the impact of the virus, which was once speculated to ebb during summer. But with summer heat increasing and with rising level of it making people more susceptible to infections, it is now more impending on us to take care of our and our family’s immunity. While almost everyone is practicing hygiene as per the measures stated by the WHO, washing hands and isolating from their social circle, in ode of controlling the pandemic – these are some tips that would help in strengthening your respiratory system in a most natural manner. But before that we need to understand what is that cough, which is the primary symptom to detect Covid-19.
Understanding the anatomy of a cough
PranaVayu & UdanaVayu (types of Vata), govern the respiratory system. When allergens, viruses and bacteria vitiate them, irritation occurs. As a countermeasure, the body forcibly expels air to remove the obstruction. During this process, the Vata (biological air) balance in the body gets impaired and causes “vatajakasa.” Ayurveda explains cough as KasaRoga, which is caused due to derangement mainly of Vatadosha. Exposure to smoke, dust allergens, viruses, aggravates the Vata in the region of the chest and brings about contraction and stiffness of the eyes, back, chest that may give rise to Kasa which may be dry or with sputum.
Types of cough
Cough can be identified as wet or dry. A wet cough is one in which mucus builds up in the chest and causes the body to expel mucus whereas a dry cough produces little or no mucus or sputum and it may develop towards the end of a cold or after exposure to an irritant such as dust or smoke
Some tips given by Ministry of Ayush
For dry cough & sore throat:
Steam inhalation with fresh Pudina (Mint) leaves or Ajwain (Caraway seeds), can be practiced once in a day
Lavang (clove powder) mixed with natural sugar / honey can be taken 2-3 times a day in case of cough or throat irritation
These measures generally treat normal to dry cough and sore throat. But it is best to consult doctors if symptoms persist
Strengthening your respiratory system
Avoid Kapha (cough) aggregators:
Certain foods can generate mucus and makes cold worse. Ayurveda stresses on balancing the kaphadosha so that you may find relief from your cold. There are some foods that are intrinsically cold by nature and hence when consumed, they tend to further aggravate the cold. These are known as kapha aggravators. Some foods that aggravate the kapha and can be avoided are yogurt, ice cream, cheese, bananas and avocado.
Consumption Ingredient – Vasaka / Adulsa / Adhatoda
Also known as a Malabar Nut, Vasaka is a powerful herb known to be very effective in managing respiratory problems such as cough, cold and asthma. It balances the Kapha & Pitta in the body and aids the lungs’ability to receive more prana and oxygen
Jalneti
Jalaneti is a traditional Ayurvedic and Yogic practice of maintaining nasal hygiene. Jalaneti is not only beneficial for upper respiratory health and balancing the nervous system, but it is also a healthy practice for mental well-being, increasing clarity of mind. It allows for fuller, freer breathing, which increases the amount of prana, or vital life energy, that we absorb.
(The author is director, Millennium Herbal Care Ltd)