Cough and Phlegm
Cough is the body’s way of expelling any kind of irritant from your throat and respiratory tract, while phlegm or mucus is a type of sticky fluid that accumulates in your lungs and airways, which can be coughed out. Cough is a natural defense mechanism of the body to clear out irritants, mucus (phlegm) from the throat and respiratory tract. However, persistent coughing with a lot of phlegm can cause discomfort that can interfere with daily life. While modern medicines provide instant relief from cough and phlegm, Ayurveda’s natural treatment works without causing any harm, addressing the root cause of cough and phlegm formation.
In this Ayurvedic treatment, we will talk about the causes of cough and phlegm, types of cough according to Ayurveda, and home remedies and treatments to soothe and heal your respiratory system in a natural way.
Understanding Phlegm and Cough
What is a Cough?
A cough is a reaction to irritation in the throat or lungs. Cough, also called tussis, is usually of two types:
- Dry Cough (Non-productive): It produces no mucus and causes an itchy throat.
- Wet Cough (Productive): It produces mucus or phlegm.
What is Phlegm?
It is a normal part of your body’s immune defense system. It is thick mucus secreted by the respiratory tract in response to infection, seasonal allergies or inflammation. Too much phlegm can cause congestion, wheezing and difficulty breathing.
What causes of Cough and Phlegm
- It may be due to a Viral or Bacterial Infection (e.g., cold, flu, bronchitis).
- It may be due to an allergy to dust, smoke, or pollen.
- It may also be due to environmental factors (pollution, cold weather).
- It may also be due to asthma and sinus infections.
- Smoking or passive smoking may cause cough and phlegm.
- This may be the result of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Ayurvedic view of Phlegm and Cough
In Ayurveda, cough is also called “Kas Rog” and phlegm is associated with Kapha dosha imbalance. Cough can be caused by imbalances of the following:
- Vata Dosha- Causes dry and spasmodic cough
- Pitta Dosha- Causes inflammation, yellow mucus with heat
- Kapha Dosha- Causes thick, white phlegm, heaviness and congestion
Treatment aims to balance the aggravated doshas, eliminate toxins (ama) and strengthen immunity (ojas).
Top Ayurvedic Home Remedies for Phlegm and Cough
1. Tulsi Kadha
Benefits for Phlegm and Cough: Tulsi Kadha is anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and great for respiratory health.
How to Prepare Tulsi Kadha:
- Boil 5-6 Tulsi leaves in 1.5 cups of water
- Add ginger slices and a pinch of black pepper to it
- Boil till the water reduces to half
- Strain it and add honey to it
Dosage: Consuming it 2-3 times a day gives quick relief
2. Honey and Black Pepper
Benefits for Cough and Cold: It soothes the throat, reduces irritation and controls mucus.
How to Use it:
- Take 1 teaspoon of honey and add a little black pepper powder to it.
- Now consume this mixture twice a day, you will feel relief quickly.
3. Turmeric Milk (Haldi Doodh)
Benefits: Turmeric is a natural antiseptic and immunity booster.
How to Prepare:
- Heat 1 glass of milk
- Then add 1/2 teaspoon turmeric and a pinch of black pepper to it
- Now consume it before sleeping
4. Ginger and Mulethi Tea
Benefits of Ginger and Licorice for Cough and Cold: It relieves throat irritation, dissolves phlegm, and has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce throat inflammation.
How to Make Ginger and Licorice Tea:
- Boil ginger pieces and 1 teaspoon licorice powder in water
- Add cinnamon to enhance the taste
- Strain it and sip it hot
5. Steam Inhalation with Eucalyptus Oil
Benefits: It loosens mucus and relieves congestion in the nose and chest.
How to Use it:
- Add 2-3 drops of eucalyptus oil to hot water
- Then put a towel on your head and inhale the steam
- Do this 2 times a day
6. Sitopaladi Churna
Ayurvedic Remedy: A classic and excellent recipe for treating cough and cold.
How to Use it:
- Mix 1 teaspoon of Sitopaladi Churan with honey
- Then take it twice a day under the guidance of an Ayurvedic doctor
7. Pippali (Long Pepper) and Honey
Benefits: It acts as an expectorant and strengthens the lungs.
How to Use it:
- Mix 1/4 teaspoon of Pipali Churn in 1 teaspoon of honey and then consume it.
- Daily for 7 days
8. Gargle with Salt Water
Benefits: Gargling with salt water reduces throat inflammation and kills germs.
How to Do:
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of rock salt to warm water
- Then gargle 2-3 times a day
Lifestyle and Diet Tips in Ayurveda
What to do when you have a Cough?
Drink warm water throughout the day
Use a humidifier in dry weather
Eat light, warm and easily digestible food
Include ginger, garlic and turmeric in your diet
Do pranayama (like Anulom Vilom, Bhramari) to make you feel better
What not to do When you have a Cough?
- Avoid cold drinks, ice cream and fried foods
- Stay away from dust and smoke
- Avoid dairy (milk, curd) when you have phlegm accumulation
- Do not eat or sleep too much during the day
When to see a doctor if you have cough and phlegm?
Although Ayurvedic treatment is very effective for mild to moderate cough and cold symptoms, you should see a doctor if:
- The cough lasts for more than 2-3 weeks
- If you have high fever or chest pain, definitely see a doctor
- If the phlegm is bloody or greenish-yellow, see a doctor immediately
- If you are having difficulty breathing
Conclusion
Cough is often a troubling condition. Cough and phlegm though a common ailment can be effectively managed using Ayurvedic herbs, spices and lifestyle changes. Consistent use of natural remedies like tulsi, turmeric, ginger and proper diet can clear congestion, soothe throat and boost immunity. Ayurvedic home remedies for phlegm and cough are easily relieved.
If it persists for more than two weeks or is getting worse, you must consult a medical professional. And consult an Ayurvedic doctor before starting any herbal treatment.
