Ayurvedic Remedies for Cough – Natural Home Remedies & FAQ

Coughing: we can simply define them as the natural reflex that helps to clear the airways and throat by removing foreign particles from there. Even though it is a defensive mechanism, for some it is a nightmare.

There will be at least one person on your friends list who struggles with coughing. A drizzle, dust, or cold weather is enough for them to trigger coughing. For them, Ayurveda is there. There are some effective Ayurvedic remedies for cough that will make your cough under control. Let’s discuss Ayurvedic remedies for cough.

Cough (kasa) and Ayurveda

According to ancient Ayurvedic manuscripts, coughing (kasa) can result from the imbalance in any of the three doshas, Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Each type of cough is associated with different symptoms and reasons. According to Ayurveda, there are five types of coughs: vatha cough, pitha cough, kapha cough, ksataja and ksaya.

• Vataja Kasa (Vata Cough): This cough is dry, and usually it is accompanied by a hoarse voice, a tickling sensation in the throat, and occasional headaches. It is caused by the imbalance in the Vata dosha. Disha, which governs movement and dryness in the body.The distinctive nature of this cough is that it is dry, with limited mucus. It can also be accompanied by chest pain and loss of voice.

• Pittaja Kasa (pitta cough): Coughs due to the imbalance of pitta dosha are called “pittaja kasa.” A Pitta cough is distinguishable by several symptoms. For example, intense throat pain, a burning sensation, and yellowish or greenish mucus. It is caused by excess Pitta dosha. In this disease, the cough continues and is severe when compared to Vataja Kasa. In severe cases, mucus even contains blood. Fever will also accompany.

• Kaphaja Kasa (Kapha Cough): Coughs due to the imbalance in kapha dosha are called “kaphaja kasa.”It is characterized by large amounts of white, thick, and sticky mucus. And it will also accompany nausea/vomiting and a runny nose. Coughing will be continuous in this case. Kaphaja kasa is usually wet, with thick, sticky mucus, congestion, and a feeling of heaviness in the chest. It is caused by an imbalance in the Kapha dosha, which governs structure and fluid balance in the body.

• Kastaja kasa: It shows symptoms of both vata and pitta types. In some cases, mucus may contain blood due to infection or bleeding, and it may also see discoloration too. Another notable symptom for this cough is fever, joint pains, or urine with blood.

• Kasya: This type of cough occurs with conditions like tuberculosis. It leads to the drying up or loss of tissues in the lungs. Imbalance in the vata is the major reason behind this problem; imbalance of the other two doshas also plays a crucial role.

Ayurvedic Remedies for Cough

There are many effective Ayurvedic remedies to overcome coughing issues. You can beat that villain by using these remedies. But those who have fourth- and fifth-category coughs should consult a physician.

Ginger

Ginger is a commonly used Ayurvedic remedy for cough. It is a powerful herb that helps to balance Vata by warming the body and soothing the throat. So using ginger may help you to overcome your cough.

How to Use Ginger for Cough

You can use it by preparing tea using ginger. Put some fresh ginger slices in boiling water, and add honey to taste. Drink this warm tea twice a day.

Tulsi

Tulsi: “Mother Medicine of Nature” or “The Queen of Herbs” is a common Ayurvedic remedy that can help to overcome various diseases. Tulsi leaves improve immunity and enable us to fight against the common cold as well as cough. It also increases the production of antibodies and clears airways.

How to Use Tulsi for Cough

• Tulsi Leaves: Chew some fresh tulsi leaves. Chewing in the morning makes it more effective.

• Tulsi Tea: Put some fresh tulsi leaves in boiling water. Then you can add some honey for sweet and have it.

• Tulsi and Ginger Concentrate: Take some fresh tulsi leaves and fresh ginger slices. Then put these ingredients in boiling water and drink, or you can also gargle using this.

Honey

Honey possesses antimicrobial properties, so consuming honey may help relieve cough. Along with its heavenly taste, it eases your sore throat. It also helps with chest congestion by loosening thick mucus. So those who are struggling with coughing can try this.

How to Use Honey for Cough

Consume one tablespoon of honey before going to bed.

Ginger and Honey Juice

Take some water, add some fresh ginger slices, and add some honey. Then blend it well and make a juice. Consuming this will give relief from a sore throat and cough.

Honey and Turmeric

Mix some honey with a pinch of turmeric powder. Turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, and honey soothes the throat. Take this mixture twice a day.

Licorice or Mulethi

Known as Yashtimadhu in Ayurveda. Licorice root is an excellent remedy for soothing dry and irritated throats. It can be chewed directly, or you can make tea using this.

Steaming

Inhaling steam with eucalyptus or peppermint oil can help clear the respiratory tract and reduce congestion. Which gives relief from coughing.

Preventive Measures for Cough

Precaution is always better than cure. A slight change in your lifestyle can create big impacts.

• Diet: Always prefer a balanced diet. Avoid cold and heavy food. Maintaining a balanced diet keeps your doshas in equilibrium.

• Exercise: Doing exercise or practicing yoga helps to keep your dosha balanced.

• Avoid cold weather: Avoid cold weather and air conditioners, or take preventive measures during the cold.

These are major remedies and preventive measures according to Ayurveda. These ayurvedic remedies for cough may help to relieve your issues. That doesn’t mean that it is the final word or you don’t want to consult a doctor. Always consult a physician if you have a cough. Because you cannot diagnose actual cause of your cough.

So if you are struggling with continuous coughing, consult a doctor and make sure that it is not a serious issue. And don’t think that these remedies are ineffective; these are traditionally used effective remedies. So use this and experience the power of nature.

Related Topics

Frequently Asked Questions on Ayurvedic Remedies for Cough