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Watch This Video: Powerful Kadha Recipe with Tulsi for Instant Cold and Cough Relief!

by Dr. Shruthi R September 16, 2024

written by Dr. Shruthi R

Kadha For Cold Cough: It is the rainy season and even a little getting wet in this season can be harmful for health. In such a situation, if you too have fallen ill due to getting wet in the rain, then Tulsi can help you. Yes, you can consume the decoction of Tulsi.

Kadha for Cold and Cough: Tulsi’s Healing Power During the Rainy Season

The monsoon season brings with it the joy of cool breezes, fresh rain, and relief from the summer heat. However, it also ushers in a host of health problems, especially related to the common cold and cough. The sudden changes in weather, coupled with getting wet in the rain, can lead to a weakened immune system, leaving you susceptible to infections.

During this season, many people fall ill due to viral infections, colds, coughs, and flu-like symptoms. While modern medicine offers quick relief, natural remedies have been used for centuries to treat such conditions effectively. One such remedy is the consumption of Kadha, a traditional Indian herbal decoction made with various medicinal herbs. A key ingredient in many Kadha recipes is Tulsi, also known as Holy Basil, which holds a special place in Ayurvedic medicine for its incredible health benefits.

This long-form description will explore the benefits of Kadha, particularly one made with Tulsi, for treating cold and cough. We’ll delve into how Tulsi, combined with other powerful herbs, can create a potent decoction to boost immunity, relieve respiratory symptoms, and promote overall health. Additionally, we will discuss how you can prepare this Kadha at home and how its consumption can keep you safe from seasonal illnesses during the rainy season.

Understanding the Common Cold and Cough in the Rainy Season

The monsoon, despite its beauty, comes with increased humidity and fluctuating temperatures, creating the perfect environment for viruses and bacteria to thrive. A sudden downpour often leaves people drenched, leading to chills, fever, and a weakened immune system. As a result, many people experience colds, coughs, sore throats, and congestion during this time.

The cold and cough are typically viral infections that affect the upper respiratory tract. The body’s immune system fights these infections, but symptoms like runny nose, sore throat, sneezing, and chest congestion can cause discomfort and take a few days to subside.

While over-the-counter medicines are widely available, many individuals turn to herbal remedies like Kadha for relief. Kadha is especially popular in Indian households for its ability to alleviate symptoms naturally and without side effects.

What is Kadha?

Kadha is a herbal decoction prepared by boiling various herbs and spices in water. This traditional Ayurvedic remedy has been used for generations to treat respiratory ailments, boost immunity, and combat seasonal infections. The herbs used in Kadha, such as Tulsi, ginger, black pepper, cinnamon, and cloves, have anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antimicrobial properties that help fight infection and provide relief from symptoms of cold and cough.

In Ayurveda, the effectiveness of Kadha is attributed to its hot (ushna) and dry (ruksha) qualities, which balance the body’s doshas, especially Kapha and Vata. Cold and cough are typically associated with an imbalance in Kapha, leading to excessive mucus production and congestion. Kadha works by reducing this imbalance and clearing the respiratory passages.

Tulsi: The Queen of Herbs

Among the various ingredients used in Kadha, Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) is a standout for its potent medicinal properties. Tulsi, or Holy Basil, is revered in Ayurveda as a powerful adaptogen and is often referred to as the “Queen of Herbs” due to its ability to address a wide range of health issues.

Benefits of Tulsi:

Immunity Booster: Tulsi is packed with antioxidants, which help to strengthen the immune system. It also has antimicrobial properties that combat viruses and bacteria, making it effective in preventing infections during the rainy season.
Relief from Respiratory Ailments: Tulsi is especially beneficial for the respiratory system. It helps reduce symptoms of bronchitis, asthma, and allergies by soothing the airways and clearing mucus. Its expectorant properties make it excellent for treating coughs, both dry and productive.
Anti-inflammatory and Antiviral: Tulsi has strong anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that help reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract, relieve sore throats, and fight viral infections that cause colds and flu.
Rich in Essential Nutrients: Tulsi is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, zinc, and iron, which contribute to overall health and wellness. These nutrients support the immune system and help the body recover from illness faster.
Soothing Effect on the Throat: Drinking Tulsi Kadha can provide relief from throat irritation caused by coughing. The warming nature of Tulsi soothes the throat and reduces the frequency of coughing.

Other Ingredients in Tulsi Kadha and Their Benefits

While Tulsi is the star ingredient, other herbs and spices commonly used in Kadha enhance its therapeutic effects. Here’s a look at the additional ingredients often included in a Tulsi Kadha for cold and cough:

Ginger (Adrak): Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It helps alleviate sore throats, reduces inflammation, and clears respiratory congestion. The warming effect of ginger also boosts blood circulation and improves digestion, aiding overall health during the cold season.
Black Pepper (Kali Mirch): Black pepper is a natural expectorant that helps break up mucus and phlegm, making it easier to expel from the lungs. Its pungent nature stimulates digestion and helps flush out toxins from the body. In Kadha, black pepper enhances the efficacy of other herbs and speeds up the recovery process.
Cinnamon (Dalchini): Cinnamon has antimicrobial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties that help the body fight infections. It is also a great source of antioxidants and helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels, which can drop during illness. The spicy-sweet aroma of cinnamon adds warmth and flavor to the Kadha.
Cloves (Laung): Cloves are rich in eugenol, a compound known for its antiseptic, antiviral, and pain-relieving properties. They help soothe the throat, reduce coughing, and alleviate symptoms of cold. Cloves are also known to have antioxidant properties that support immune function.
Turmeric (Haldi): Turmeric is renowned for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits. It helps in reducing inflammation in the respiratory tract and prevents the progression of viral infections. Turmeric also boosts immunity and helps the body fight infections more effectively.
Honey: Honey is often added to Kadha to enhance its taste and provide additional health benefits. It soothes the throat, reduces coughing, and acts as a natural antibacterial agent. Honey also provides a burst of energy, which is helpful when the body is fighting off an infection.

How to Prepare Tulsi Kadha for Cold and Cough

Making Tulsi Kadha at home is simple and requires just a few common kitchen ingredients. Here’s how you can prepare this potent herbal decoction:

Ingredients:

8-10 fresh Tulsi leaves (or 1 tablespoon dried Tulsi)
1-inch piece of ginger (crushed)
5-6 black peppercorns (crushed)
1 cinnamon stick (or 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon powder)
2-3 cloves
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
2 cups of water
Honey or jaggery to taste (optional)

Instructions:

In a pan, add 2 cups of water and bring it to a boil.
Add the Tulsi leaves, ginger, black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, and turmeric to the boiling water.
Let the mixture simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes until the water reduces to about half.
Strain the decoction into a cup.
Add honey or jaggery to sweeten if desired.
Drink the Kadha warm, preferably twice a day, to relieve cold and cough symptoms.

The Role of Tulsi Kadha in Boosting Immunity

One of the greatest advantages of consuming Tulsi Kadha is its ability to strengthen the immune system. A strong immune system is vital during the rainy season, as the body is more vulnerable to infections. The combination of herbs and spices in the Kadha provides a natural boost to the body’s defense mechanisms.

Tulsi enhances the body’s ability to fight off viral and bacterial infections, making it ideal for preventing colds and coughs.
Ginger and black pepper help in clearing the respiratory tract, making it easier for the body to expel excess mucus.
Turmeric plays a crucial role in reducing inflammation and preventing the spread of infection.
Cloves and cinnamon work together to relieve throat pain and irritation, providing comfort during bouts of coughing.

Tulsi Kadha: A Preventive Remedy

Apart from being an effective treatment for cold and cough, Tulsi Kadha can also be consumed as a preventive remedy. Drinking it regularly during the monsoon season helps keep the body’s immune system strong, reducing the risk of falling ill.

If you are someone who often catches a cold or suffers from respiratory issues during the rainy season, incorporating Tulsi Kadha into your daily routine can provide much-needed protection. Its natural ingredients are gentle on the body, making it suitable for all age groups, including children and the elderly.

Nature’s Cure for Monsoon Illnesses

The rainy season may bring with it the charm of cool weather and beautiful scenery, but it also increases the risk of colds, coughs, and other respiratory ailments. Instead of turning to synthetic medications, which may have side effects, why not embrace the healing power of nature?

Tulsi Kadha is a time-tested Ayurvedic remedy that harnesses the medicinal properties of Tulsi and other herbs to provide relief from cold and cough. It’s easy to prepare, safe to consume, and effective in boosting immunity. By making Tulsi Kadha a part of your monsoon wellness routine, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from seasonal illnesses and enjoy the beauty of the rainy season without worry.

So the next time you find yourself under the weather after getting wet in the rain, reach for a cup of warm Tulsi Kadha to soothe your throat, clear your congestion, and restore your health.

September 16, 2024 0 comment

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Video: Is It Safe to Give Brandy to Babies for Cold and Cough? Expert Insights Revealed!

by Dr. Shruthi R September 7, 2024

written by Dr. Shruthi R

Watch this insightful video to learn if giving brandy to babies for cold and cough is safe. Experts share the potential risks and better alternatives for your child’s health.

Brandy for Baby: Is It Safe to Give Brandy to Children for Cold and Cough?

In rural areas, the use of traditional home remedies is still common. One such remedy is giving brandy or rum to small children when they suffer from cold and cough. This practice has been followed for generations, especially in rural and tribal areas. Many believe that a small dose of alcohol, like brandy or rum, helps provide relief to children suffering from cold and cough. But the key question is whether this method is truly safe and effective. Could giving alcohol to children have long-term impacts on their health?

In this article, we will explore in detail whether giving brandy to children for cold and cough is safe, the potential benefits, risks, and the health implications based on scientific evidence.

1. Brandy and Cold-Cough: Traditional Beliefs

In rural India, traditional home remedies are widely used to treat common ailments like cold and cough. One of the prominent treatments is giving children brandy or rum. It is believed that these alcoholic drinks provide warmth to the body and help relieve cold and cough symptoms. Alcohol, in fact, can increase blood circulation and cause a temporary warming sensation, which may bring some relief in cold weather.

Elders in rural areas believe that brandy or rum helps the body fight off external cold, which may reduce cold and cough symptoms. For small children, these alcoholic drinks are often mixed with warm water or milk. However, it’s crucial to understand that children’s bodies are much more sensitive than adults’, and their liver and other organs are not fully developed. In such cases, can alcohol potentially harm them?

2. Ingredients in Brandy and Their Effects

Brandy primarily contains alcohol, which can have various effects on the body. Alcohol impacts the nervous system, and this effect is much stronger in children. It can influence brain development, cause sleep disturbances, and, in the long term, negatively affect mental health.

Additionally, alcohol can impact children’s respiratory systems, slowing down their breathing rate. Children’s bodies are still in the developmental stage, and their organs, particularly the liver and kidneys, are not capable of processing alcohol like an adult’s body. Even a small amount of alcohol in a child’s body can be toxic.

3. Impact on Children’s Physical Development

Introducing any form of alcohol to children at a young age can adversely affect their physical and mental development. Alcohol can disrupt brain structure and functioning, potentially hindering long-term mental growth and learning ability. Particularly in infants and young children, whose brains and bodies are rapidly developing, alcohol consumption can significantly impede normal growth.

Research shows that children who consume alcohol at a young age may face difficulties in concentrating, experience memory loss, and develop behavioral issues. Additionally, alcohol can weaken their immune system, making them more susceptible to illnesses.

4. Long-Term Health Risks

Children who are given brandy or rum at an early age may face several long-term health issues. These include liver diseases, alcohol dependence, and mental health disorders in the future. Alcohol consumption can also affect the development of bones and muscles. It interferes with the body’s ability to absorb calcium, leading to weakened bones.

Furthermore, alcohol consumption can cause sleep problems and respiratory issues in children. It can disrupt their sleep cycle, which may further interfere with their mental and physical development.

5. Is This Method Safe?

Although giving brandy or rum to children for cold and cough has been a traditional remedy for centuries, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s safe. Modern medicine suggests that alcohol consumption can be harmful to children. Instead, doctors and health experts recommend safer and more effective treatments. For children suffering from cold and cough, ensuring they get enough rest, stay hydrated, and take doctor-prescribed medications is the most suitable approach.

Research shows that alcohol’s impact on children’s bodies can be severe and long-lasting. Therefore, parents and guardians should consider this before resorting to such traditional remedies and seek advice from medical professionals.

6. Safe Alternatives for Cold and Cough

When children suffer from cold or cough, it is better to use other safe alternatives rather than giving them brandy or rum. Some options that provide relief without causing harm include:

Steam Inhalation: Inhaling steam can help clear a blocked nose and loosen mucus in the throat, providing relief from cold and cough.
Honey and Ginger: For children older than one year, a mixture of honey and ginger can soothe a sore throat and reduce coughing.
Warm Fluids: Giving children warm liquids such as soup, warm water, or ginger tea can offer relief from cold and cough symptoms.
Warm Clothing: Ensuring that children are properly dressed and kept warm can help protect them from cold and provide comfort during a cough or cold.

While limited alcohol consumption may be beneficial for adults in certain circumstances, it can be dangerous for children. Children’s bodies are not equipped to handle alcohol, and it can seriously affect their physical and mental development. Therefore, the traditional practice of giving brandy or rum to children for cold and cough is not advisable. Instead, seeking professional medical advice and following scientifically proven remedies is the safest choice.

Children’s health is delicate, and every decision made should prioritize their well-being. If your child suffers from cold or cough, consulting a doctor for appropriate treatment is the best course of action. Traditional remedies should be replaced with modern medical treatments to ensure children grow up healthy and strong.

In conclusion, it is crucial to prioritize children’s health and well-being over traditional practices that may pose more risks than benefits. Always seek a doctor’s guidance when it comes to treating cold and cough in children to avoid any long-term negative effects.

September 7, 2024 0 comment

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The latest on WHO: recommended influenza vaccinations for newly developed strains may be found here

by Medically Speaking August 27, 2021

written by Medically Speaking

Learn more about the flu virus.

Seasonal influenza, or flu, is an infectious virus that causes respiratory disease. It is, however, readily confused with the common cold, which is caused by a distinct viral strain. While these illnesses have many similarities, such as cough, sore throat, and stuffy nose, there are a few significant distinctions. Fever, cold sweats, body pains, headache, tiredness, vomiting, and diarrhoea are all symptoms of the flu, which are not present in the common cold.

Let us take a closer look at the influenza virus and its effects on the increasing flu burden. As per WHO, approximately 65,000 people worldwide are affected by seasonal-influenza-related respiratory illnesses every year. Thirty-six per cent of them are from low to middle-income group countries, including India. Aside from the hospitalization rates for children in India and the severity of influenza burden being recorded, there are no national estimates available on influenza-related mortality.

Being vigilant during the monsoon and winter seasons

In temperate regions, influenza epidemics occur in the winter, whereas in tropical regions, seasonal epidemics appear to occur throughout the year with irregular outbreaks.1
Due to the diverse climate across India, there are vast variations in the impact of influenza from the northern to southern regions. In some parts of the country, particularly in the north, influenza circulation peaks during the winter, whereas in other parts, it peaks during the monsoons.2 Thus, there is a need for year-round preparedness and region-specific approaches for influenza prevention.

Controlling and preventing influenza

One of the primary reasons for annual outbreaks is that the influenza virus undergoes constant but fairly minor genetic mutations. This is called the “antigenic drift”, and it prevents people from developing lasting immunity. For example, a person who has caught the flu in the previous year will develop immunity to that particular viral strain, although they may not have immunity to the current year’s strain due to the slight change in or evolution of its genetic structure.

Seasonal influenza is most often caused by different strains of type A or B influenza viruses, both of which are responsible for annual epidemics, with a prevalence rate of 5–10% and 20–30% in adults and children each year, respectively.4 Globally, since September 2020, influenza activity was mostly reported from countries located in the tropics and subtropics as well as some countries present in the temperate zone of the northern hemisphere. India was among the tropical Asian countries that reported the greatest detection of influenza.
The influenza vaccine, popularly known as the ‘flu shot’, is the first protective step against the virus. With changes in the major influenza strains year-on-year, it remains essential to take the latest influenza vaccine, comprising an updated composition to provide adequate and relevant immunity.

August 27, 2021 0 comment