You can definitely eat apples during a cold. In fact, they can be quite beneficial. From a Siddha-Ayurvedic perspective, apples are considered to be balancing for all three doshas: vata, pitta, and kapha, which means they are generally safe for consumption in various conditions. Apples are known to support the immune system due to their rich vitamin C content, which is particularly helpful when you’re under the weather. They also contain quercetin, a flavonoid that has anti-inflammatory properties, offering relief to your inflamed throat.
However, since you mentioned your throat feels scratchy, you might want to consider how you consume the apples. Instead of eating them raw, which might be slightly irritating due to their fibrous texture, try cooking them lightly. You can stew the apples with a pinch of cinnamon; this not only softens them, making them easier on the throat, but also enhances the digestive fire (agni) as cinnamon is warming.
Make sure to consume them at room temperature as cold foods can worsen symptoms, particularly in kapha-related conditions like colds. And watch out for acidity that some people complain about; it’s rare with apples, but it’s wise to eat them in moderation and observe your own body’s response.
Remember to balance apple consumption with warm fluids and other pitta-pacifying foods. If your symptoms persist or worsen, seeking further medical advice would be prudent, as continuous sneezing and throat discomfort can sometimes indicate underlying conditions that may need professional attention.



