What is the best Ayurvedic treatment for cough?

Question

I’ve been dealing with a nagging cough and want to know about Ayurvedic treatments. What is the best Ayurvedic treatment for cough, and how does it provide long-lasting relief?

Ayurvedic treatments for cough focus on addressing the root cause, which may stem from an imbalance in the doshas. One of the most recommended treatments is Trikatu Churna, a blend of ginger, black pepper, and long pepper, known to reduce kapha and improve respiratory health. Is it more effective for wet cough, or can it also work for dry cough?

Another widely used remedy is Dashamoola Kashayam, a decoction of ten medicinal roots that reduce inflammation and improve lung function. Should this be consumed daily, and how quickly does it provide noticeable results?

For dry coughs, Ayurveda suggests chewing mulethi (licorice root) or consuming honey mixed with ginger juice. Does this combination work immediately, or is it better suited for long-term relief?

Additionally, Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of lifestyle changes like avoiding cold and processed foods and practicing pranayama to strengthen the lungs. Are there specific pranayama techniques that work best for managing chronic coughs?

If anyone has used Ayurvedic treatments for cough, I’d love to hear your experiences. Which remedies worked best for you, and how quickly did you recover?

Dr Sujal Patil · Accepted Answer

Ayurvedic treatments for cough focus on addressing the root cause, often linked to imbalances in the doshas, particularly kapha and vata. Trikatu Churna, a blend of ginger, black pepper, and long pepper, is highly effective for wet coughs as it reduces kapha and clears mucus, but it also helps stimulate digestion and improve overall respiratory health, making it useful for dry coughs too when paired with honey.

For persistent or chronic coughs, Dashamoola Kashayam is recommended due to its anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory properties. This herbal decoction can be consumed daily (typically twice a day) to strengthen lung function and reduce inflammation, with noticeable improvements often seen within a few days to a week of consistent use. For dry coughs, chewing mulethi (licorice root) or taking ginger juice mixed with honey provides immediate soothing relief and helps when used consistently.

Ayurveda also highlights the importance of lifestyle adjustments to prevent recurring coughs. Avoiding cold, fried, and processed foods while practicing pranayama—such as Anulom Vilom (alternate nostril breathing) or Bhastrika (bellows breathing)—can strengthen the lungs and support long-term respiratory health. Combining these remedies with warm fluids like herbal teas enhances recovery and provides sustained relief.

Dr. Harsha Joy · Answer

Ayurvedic treatments for cough focus on balancing the doshas, particularly by addressing imbalances in kapha and vata that contribute to respiratory issues. Trikatu Churna, a blend of ginger, black pepper, and long pepper, is effective for both wet and dry coughs, as it clears mucus, stimulates digestion, and supports lung function. For dry coughs, remedies like mulethi (licorice root) and a mix of honey and ginger juice can soothe irritation and provide long-term relief by reducing inflammation and improving throat health. Dashamoola Kashayam, a decoction of ten medicinal roots, is beneficial for improving lung health and reducing inflammation, though it may take a few days to show noticeable results. Ayurveda also emphasizes pranayama techniques such as ujjayi and bhastrika to strengthen the lungs, improve oxygen flow, and manage chronic coughs. Regular consumption of these remedies, along with lifestyle adjustments like avoiding cold and processed foods, can offer lasting relief from coughing and improve overall respiratory health.

What is the best Ayurvedic treatment for cough? - #10906

Doctors’ responses

If you need a detailed answer, ask the Ayurvedic doctor your question

About our doctors

Related questions