Can Ghee help with cough, or does it make it worse?

Question

I recently heard that Ghee and cough have an interesting relationship in Ayurveda—some say that Ghee helps soothe a cough, while others say it makes mucus worse. Now I’m confused! Does anyone know if Ghee is good for treating a cough, or should it be avoided?

I have had a dry cough for a few days, and my throat feels irritated, especially at night. Someone told me that warm Ghee with black pepper can help relieve a dry cough. Has anyone tried this? How should it be taken for the best results?

On the other hand, I also read that Ghee is not good for a wet cough because it can increase mucus. Is this true? If so, why does Ghee help some types of cough but not others?

Another thing I want to know is whether Ghee and cough have any connection to Ayurvedic doshas. I’ve read that Ghee balances Pitta but might aggravate Kapha. Does this mean that people with Kapha dominance should avoid it during a cold?

If anyone has personal experience using Ghee for cough relief, please share your methods and results. Does it actually work, or is it better to use other home remedies instead?

Dr. Harsha Joy · Accepted Answer

In Ayurveda, the use of ghee for treating a cough depends on the type of cough and the underlying dosha imbalance. Ghee is considered soothing for a dry, irritating cough, as it helps to lubricate the throat and calm the Pitta dosha. Mixing ghee with black pepper or honey is a common remedy for dry coughs because it provides relief and helps reduce throat irritation. However, for a wet cough, ghee may aggravate Kapha dosha by increasing mucus production, so it’s not recommended in such cases. People with Kapha dominance or a cold with significant mucus production should avoid ghee during such episodes. Always consider your dosha type and the nature of your cough before using ghee as a remedy.

Can Ghee help with cough, or does it make it worse? - #12238

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