Cough

Question

For the last three weeks, I’ve had this stubborn cough that just won’t go away. At first, I thought it was just a seasonal thing since I get allergies around this time of year, but it’s not getting any better. It started with a mild irritation in my throat, but now it feels like my whole chest is involved. The worst part is at night – I can’t sleep properly because I keep waking up coughing. My throat is always dry in the morning, and sometimes I feel a little breathless after a long bout of cough.

I tried home remedies like ginger tea and warm water with honey, but they only help for a short while. I even used steam inhalation with eucalyptus oil, which gives some relief, but the cough still comes back, especially when I lie down. I don’t have a fever or body pain, but I do feel tired all the time because of poor sleep. Also, I noticed some mucus in my cough, but it’s mostly clear, not thick or yellow.

I visited a doctor a week ago, and they gave me some syrups and antihistamines, but I don’t want to rely too much on allopathic medicine. My body doesn’t react well to strong medicines, and I prefer natural remedies. That’s why I wanted to ask about Ayurveda. Are there specific herbs or treatments in Ayurveda that can help with this kind of persistent cough? I have heard about Tulsi and Mulethi being good for throat issues, but how should they be taken properly?

Also, does Ayurveda have any recommendations for improving lung strength and immunity? My diet is mostly simple, but I do eat spicy food sometimes. Could that be making my cough worse? I also have a habit of drinking cold water, but I’ve stopped for now since I read it can trigger throat irritation.

If this is an issue related to an imbalance in the body, what type of dosha does a cough come under? Can Panchakarma or any Ayurvedic detox help in such a case? I want a long-term solution so that my respiratory system becomes stronger and I don’t have to deal with such problems again and again.

Would love to get some guidance on Ayurvedic approaches for chronic cough relief. Should I focus on any specific lifestyle changes along with herbal remedies?

Dr Sujal Patil · Answer

Your persistent cough could be linked to an imbalance in Vata and Kapha doshas, as per Ayurveda. Dry, irritating coughs are often Vata-related, while mucus-filled coughs indicate Kapha imbalance. Since your cough worsens at night and causes dryness, it suggests Vata aggravation with some Kapha involvement. Ayurvedic herbs like Tulsi (Holy Basil), Mulethi (Licorice), Pippali (Long Pepper), and Vasaka (Adhatoda Vasica) can be highly effective. You can prepare a herbal tea by boiling Tulsi, Mulethi, and Pippali in water and drinking it warm twice a day. Another useful remedy is mixing Mulethi powder with honey and taking it in small doses for soothing the throat.

For lung health and immunity, Ayurveda suggests avoiding cold, spicy, and heavy foods that increase mucus production. Warm, light foods like moong dal soup, ginger-infused water, and turmeric milk can help reduce inflammation. Since you mentioned drinking cold water, switching to warm water with a pinch of turmeric and black pepper can help prevent further irritation. Pranayama (breathing exercises) like Anulom Vilom and Bhastrika can strengthen lung capacity and clear congestion. Avoid exposure to dust, pollution, and cold air, as they can trigger further coughing. Steam inhalation with Ajwain (carom seeds) or eucalyptus oil is excellent for opening the airways and loosening mucus.

Ayurveda also recommends Panchakarma therapies like Vamana (therapeutic vomiting) or Nasya (nasal oil therapy) for chronic respiratory issues, but they should be done under expert guidance. A daily practice of oil pulling with sesame oil can help reduce throat dryness and irritation. Additionally, applying warm mustard oil mixed with salt on the chest before bed can ease congestion. Long-term relief requires balancing Vata and Kapha through a disciplined routine, warm foods, stress reduction, and regular herbal support. If the cough persists, consider consulting an Ayurvedic doctor for a personalized approach.

Dr. Harsha Joy · Answer

In Ayurveda, a persistent cough (Kasa) is often linked to an imbalance in Vata and Kapha doshas, leading to dryness and mucus accumulation in the respiratory tract. Since your cough worsens at night and causes breathlessness, it may indicate a Kapha-Vata imbalance. Tulsi, Mulethi (Yashtimadhu), and Pippali are excellent herbs for soothing the throat, reducing inflammation, and clearing mucus. You can take a decoction of Tulsi, Mulethi, and dry ginger (Shunthi) with honey twice a day for relief. Avoid cold water, spicy foods, and heavy dairy products, as they can aggravate Kapha and increase mucus. Instead, opt for warm, light, and easily digestible meals. Steam inhalation with Ajwain or Turmeric-infused water can help open up the airways. Pranayama, especially Anulom Vilom and Bhastrika, strengthens lung function and improves oxygenation. Ayurvedic therapies like Nasya (nasal oil application) with Anu Taila and Vamana (therapeutic emesis) under expert guidance can help clear excess mucus. Strengthening immunity with Chyawanprash or Sitopaladi Churna can provide long-term respiratory health benefits. A disciplined routine with proper sleep, hydration, and warm herbal teas will aid in faster recovery and prevent recurrence.

Cough - #17012

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