Throat infection

Question

I hv got sore throat and cough due to pollution since yesterday. when I cough it feels like a razor is cutting my throat. I have body ache and chills as well. My 2 yr old daughter has the same condition. Please advise some natural remedies as I don't want to use antibiotics.

Dr Sujal Patil · Accepted Answer

Your symptoms suggest throat inflammation due to pollution exposure, likely compounded by a viral infection. Here are Ayurvedic remedies for both you and your child, with necessary precautions:

Ayurvedic Remedies
Tulsi-Ginger Tea
Boil 10-12 fresh Tulsi (holy basil) leaves and a 1-inch piece of grated ginger in 2 cups of water. Add honey when slightly cooled.
Sip this warm tea 2-3 times a day to soothe the throat and reduce coughing. It is safe for children too but in smaller quantities.
Honey and Clove Mixture
Take a spoon of honey with a pinch of clove powder. This natural antiseptic mix will help reduce throat pain and ease cough.
For your daughter (if over 1 year old), give a small amount (1/4 tsp).
Steam Inhalation
Add a few drops of eucalyptus oil or crushed ajwain (carom seeds) in hot water.
Inhale the steam for 5-10 minutes to help clear airways and soothe the throat.
Turmeric Milk (Caution)
Mix 1/2 tsp turmeric powder with a pinch of black pepper in a cup of warm milk. Drink this before bed to reduce body ache and boost immunity.
Caution: Avoid milk if you have active throat inflammation (sharp pain or swelling), as it may increase mucus production. Use warm water with turmeric instead.
Hydration and Rest
Drink warm water throughout the day, avoiding cold or refrigerated foods. Proper rest and warmth are crucial for recovery.
If symptoms persist for more than a few days or worsen, consult a healthcare professional, especially for your child.

Dr. Ayush Varma · Answer

Sounds like you're really going through a rough patch with that sore throat and cough. Pollution can be a real pain for our respiratory system. Don't worry, there are plenty of natural remedies that can offer help without reaching for antibiotics.

First, for that razor blade feeling—try a warm ginger-turmeric tea. Boil a few slices of fresh ginger and half a teaspoon of turmeric in water for about 10 minutes. Sip this a couple times a day. Its warmness helps soothe the throat, and both ginger and turmeric have anti-inflammatory properties which can ease discomfort.

You might want to look into steam inhalation also. Add a drop or two of eucalyptus oil to hot water, cover your head with a towel, and gently inhale the steam for 5-10 minutes. This will help unclog airways and break up congestion, making it easier to breathe.

You mentioned body ache and chills. A nice warm massage with sesame oil can really help with that. This oil is deeply penetrative , and a little rub down on your muscles around the back and neck might bring some relief.

For your daughter, it might be best to keep it simple. Warm some ajwain (carom seeds) in a cloth and place it near her bed, where she sleeps. Its aroma is gentle yet effective in easing congestion for little ones.

Now about diet, try having warm, easy-to-digest meals like soups with lots of clear broth and soft vegetables. Avoid cold drinks or anything too spicy, as it'll only irritate your throat more.

And rest, both you and your daughter, really need it right now. Keep hydrated and listen to your body. Of course, ensure your condition doesn't escalate. If the symptoms persist or worsen—especially with your child, please consult a healthcare provider urgently.

Throat infection - #2120

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