how to make kadha for cough and cold - #24365
I am struggling with this nagging cough and cold that just won't go away, and I remember my grandmother used to make this amazing kadha that always helped. But like, I have no idea how to make kadha for cough and cold myself! I tried looking it up online, but there are, like, a million different recipes and I can’t tell which one's the best or most effective. I kinda remember her using things like ginger, turmeric, and maybe some black pepper, but I don’t know how much I should use or if there are other ingredients I should include. Last week, I even felt so bad that I woke up in the middle of the night coughing, and all I wanted was a warm cup of that kadha, but I had no clue how to make it! Can someone please help me with a simple way on how to make kadha for cough and cold? Or like, do you have any tips on making it taste better, 'cause I'm not great with bitter flavors, lol. Seriously, any advice would be soooo appreciated!
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Doctors’ responses
Preparing a classic kadha for cough and cold can be an effective way to manage those symptoms using ayurvedic methods. Indeed, many of these ingredients help fight cold symptoms by boosting your immune system and soothing the throat.
To prepare a simple kadha at home, start with the following ingredients:
- Water: 2 cups - Fresh ginger: about 1-inch piece, bruised - Turmeric powder: 1/2 teaspoon - Black pepper: 5-6 whole peppercorns or 1/2 teaspoon ground - Clove: 2-3 pieces - Cinnamon: half-inch stick - Holy basil (Tulsi) leaves: 7-8 leaves - Honey: 1-2 teaspoons (optional, to taste) - Lemon juice (optional, a few drops for taste)
Combine the water and all the spices and herbs except honey and lemon in a pot. Boil this mixture until it reduces to about a cup, which takes approximately 10-15 minutes. This concentrates the flavors and beneficial compounds. Strain the kadha into a cup, then let it cool a bit. You can add honey or a few drops of lemon juice to taste, but try and take it warm. If bitterness is an issue, honey helps smooth it out.
A note of caution: people with specific conditions like ulcers or hyperacidity should be careful with strong spices and take them under guidance. Always consider your doshic balance and consult a physician if you’re unsure.
Take the kadha 1-2 times daily, especially in the morning or before bed. It may help soothe your symptoms over the next few days. Remember though, chronic coughs that persist might need further medical attention, would recommend observing your symptoms and how they evolve.

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