The common cold is primarily caused by viruses, the most prevalent being rhinoviruses. You aren’t alone in facing such confusion; it’s one of those ailments that brings a lot of myths and facts together. Generally, these viruses spread through the air via droplets when someone coughs or sneezes or through hand-to-nose or hand-to-eye contact after touching surfaces that have viral particles on them.
Regarding your questions on stress and cold air: Stress can indeed weaken your immune system, making you more vulnerable to infections, including the common cold. So, there’s some truth in what your friend suggested. As for cold weather, being in the cold doesn’t directly cause a cold, but it might increase your susceptibility as people tend to stay indoors and in close proximity to each other, facilitating the spread of the virus.
In Siddha-Ayurveda, the balance of your doshas—vata, pitta, and kapha—plays a crucial role in your susceptibility to illnesses. An imbalance, often with aggravated kapha dosha, can manifest as cold symptoms. Here are a few tips to try and prevent future colds and maintain balance:
1. Diet and Nutrition: Incorporate warm, cooked meals with spices like ginger, pepper, and turmeric to boost your agni (digestive fire) and strengthen your immunity.
2. Stress Management: Engage in daily meditation, pranayama (breath control exercises), or yoga to alleviate stress and help maintain the balance of your doshas.
3. Hygiene Habits: Regularly wash your hands with soap and limit touching your face with unwashed hands.
4. Herbal Remedies: Consuming herbal teas made from tulsi (holy basil), ginger, and clove can soothe the throat and enhance your body’s defense mechanisms.
Remember, enhancing your environment’s humidity might also help since viruses tend to thrive in dry air. If symptoms persist or seem severe, always seek medical attention promptly, as conditions like a fever could indicate something more serious.
