which food is good for cold and cough - #38021
I am really struggling with this nasty cold and cough that just won't go away. It started about a week ago with a tickle in my throat and just escalated. Now, I have this constant cough that feels like it comes from my chest and I can't seem to breathe without feeling a sharp pain sometimes. I've tried honey and lemon, and a bunch of over-the-counter medicine, but honestly, it’s hard to tell if it's doing anything. I feel kinda lost about what to do next!! I really want to try some natural remedies, you know? Like, which food is good for cold and cough? I’ve heard some people say that ginger tea can be helpful, but would it really help me? Also read something about turmeric and its benefits for a cough – is that really true? Or like, are there any specific soups or broths that can help bring me some comfort or heal faster? It's so annoying, this feeling of just being stuck in the same place with this cold and cough. Gimme any tips you got! Do you think incorporating certain foods would actually help, or should I just ride this out with whatever meds I have? Help me out!!😩
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Doctors' responses
For a persistent cold and cough, Ayurveda offers several dietary suggestions that can provide relief and support your body’s natural healing process. The focus is to soothe the irritation, reduce phlegm and strengthen your immunity.
Considering the symptoms you describe, ginger (Zingiber officinale) is indeed an excellent choice. Ginger tea might not only relieve the sore throat but also serve to break down the mucus that’s causing you discomfort. For preperation, boil 1 cup of water with a few slices of fresh ginger for about 10 minutes, then strain and drink it warm. You might add a spoonful of honey if you like – it’s beneficial to coat your throat and potentially reduce cough.
Turmeric (Curcuma longa), known for its anti-inflammatory properties, can be particularly effective. Try mixing a half-teaspoon of turmeric powder in a glass of warm milk, potentially with a pinch of black pepper, before bedtime. The milk-fat can help lubricate the throat, while turmeric assist in reducing the inflammation.
Soups and broths, particularly those made from chicken, can bolster your recovery. Chicken soup, traditionally considered nourishing, may help alleviate symptoms by clearing nasal congestion and acting as a natural decongestant due to hot steam. Make sure to incorporate garlic and black pepper in the broth for added immunity.
Pippali rasayana, an Ayurvedic remedy, can also be very effective. Pippali (long pepper) mixed with honey, consumed twice a day, could potentially improve respiratory health and reduce phlegm.
Also, keep hydrated with warm water throughout the day; it can flush out toxins. Rest and hydration stay vital; they support the immune system in combatting infection. Culinary herbs like thyme and black cumin may also help reduce cough intensity.
But, if the pain during breathing persists or escalates consult with a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying issues, as this could signal a more severe condition needing immediate attention. Avoid delay in taking medical advise if symptoms fail to improve.

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