When dealing with a cold and cough, especially as persistent, you might consider moderating your intake of curd. According to Siddha-Ayurvedic principles, curd is considered to have cooling properties and can aggravate Kapha. Since cold and cough are generally associated with an imbalance in the Kapha dosha, consuming curd, particularly in the evening, might not be the best idea.
Curd has a natural tendency to increase mucus production—something you naturally want to avoid when you’re experiencing cold symptoms. However, if you usually enjoy curd and feel it’s an important part of your diet, you can have it in moderation, preferably during when your digestive fire, or agni, is at its peak, like during lunch. Make sure it’s fresh and not sour. Adding a pinch of black pepper or dry ginger powder to the curd can help mitigate its Kapha increasing qualities a bit.
Apart from this, continue with your home remedies like honey and ginger if they generally provide relief, although they may take some time to show results. Honey, especially, is considered effective in pacifying Kapha and easing a cough. You might also want to try warm herbal teas infused with tulsi (holy basil), ginger, or licorice root, which are indicated for respiratory issues.
While you experiment with dietary changes, listen to your body. If symptoms persist or worsen significantly, seeking in-person consultation with a qualified healthcare provider is advised. Such persistent colds may sometimes require more detailed examination for underlying causes that need attention. Remember, it’s important to align remedies to your unique constitution and the specific characteristics of your symptoms.
