Natural cures from Ayurveda: Use tulsi, mulethi, and peppermint in home remedies for coughs and sore throats

Cure for sore throat and cough: Drinking Tulsi tea or inhaling Tulsi-infused steam can significantly relieve sore throats and support respiratory health (Image: Canva)

During the monsoon season, respiratory issues such as coughs and sore throats become more prevalent due to the increased humidity and fluctuating temperatures. This time of year creates a conducive environment for the proliferation of viruses and bacteria, which can lead to these common ailments. To combat these issues, several home remedies and Ayurvedic herbs offer effective relief.

Ayurveda offers a natural and holistic approach to healing. This time-honored system of medicine, rooted in the principles of balance and harmony, provides effective remedies using a diverse range of herbs known for their therapeutic properties, says Dr Sandip Mali, MD, PhD (Sch) Ayurveda Medical Advisor at Charak Pharma.

He adds, “Ayurveda's holistic approach utilises natural herbs to address common ailments such as coughs and sore throats. Also, herbs are not just remedies but integral components of a comprehensive healing system. They work by balancing the body's energies, reducing inflammation, and promoting wellness."

Dr Mali suggests 6 prominent Ayurvedic herbs that can offer relief from coughs and sore throats:

Liquorice root: Known as Mulethi, Liquorice root or Yashtimadhu contains glabridin and glycyrrhizin, which soothe throat irritation and reduce inflammation. It is commonly used in teas or lozenges to ease discomfort and support respiratory health.

Also read | Indian licorice (mulethi) is an acquired taste. These restaurants are adding it to food and drinks

Dry ginger: With compounds like gingerols and shogaols, dry ginger also called Shunthi, helps reduce inflammation in the throat and chest, reducing irritation and aiding mucus expulsion. Shunthi tea, often combined with honey, is a potent remedy for easing throat discomfort and congestion.

Tulsi: Tulsi’s leaves are rich in linalool and eugenol, offering antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory benefits. Drinking Tulsi tea or inhaling Tulsi-infused steam can significantly relieve sore throats and support respiratory health.

Peppermint extract: Pudina Sattva, or peppermint extract, derived from peppermint, provides a cooling effect that soothes throat irritation and helps open nasal passages. Consuming it as tea or inhaling it through steam can quickly alleviate cough and respiratory discomfort.

Bibhitaki: Part of the Triphala formula, Bibhitaki contains gallic acid, chebulinic acid, and ellagic acid, which aid in clearing mucus from the respiratory tract and support lung health.

Haldi: Turmeric, or haldi, known for its compound curcumin, has strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Drinking turmeric milk or tea helps reduce inflammation, soothes the throat, and speeds up recovery from infections.