Keeping colds at bay with Ayurveda
As we approach the heart of winter with its beautiful crisp days we also face the cold and flu season.
Have you thought about turning to Ayurveda instead of using pharmaceuticals?
Like most things health-related, it’s always best to begin with prevention. So, implement these remedies prior to, or at the first sign of a cold or flu, and carry them through as treatment if needed.
- Amalaki is the Indian Gooseberry and can supplement and boost immunity, helping to ward off colds and flu with its rich source of Vitamin C
- Honey and cinnamon is good for chronic coughs, blocked sinuses and immunity. Take ¼ teaspoon of cinnamon powder with a tablespoon of lukewarm organic honey, three times a day
- Ginger, lemon and honey tea is good for hydration, immunity, sore throats and digestive balance. Add thinly sliced fresh ginger, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and raw organic honey to a glass of warm water. It’s very important to stay hydrated for optimal immune function, and ginger is beneficial for fighting infection and fever.
- Eucalyptus facial steam to clear away mucus. Add 5-10 drops of eucalyptus essential oil to a bowl of warm water. Lean over the bowl and place a towel over your head; take deep breaths through the nose for five minutes
- Salt water gargle. Dissolve 1/3 teaspoon of salt in one cup of warm water. Gargle three times daily to loosen mucus and remove bacteria from the throat. It will also provide some temporary relief for a sore or itchy throat.
- Mahasudarshana churna for sinus infections, headaches, nausea and fever. Mahasudarshana churna is known as the Ayurvedic antibiotic because it fights bacteria, viral, and fungal infections. It is a potent anti-inflammatory and expectorant. Combine ½ teaspoon of Mahasudarshana churna with half a cup of warm water. Drink every morning when suffering from colds or flu for relief from their host of symptoms.
- Pranayama breathing. Prolonged coughing, sneezing and lack of exercise can all contribute to breathing-related constriction of the chest. Pranayama techniques such as three-part-breath can ease constriction and stiffness. Completely fill your lungs slowly as if you were breathing into your stomach, then ribcage, then upper chest. Exhale completely in the reverse order.
- Kapalbhati Pranayam for congestion and digestive trouble. Inhale slowly and then exhale with great force, feeling your abdominal muscles contract as your exhale. After 15 exhalations, inhale and exhale deeply. Complete three rounds of 15 exhalations, with short breaks between rounds. The pranayama will clear sinuses and stimulate digestion.
To find out more about Ayurveda or to book your Body or Facial Ritual to help boost your winter immunity, please call 0433 090 696.
