Top Ayurvedic Diet Tips To Fight Air Pollution

Ginger

Long used for its ability to relieve symptoms of cold and cough, this root is very effective in strengthening our lungs. Its medicinal use can be traced back 2500 years. It helps breakdown mucous, making breathing easier. It is also associated with increasing the blood circulation to the lungs and reducing inflammation.

Usage: A ginger tea made with honey is an easy way to ingest ginger.

Trifala/Triphala

Triphala calms the imbalance in the three doshas, according to Ayurvedic literature. By doing so, it helps in strengthening the immune system of our body and protects us from the ill effects of pollution.

Usage: 1 tsp of Triphala powder with 1 teaspoon of honey is what is mostly recommended.

Tulsi

Rich in the lung vitamin, Vitamin C and compounds like Camphene, Eugenol and Cineole, Tulsi is been used for treating lung infections and damage. It is said to heal damages caused by smoking, so this makes it a perfect must-have for protection against air pollution. Tulsi is said to be purifying- it is kept at homes and around temples because of its ability to purify the air. So in addition to eating its leaves, we must also grow it in our homes.

Usage: each family has its own personal recipe. The easiest is making an infusion with ginger, tulsi and honey or gur.

Pippali

Pepper is considered the queen of spices for respiratory health. It has long been used for rejuvenation of lungs and respiratory system in Ayurveda. Pippali is also shown to have very strong anti-inflammatory properties, helping control the oxidative stress brought about by air pollution.

Usage: 2-3 gms boiled in 2 cups of water and taken 1tsp at a time as per Ayurveda, but the suggestion is to consult a practitioner for the correct dose.

Ajwain

Also known as Ajwain has several health benefits- it improves digestion, helps expel excess gas and prevents gas formation. Rich in fibre, antioxidants, and other vitamins and minerals, emerging scientific evidence is showing that Ajwain is a strong antifungal and antibacterial action. It is also found to improve airflow to the lungs and have an anti-coughing effect.

Usage: Add it to your chapati dough. Soak 1 teaspoon in 1-litre water overnight and drink it 1 glass at a time.

Here Are Some Home Remedies To Other Air Pollution-Related Illness:

– Your Skin may also be irritated by air pollution. Applying oil of Arjun bark or Cedar bark helps. A paste of Sandalwood, Manjishtha and rose water on the skin also alleviate itchiness. And, of course, a hot water bath works the best

– Burning/Itchiness of the eyes: Ayurveda recommends that we can apply cotton wool dipped in cow’s milk on our eye lids for 5 minutes each three times a day. Another way to soothe our eyes is to make a poultice of Licorice + Turmeric and rose petal, all powdered. Dip this in milk and apply to your eyelids externally.

– Having Nasal Irritation can be overcome with a nasal rinse of Licorice and turmeric water. Applying two drops of coconut, sesame, almond oil or ghee in the nasal cavity also helps to breathe easy, according to the Ayurveda.