More than the coronavirus itself the fear of Coronavirus has gripped the world, especially India. With the growing number of cases each day, it is understandable for people to suspect themselves to be infected with carved-19 after a slight increase in body temperature or cough.
However, as the monsoon season is here, people need to understand the basic sicknesses it brings along. Seasonal changes can lead to common flu symptoms in individuals like a blocked nose, headaches, breathing difficulties, body aches, fever, muscular stiffness, etc.
While being cautious is important and a coronavirus test is recommended if one feels that they are infected, it might also just be a usual case of seasonal flu.
Monsoon inadvertently brings humidity with itself after summer gushes out the moisture from our skin, which can result in flu-like symptoms.
Dr. KunalManek, an Ayurveda Consultant and Panchakarma Physician, has advised ways to help the build-up of better immunity and respiration with at-home tips.
Consumption of turmeric milk:
When in doubt, choose the age-old and proven method! Turmeric or Haldi as more commonly known is a magic spice present in every Indian kitchen. It is often used as a treatment for many ailments. Turmeric is regarded as an Ayurvedic medicine due to its active component, Curcumin. This has anti-oxidant properties that help in healing wounds. This is the reason why grandparents urge young children to consume more of turmeric milk. The anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal agents present in turmeric help strengthen the immune system and make it less susceptible to infections and more resistant to potential viruses.
Practice Steam Inhalation:
Steam therapy is one of the most commonly used home remedies to build better respiratory health by soothing common cough and cold. These are the illnesses usually caught by the body during seasonal changes. Its efficacy can be improved by adding ayurvedic ingredients like Pudina (Mint) leaves and Ajwain (Caraway seeds) that aids in treating dry cough and sore throat. One or two teaspoons of a medicated rub in a bowl of hot water can also be chosen to get relieved. The bowl can also contain Pudina, Ajwain, Kapoor&Nilgiri for faster relief of cough and cold symptoms.
These rubs are easily available at pharmacies that are safe for usage for adults and kids aged six years and above. Knowing the constituents of the rub written on its label before buying it is often advised. However, one may also consult their doctor for better understanding.
Eat a Balanced Diet
A balanced and nutrition rich diet is suggested all year long, irrespective of whether one is sick or not. Having a good meal with perfect harmony of the levels of carbohydrates, proteins, and more can help the body fight infections without a need for drugs. One needs to strengthen immunity through immunity boosting foods and supplements. Empowering body with vitamins, minerals and fiber from fruits, vegetables and grains support your immune system and make it stronger to withstand harmful bacteria and fight them.
Staying Active
An inactive life is no good for the immune system. It not only makes one lazier but also creates windows in the body, attracting illnesses. A daily exercise session of atleast an hour is vital to pull the body out of its hibernation mode. It is important to understand that exercises also calm your mind, body and soul and improve the overall lifestyle of the individual, relaxing the nerves. Yoga is a great way to give one’s body the energy. Any known asana or just the Surya Namaskar in the morning as well strengthens core, making the body strong and enhancing the respiratory health.
The Ministry of AYUSH had recently issued self-care guidelines for preventive health measures and boosting immunity with special reference to respiratory health. The guidelines included doing regular steam inhalations with fresh Pudina (Mint) leaves or Ajwain (Caraway seeds) once in a day to help in decongestion, consuming Haldi milk, which contains an antioxidant, and practicing Yoga to maintain overall health. India’s PM too suggests Yoga for maintaining health and gaining mental peace.
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Over-the-counter medications:
When all things fail, you can always opt for over-the-counter painkillers or anti-pyretics to get free from the illness. A simple paracetamol is sometimes all it takes to tackle the annoying headache or fever.
However, if you haven’t taken any such medications without a doctor’s prescription, a video call if you want to remain safe during the pandemic or an in-person appointment session can be opted.
