What is Cough & Cold?
Cough and cold arise due to viral infections, weather changes, weakened immunity, allergies or respiratory irritation.
Ayurveda describes this under Kapha imbalance with varying involvement of Vata (dry cough) and Pitta (burning sore throat).
Symptoms include congestion, productive/mucus cough, dry cough, sneezing, throat irritation and blocked sinuses.
Common symptoms
- Nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing
- Dry or productive cough
- Throat irritation / post-nasal drip
- Mild fever, heaviness in head
- Loss of appetite, low energy
Ayurvedic understanding
Cough & cold are primarily caused by aggravated Kapha accumulating in the head, throat and chest.
Vata triggers dryness and coughing spells, while Pitta may cause burning sore throat or yellow phlegm.
Treatment focuses on clearing Kapha, improving Agni (digestion), opening sinuses and strengthening immunity.
Safety Note
Ayurvedic care works best for mild to moderate cough/cold.
If you have persistent high fever, breathlessness, chest pain or symptoms beyond 1 week — medical evaluation is essential.
Ayurvedic Therapies for Cough & Cold
These clinic therapies help open sinuses, melt Kapha, reduce throat irritation, support lung function and speed recovery.
Swedan (Steam Therapy)
What it is: Full-body herbal steam that melts Kapha and clears congestion.
- Relieves blocked nose and heaviness in head
- Loosens chest phlegm and enhances breathing
- Often combined with Abhyanga for better results
Nadi Swedan (Targeted Steam)
What it is: Localized steam applied to chest, throat or face.
- Opens sinuses and reduces nasal blockage
- Very effective for persistent chest congestion
Nasyam (Nasal Detox)
What it is: Medicated oils/herbs administered into the nose.
- Clears sinus blockage and headache
- Reduces sneezing, irritation and post-nasal drip
- Strengthens upper respiratory immunity
Patra Potli (Herbal Leaf Poultice)
What it is: Warm bolus of anti-inflammatory leaves applied on chest/back.
- Relieves chest tightness and cough-related muscle pain
- Improves circulation and reduces inflammation
Churn Potli (Herbal Powder Poultice)
What it is: Warm herbal powder bolus used on chest & upper back.
- Helps break Kapha mucus congestion
- Reduces sore throat and cough intensity
Udvartana (Kapha-Reducing Massage)
What it is: Dry herbal powder massage to reduce Kapha buildup.
- Improves circulation & lymphatic drainage
- Useful in chronic cold, repeated infections and weak immunity
Abhyanga (Oil Massage)
What it is: Warm herbal oil massage to support immunity & breathing.
- Opens channels and improves lung expansion
- Reduces fatigue, stress and body ache
Shirodhara (Nervous System Support)
What it is: Gentle oil flow over forehead.
- Useful in chronic cold linked to stress
- Improves sleep & supports immune recovery
Herbs, Diet & Home Support
- Tulsi: Antiviral, antioxidant, clears Kapha
- Pippali: Excellent for cough & lung health
- Ginger: Improves Agni, reduces throat irritation
- Yashtimadhu: Soothes dry cough & sore throat
- Diet: Warm soups, moong khichdi, light meals
- Avoid: Cold foods, curd at night, ice cream, oily food
- Steam inhalation: 1–2 times/day
- Hydration: Warm water, herbal tea
Sample Healing Plans
Acute Cough/Cold (Day 1–3)- Steam inhalation + Nadi Swedan
- Ginger–Tulsi–Honey herbal support
- Light diet, warm water
Kapha-Dominant Cold- Swedan + Churn Potli
- Nasyam (after initial reduction)
- Udvartana for Kapha reduction
Chronic Recurrent Colds- Strengthening herbs + immunity support
- Nasya + Udvartana + Abhyanga
- Lifestyle & diet correction
Need personalised Ayurvedic care for cough/cold?
Book a consultation — we assess symptoms, throat/nasal pattern, digestion and prescribe a customised plan.
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