Respiratory infections in monsoon: 5 home remedies to keep cold and cough at bay

The pitter-patter of the rain may make you reach for those delicious pakoras, but you can’t deny that monsoon brings with it a lot of health problems such as respiratory infections. These infections are something I have been prone to since childhood. But thanks to my mother, it has never really aggravated in my case. Not one, she has 5 remedies for respiratory infections such as the common cold. While I have faith in my mom’s home remedies, you should consult a medical expert before trying them out, Let’s know if they actually work.

Why are respiratory infections common in monsoon?

A sudden shift in the weather is the perfect ground for viruses to flourish, which is why people become prone to infections during this season. Respiratory infections during monsoon can lead to problems such as fatigue, sore throat, chest congestion, and runny nose. Dry indoor atmosphere, dehydration, and wrong eating habits can increase mucus, which causes the infection to spread even further. This is the reason why you need to be extra careful during the monsoon season. It is crucial to keep yourself healthy to keep cold and cough in monsoon at bay.

Did you know cold and flu virus are spread through droplets during monsoon? As per the US Library of Medicine, the infected person releases droplets containing the virus into the air. You become a victim of these infections as soon as you touch your face, eyes, or nose with your hands containing the virus.

How to keep infections in monsoon away?

These home remedies can help you get rid of respiratory infections in the following ways:

1. Ginger, clove and mint tea

Natural herbs have been proven to be beneficial for your health for centuries. They contain medicinal properties that can help strengthen the immune system. Drinking tea made using ginger, clove, and mint might prove more beneficial to ward off infections. A study published in the International Journal of Health Sciences found that ginger contains therapeutic properties that can help you get rid of infections such as cold and cough. Studies have also shown that mint and clove contain properties that can help fight off infections and provide some relief from congestion.

2. Include vitamin C in the diet

Has your mom ever asked you to eat more citrus fruits such as amla, lemon, orange, kiwi and strawberry? You should take vitamin C supplements regularly will not only keep common monsoon infections at bay but help keep yourself healthy. Include more fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C in your diet.

3. Eucalyptus oil

Eucalyptus oil contains eucalyptol, which has properties to help you get rid of congestion and phlegm. Apply some eucalyptus oil on your chest to let the accumulated phlegm start wearing off. Studies have also found that it could be beneficial in removing the bacteria present in the nose and chest.

4. Gargle with salt water

One of the most basic remedies by all mothers is salt water gargles to get rid of a soar throat. Mix some salt in a glass of water and then gargle. Drinking this concoction helps the bacteria and phlegm to get removed from the throat. It may also provide relief from throat pain and cough.

5. Stay hydrated

Well, this one is not exactly something only my mom recommends. It is a known universal fact that drinking water helps prevent the accumulation of mucus in the throat. You can also drink some lukewarm water to keep the throat and chest clear. Plus, it is important to drink water to avoid dehydration, which is the root cause of several problems such as chest congestion. Drink 8-10 glasses every day to keep the viruses that cause infections at bay.

More tips to keep respiratory infections in monsoon at bay

Keep common respiratory infections such as cold and cough in monsoon away with these tips, suggested by the World Health Organisation.

• Avoid going near sick people as it will make you vulnerable to catching the infection.
• Wash hands and face immediately after coming in contact with an infected person. This automatically reduces your chances of developing an infection.
• Don’t forget to get flu shots. It will help strengthen your immune system strong and help you fight off infections.
• Avoid touching windows, doors and chairs when you go to public places. Don’t forget to clean or sanitize your hands when you do.
• Do not drink water from bottles and glasses used by others. This increases the risk of spreading the disease.
• While these tips may help, it is always a good idea to consult your healthcare provider to keep diseases at bay.