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Winter is typically associated with all things shiny and glittery as luminous Christmas decorations as well as other festive treats and delights throng the city streets. It is indeed one of the most festive and magical times of the year. But, unfortunately, this time of the year is also marked by respiratory illnesses and infections, such as chest congestion, sore throat, and seasonal flu.
Medical experts and journals, including John Hopkins Medicine, attribute these illnesses to the fact people tend to spend more time indoors during winter to escape the chilly outdoors weather. People also typically keep their windows shut during this time to keep out the cold. In this way, close contact and a lack of ventilation creates a breeding ground for viruses to spread and multiply.
There are certain doctor-prescribed, over-the-counter measures, such as antibiotics and nasal drops that can be used to deal with the seasonal infections brought on by the winter. However, these measures may not provide one immediate rest and relief; they may take about a few days to a week to take effect. In such instances, it is preferable to stick to homemade remedies that have been known to heal winter-related respiratory conditions since ancient times.
Here are some homemade beverages to help control cold, cough, and other winter-related ailments.
Ginger Tea
Over time, ginger has proven be one of the most powerful tools in combatting a sore throat. The ginger spice acts as a natural anti-inflammatory agent, reducing congestion as well as inflammation, and relieving one of a sore throat. One of the most effective ways of consuming this spice is in the form of tea. Dunk your ginger tea bag in a glass or a cup of boiling water, let the water blend thoroughly with the mixture, and keep sipping on the hot tea for a calming effect on the throat.
Honey-Infused Lemon Water
Like ginger, honey is a natural ingredient that assists one in recovering from cold and cough infections. For best and timely results, introduce two tablespoons of honey in a glass of warm water, add a few drops of lemon, and drink the mixture. As honey is a cough suppressant, it blocks the agents that cause inflammation and congestion within the throat and chest, providing the drinker a sense of comfort. What’s more, the dulcet notes of honey combined with the sour hints of the lemon imbibe the water with a delicious flavour, making this homemade beverage a favourite among children.
Turmeric Milk
Every Indian household would be familiar with turmeric milk, fondly referred to as “haldi doodh.” It is one of the oldest anti-inflammation remedies, and the sight of this beverage is sure to conjure up childhood memories for several readers. The fact remains that turmeric is one of the most potent fighters against winter-borne infections, being an antiviral as well as an antioxidant in addition to an anti-inflammatory. Thanks to the aforementioned qualities, turmeric milk serves as a healing balm, clearing the airways of one’s throat and nose as well as boosting one’s immunity.
Hot Chocolate
This beverage may be surprising to some but hot chocolate when prepared using the right ingredients can be a formidable antidote to cold and cough infections. Ensure that you use dark chocolate to make the milk drink, as this type of chocolate is loaded with antioxidants which fight against viruses and infections. Further, immunity boosters, such as cinnamon and cayenne pepper can be added to the hot chocolate mixture to produce a delicious, healthy, and hearty beverage.
Apple Cider
The adage “An apple a day keeps the doctor away,” holds true even when it comes to fighting seasonal flus, cough, and cold infections. The red juicy fruit is rich in Vitamin C, which aids in quick recovery as well as regeneration of bodily wears and tears. When blended with apple cider, which in itself is a warming and soothing agent, the resulting drink acts as a worthy salve for people fighting cold and cough illnesses. It is hardly surprising that apple cider is so popular during winter, being infused with healing and medicinal qualities that keep winter-related ailments at bay.
