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Herbal Cough Syrups And Their Benefits

Published On: Jan 5, 2023

Last Updated: Dec 5, 2024

When we hear Allopathy cough syrup, we first think it will make us sleepy. Herbal cough syrups are a great alternative to traditional over-the-counter and prescription medications for treating colds and coughs.

Coughing is a healthy reflex that helps clear your airways of irritants like dust, smoke, or bacteria. It helps clear your lungs and throat of mucus and other substances that can cause irritation and infection. When you cough, you're clearing your airways and helping your body eliminate anything that doesn't belong there. But medical attention is required if the cough lasts several weeks or is due to a cold. In this blog, we will explore the many benefits of using herbal cough syrups and look at different types of herbal cough syrups, their ingredients, and their potential health benefits. So, let's get started!

Herbal Cough Syrup and Its Benefits

Herbal cough syrup is a natural remedy for cough and cold symptoms. It is made from various herbs known to have beneficial properties for treating coughs and colds. The herbs used can vary depending on the brand and type of syrup, but some of the most common herbs include elderberry, slippery elm, licorice, honey, and eucalyptus.

The benefits of using herbal cough syrup include the following:

It can relieve symptoms of colds and coughs, such as congestion, coughing, and sore throat.
It can help soothe and improve the respiratory system.
It can boost the immune system and help the body fight infections.
It can reduce inflammation in the respiratory system.
It can help to loosen and expel mucus from the lungs, thus providing relief from congestion.
It can reduce coughing and help you sleep better.
It is a natural and safe alternative to prescription medications.

Herbal cough syrups can be taken orally or added to hot water and taken as a tea. As with any natural remedy, it is important to check with your healthcare provider before taking any herbal medicines.

Also read: Ways to Strengthen Immunity this Winter.

Top 6 Herbal Cough Syrups

1. Hamdard Joshina Syrup

Hamdard Joshina is a herbal cough syrup used to treat mild to moderate chest congestion, cough, and throat irritation. It is made from twelve essential herbs. Some herbs include ashwagandha, long pepper, and black pepper, which have anti-inflammatory, expectorant, and anti-bacterial properties. Hamdard Joshina syrup de-clogs nasal congestion and soothes the sore throat.

Dosage:

Adults- 2 tsp in lukewarm water twice a day.
Children- 1 tsp in lukewarm water twice a day.

2. Dabur Honitus Herbal Cough Remedy

Dabur Honitus Herbal Cough Remedy is an Ayurvedic formulation made up of natural herbs and other ingredients that reduce coughing and throat irritation. This cough syrup uses widely in India. The cough syrup contains tulsi extract, which reduces inflammation and irritation in the respiratory system. It also contains other herbs like vasa, kantakari, and mulethi, which have expectorant and demulcent properties. It helps to relieve coughing and throat irritation and is an ideal remedy for those suffering from colds, flu, and other respiratory conditions.

Dosage:

Dabur Honitus Herbal Cough Remedy is suitable for all age groups.

Adults: 2 teaspoons 3-4 times a day
Children: 1 teaspoon 3-4 times a day

Conclusion

Herbal cough syrups can be a great way to treat a cough and other respiratory illnesses naturally. They tend to be more affordable and have fewer side effects than over-the-counter medications, making them an attractive option for those looking for an alternative to traditional treatments. Herbal remedies have been used for centuries to treat various ailments, and many are effective in treating coughs. However, it is important to remember that while herbal remedies may be effective, they are not always safe. Before using any herbal remedy, you can consult Unani or Ayurvedic experts from HealthyBazar.com.

This article is written/approved by:

Dr. Asfiya Najmi

A graduate from Hamdard University, Dr Asfiya is dedicated to providing natural treatments and comfort to every patient through her extensive knowledge and experience. In addition to medical practice, she has a passion for playing volleyball and chess.

Home Remedies and Ayurvedic Treatment For Diarrhea

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Home Remedies and Ayurvedic Treatment For Diarrhea: Diarrhea is the condition described by loose, watery stools that occur more frequently than usual. Diarrhea is a problem of the digestive system in which the patient has to clear the bowels repeatedly. The characteristics of this disease are liquid stool, bloating, gas, and cramping. If the bowel movements do not become regular in a few days, it is necessary to consult a doctor to stop severe dehydration.

As per WHO, “More than 2.3 million annual deaths were reported among children in India, and about 3,34,000 are attributable to diarrhoeal diseases. Rotavirus is the leading cause of severe Diarrhea in children in developed and developing countries.

Ayurveda And Diarrhoea

According to Ayurveda, the causes of Diarrhea are weakened digestive fire, usually caused by excess Pitta. Ayurvedic remedies pacify Pitta and kindle the digestive fire gently. There are various strategies specifically to counter Pitta’s hot, sharp, and liquid qualities. Also, it supports the return of regular bowel movements. It is also related to Jatharagni Mandya (low digestive fire).

According to the Ayurvedic treatment for Diarrhea, weak digestive fire, improper food, impure water, toxins, and mental stress usually cause Diarrhea. Aggravated Vata pulls down the fluid part from various tissues of the body and brings it into the intestine. This fluid mixes with the stool, which then leads to loose, watery motions. Depending upon which particular Dosha is vitiated, Atisaar (Diarrhea) has been classified into Vataj, Pittaj, Kaphaj, Sannipatik,

Also Read: Home Remedies For Diabetes Treatment

Symptoms Of Diarrhea

Having at least three loose motions in 24 hours is considered to be Diarrhea in modern science, which affects all age groups at one time or another. It can range in severity from slightly watery feces and a brief upset stomach to longer-term to extremely liquid wastes and cramping tummy pains. The following are the symptoms of Diarrhea:

Increased defecation frequency
Watery motions
Abdomen cramps
Reduced urine quantity
Mucous with stools
Dehydration, thirst, and bad-smelling from the mouth

Ayurvedic Symptoms

As per Ayurveda, Diarrhea can be caused due to bad dietary and lifestyle habits. Here are symptoms of Diarrhea according to classical Ayurvedic texts:

1. Amatisara: The stool in this kind of Diarrhea is Picchila (slimy) with a foul smell that sinks in water, known as Amatisara.

2. Pakvatisara: Diarrhea with the feeling of lightness in the body and stool that does not sink in water is known as Pakvatisara.

Causes Of Diarrhea

The primary cause of Diarrhea is gastrointestinal tract infections. It can also occur due to various other issues that vary from one person to another. Here are some common causes of Diarrhea:

Consumption of contaminated foods or water
Low immune response and poor hygienic conditions
Consumption of spicy or heavy food; difficult to digest
The adverse effect of antibiotics
Lactose intolerance
Diarrhea can occur with other diseases like; ulcerative colitis, celiac disease, and irritable bowel syndrome.
Radiotherapy, Chemotherapy, and Antibiotic reaction
Excessive alcohol consumption
Viral infection, Rotavirus, Norovirus, and Adenovirus

Ayurvedic Treatment For Diarrhea

In most cases, Diarrhea can be managed at home. A patient in a severe case has lost a lot of water due to loose motion, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention. In simple cases, when the patient has 4-5 bouts of loose activity, he or she can be given electrolytes. A straightforward electrolyte form mixes 1 teaspoon sugar and a pinch of salt in a glass of boiled, cooled & filtered water. Similarly, the patient may need Intravenous (I.V) electrolytes which is also sometimes known as ‘Saline Water’ in India.

Home Remedies

You can treat Diarrhea with home remedies. Some home remedies include simple kitchen ingredients, and for some, you need some herbs. These herbs are readily available in the market. Here are some simple kitchen and herb-based home remedies for Diarrhea:

Simple Kitchen Based Recipes

Take 5 gms powder of dry roast cumin (Bhrishta Jiraka) or root of Motha (Mustaka) or fruit of Pippali (long pepper) or Shunthi (dried ginger) and mix with 1 liter of Takra (buttermilk) and divide into four droughts; take doses at the interval of six hours.
1 to 3 gm(s) of dried ginger (Shunthī) powder with an equal part of Sharkara (raw sugar) two times a day as it helps to relieve the symptoms of Ama.
Add a pinch of finely grated ginger with honey and eat. Do not drink water immediately afterward; wait for 10 minutes.
Blend 1/2 cup of fresh plain yogurt (ideally homemade), 1/2 cup of water, and ⅛ teaspoon fresh grated ginger, and drink. This probiotic drink is easy to digest, and it gently kindles Agni.
Take 50 gms of fresh pomegranate skin. Soak it in 800 ml of water for one hour. Boil until a quarter of the volume remains (200 ml). Store this mixture in a clean dry bottle. Take a couple of tablespoons several times a day. If there is blood in the stools, add half a teaspoon of honey to the decoction.

Simple Preparations With Ayurvedic Herbs For Diarrhea

1. Take the powder of Indrayava (kurchi seed), Tvak-Dalachini (cinnamon bark), the root of Ushira (Khas), the seed of Jambu (Jamun), and fruit pulp of Bilva (bael) in the same quantity. Consume 3 to 6 gms after mixing with Takra (buttermilk) three times a day.

2. Mix powder of Purana Laja (pop of old paddy), the fruit of Dhanyaka (coriander), and Mocharasa (silk-cotton tree resin) in the same quantity. Add fruit of Śatapuṣpā (fennel) powder to the mixture. Consume 3 to 6 g. of this powder with warm water two times a day.

3. Take Powder of Jatiphala or Jaiphala (nutmeg), the fruit of Jiraka (cumin), and the fruit pulp of Bilva (bael) in equal quantities. Add grounded Churṇodaka (lime water) in the mixture and make pills of 800 mg. Take one pill in the morning with Taṇḍulodaka (water obtained from the washing of raw rice) in the case of Pitta Pradhana Atisara, and with Karpura-Ambu (camphorated water) in case of Kapha Pradhana Atisara.

Ayurvedic Medicines For Diarrhea

Along with the home remedies, various Ayurvedic formulations help to treat Diarrhea and its related issues. These Ayurvedic formulations will also help to keep you hydrated and remove stomach infections. Here are the Ayurvedic medicines for Diarrhea:

Himalaya Diarex Tablet

Diarex Tablet is an Ayurvedic medicine preparation of herbs like Kutaja and Bilwa, which have astringent and antimicrobial properties. It ensures the normal functioning of gastrointestinal health.

This medicine eliminates common microorganisms responsible for acute and chronic infectious Diarrhea. Also, it helps to treat colic, bloating, fungal infections, microbial infections, oxidative stress, fungal infection, diabetes, and other conditions.

Dose – 2 tablets twice a day with plain water.

Maharishi Ayurveda Ambimap Tablets

Ambimap is a unique combination of Ayurvedic herbs in treating Diarrhea, dysentery, and parasitic intestinal disease. It possesses a multi-directional approach to control Diarrhea and Dysentery.

Ambimap is very beneficial in controlling and curing loose stools caused by harmful viruses, bacteria, or parasites. It counteracts parasitic infection and helps to balance the metabolic fire (Agni) and digestion. It effectively controls spasmodic episodes, and the patient gets relief very quickly.

Dose – 1 tablet thrice a day with plain water

Diet And Lifestyle Modifications

As per Ayurveda, a healthy diet and lifestyle help to treat various diseases and disorders. Diarrhea is related to the stomach infection that at some point causes due to unhealthy food and lifestyle. Also, to maintain your digestive health and treat Diarrhea, you should consider these modifications in your diet and lifestyle:

Consume water and liquid foods in sufficient amounts.
Consume light, easy-to-digest food, for example, liquid rice, porridge.
Soups made from lentils are also suitable for Diarrhea. Additionally, you can consume fruits like sweet lime, Oranges, Apples, and Melons.
Avoid Non-veg items, eggs are also not allowed.
Also, consume boiled water.
Include cow milk and goat milk in your diet
Avoid food that produces gas formation, for example, beans, cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, meat, fish, etc.
Avoid sweets, sugary drinks, carbonated beverages, fermented food items, and caffeinated foods.
Stress, restlessness, and late-night awakening should be avoided.
The timing of the meal should not vary, and specifically, one should consume dinner two-three hours before bedtime.
Try to stay out of the sun to prevent fluid loss through sweat.

Infographic

Please find below the infographic on “Home Remedies and Ayurvedic Treatment For Diarrhea”. Feel free to use this infographic but make sure to cite us at www.healthybazar.com.

Conclusion

Ayurvedic Treatment For Diarrhea works on an individual according to the body’s constitution and diet follow-up. Every patient should observe precautions in diet, the time of usage of the medicine, and home remedies to obtain speedy results. Accordingly, the improvement in Agni, electrolytes, administration of antibiotics, and diet management are some Ayurvedic approaches that offer beneficial effects in managing Diarrhea.

This article is written/approved by:

Dr. Shivani Nautiyal (FREE Consultation till Nov 31st)

Dr. Shivani Nautiyal is a renowned Ayurvedic physician, Panchakarma therapies specialist, and detox expert who has made significant contributions to the field of natural holistic healing and wellness. With her profound knowledge, expertise, and compassionate approach, she has transformed the lives of countless individuals seeking holistic health solutions. She is a Panchakarma expert, which are ancient detoxification and rejuvenation techniques. She believes in the power of Ayurveda to restore balance and harmony to the body, mind, and spirit.

Is Itchy and Dry Skin Treatment in Ayurveda Effective?

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Ayurvedic treatment for dry skin: Dry and itchy skin is a common concern during the summer season. Many external variables contribute to dry skin, and the weather is one of the major factors. Since the warm summer air drastically affects your normally smooth skin, it is also important to evaluate your skincare regimen, to ensure you are treating your skin properly. If not taken care of, dry and itchy skin can become a severe problem.

Foremost, dry skin can leave your skin feeling tight, rough, and itchy. Also, feeling uncomfortable and not aesthetically pleasing, dry skin can crack when it becomes too severe. There is a possibility of different skin diseases as well, like Eczema, Psoriasis, and conditions like acne that can cause irritating symptoms.

Many people prefer cosmetic creams and other products for treating such issues. Creams that contain steroids can further cause side effects. This is why you should consider products that are gentle on the skin. In Ayurveda, you can get Dry skin treatment at home to keep your skin healthy.

Symptoms Of Itchy Skin

Itching may occur in a specific location of the body, such as legs, arms, scalp, or in the whole body. It may happen without any specific changes on your skin. Otherwise, itching may be accompanied by a few noticeable changes such as:

Scaly or leathery patches
Cracked, and dry skin
Blisters, spots, or bumps
Scratch marks
Redness
Swelling

In a few cases, the itchy sensation could last for an extended time period with varying intensities. After you scratch or rub the affected space, it tends to urge restlessness. Such behaviour can trigger a loop of itching, redness, and restlessness. It becomes troublesome to interrupt this response.

Dry And Itchy Skin Causes

Skin is the first line of defense for the body. This is why it is more susceptible to diseases, infections, and other problems. Usually, dry skin happens because of factors in the environment, like the hot weather. Here are some causes of dry and itchy skin:

Harsh detergents or soaps: Soaps, shampoos, and detergents are created to urge obviate oil on your skin, meaning they will additionally dry it out by baring out all the wetness.

Heat: Any heat supply, from area heaters and heating plants to fireplaces and wood stoves, will lower the moisture in the space and turn your skin dry.

Hot showers or baths: Taking long, hot showers or soaking in a hot bath could cause dry skin.

Swimming in pools: Chlorine, a chemical that keeps some pools clean, can dry out your skin.

Weather: During the winter, humidity and temperature usually drop. This can make your skin drier.

Your age: If you’re 40 or older, your chances of having dry skin are higher. Over 50% of older adults have dry skin.

Where you live: People living in cold or dry climates without much humidity also suffer from dry skin.

Your job: If your skin gets wet often during your job, it’s more likely to dry out. Swimming instructors and hairstylists often face this issue as their skin is regularly in water.

Your genes: Some people get health conditions that cause dry skin from their parents like thyroid, eczema, diabetes, and kidney disease, and other hormone disorders.

Ayurveda And Skin

According to Ayurveda, Pitta is responsible for the color, texture, and temperature of your skin, along with its luster and glow. It helps to govern the sweating function, absorb everything that we apply externally to the skin, and digests anything that contacts the skin (like chemicals, dust, irritants, and allergens). It’s also important to highlight the fact that excess heat and redness are almost always a sign of aggravated Pitta.

Skin is one of the primary places where Pitta resides in the body. This not only makes it vulnerable to Pitta imbalance but also an active outlet for it. So, you may need to go a long way to maintain Pitta’s balance in your body. Dry skin treatment in Ayurveda consists of herbal formulations and dry skin natural remedy that helps to maintain your skin health as well.

Also Read: Ayurvedic Ways to Improve Digestive Health

How To Prevent Itchy Skin

It is important to moisturize your skin on a daily basis and also maintain a healthy diet to nourish your skin from the inside. Most skin experts recommend the following tips and suggestions to prevent itchy and dry skin:

1. Always take a bath with lukewarm or cold water. The reason behind this is that hot water aggravates your itching. Along with that, you should try to limit your bathing time to 10 minutes.

2. Avoid using any “fragrance-based” detergents, soaps, lotions, and creams to reduce skin irritation. Be careful while choosing products labeled as ‘unscented’ as most of them contain harsh chemicals which may further irritate your skin condition.

3. Always use a herbal, natural, and light moisturizer on your skin. Try to use a gentle moisturizer that suits your skin. Also, avoid going out in direct sunlight.

4. You are recommended to wear stretchable, light, and comfortable clothes made with cotton and other natural fabrics. You should avoid rough textiles and fabrics because they may irritate your aggravated skin, and lead to severe itching.

5. Avoid extreme temperature fluctuations and weather conditions. Try and maintain a cool, dry, and pleasant environment in your home. You should use a humidifier in your home during winter if you are susceptible to eczema and dry skin.

6. Stress can worsen your itching, so you need to manage your stress levels. You will get help by meditating, exercising, and cultivating a hobby besides practicing a healthy lifestyle routine.

Ayurvedic And Home Treatments

Ayurveda has some home remedies and medicines that can effectively help you to nourish your dry and itchy skin. This will not only help you to treat skin-related issues but will also keep your skin healthy and glowing. Here are ways for the dry skin treatment in Ayurveda:

1. Home Remedies For Dry Skin

There are various home remedies that will help you to relieve itching and the burning sensation of the skin. These home remedies help to relieve itching and moisturize your dry skin.

A. Cold Applications

One of the effective methods to reduce itching is applying ice on the affected area. You can either choose a damp cloth, cool showers, or cold compress to bring instant relief. It will slow down the advancement of a skin rash, prevent swelling, and ease itching sensation.

When you apply cold water or ice to your skin rash, it also helps in reducing the inflammation and swelling immediately. You can go for a cold water shower to relieve body itching.

B. Apple Cider Vinegar

The primary constituent of apple cider vinegar is Acetic acid, which has been used as an antiseptic and disinfectant. You can apply it to the affected region directly with a washcloth. Along with that, you can add 2-3 cups of vinegar to the bathwater and soak your body in it for about half an hour to relieve body itching.

C. Baking Soda Or Oatmeal Baths

Baking soda is popularly used in many medicated powders and ointments because it has antifungal properties. Studies have tried its effectiveness in treating and managing different kinds of flora diseases that sometimes cause itchiness.

D. Ayurvedic Lepa

Lepas are Ayurvedic medical dressing that is prepared from various herbs such as Vacha, Kushtha, Amalaki, and Barley. Lepas have a semisolid or paste-like consistency that is externally applied to the affected skin. As per the ancient Ayurvedic texts, the three classes of Lepas are Varanya Mukhalepa (beautifying), Doshaghna (minimizing Doshas), and Vishaghna (removal of poison).

A Lepa made from Triphala (Haritaki, Bibhitaki, and Amalaki), Haridra, Sarsapa Taila, Manjishtha, Tulsi, and Aaragvadha is recommended for minimizing itching caused by Dadru. Jeevantyadi Yamaka Lepa, Mahamarichyadi or Jatyadi oil, Tuvaraka, and Karanja are externally applied to help reduce symptoms of psoriasis-like itching.

2. Ayurvedic Treatment For Dry Skin

Along with home remedies you can also consider Ayurvedic medicines for healing dry and itchy skin.

A. Gandhak Rasayana

Gandhak Rasayana is made with iron, Shuddha Gandhaka (pure brimstone), Cinnamon barks and leaves, Amalaki, Ela, Honey, Trikatu, Maricha, Shunthi, Pippali, and Jaggery.

All these herbs help in purifying the bloodstream which enables it to effectively treat leprosy, boils, and various other severe skin diseases. The Ayurvedic formulation is also helpful in the treatment of Eczema and alleviating itching associated with the skin condition.

Dose – 1 tablet twice a day with normal water

B. Arogyavardhini Vati

Arogyavardhini Vati only helps in treating various skin disorders but also helps in improving the overall health of an individual. It is beneficial in treating and managing skin disorders such as Psoriasis, Eczema, and Ringworm. Along with that, it minimizes the excess doshas, thereby improving the efficacy of panchakarma therapies.

Dose – 2 tablets twice a day with plain water

C. Mahamanjisthadi Kwatha

Mahamanjisthadi Kwatha is a mixture of ten powerful herbs that are administered to treat diabetes, arthritis, and chilblains (Skin sores and bumps). Other than that, it is also considered in the treatment of various skin disorders such as Eczema and its related issues.

Dose – 2 tsp with a half cup of water twice a day

Infographic

Please find below the infographic on “Is Itchy and Dry Skin Treatment in Ayurveda Effective?”. Feel free to use this infographic but make sure to cite us atwww.healthybazar.com.

Conclusion

Ayurveda is the most popular well-being system, known for its facilities within the management of skin disorders and diseases. Ayurveda uses a holistic approach to assist with skin issues. The supplements used have ingredients that facilitate skin health, reduce inflammation and infections on the skin.

Ayurvedic treatment for dry skin will be helpful for people who suffer from allergic symptoms of the skin. There may be different causes of having skin issues, but it is very important to maintain doshas balance for healthy and beautiful skin. Ayurvedic medicines and home remedies for dry and itchy skin help treat the condition and help maintain the doshas balance. You can also consult with an expert Ayurvedic Consultant for detailed and customized treatment for your skin issues.