As a thick grey haze continues to engulf Delhi, turning the capital into the country's most polluted city, residents are grappling with a sharp rise in respiratory illnesses. On Saturday, Delhi recorded an average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 335 at 9 am, placing it firmly in the 'red zone' according to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data. This hazardous air has led to increasing cases of fever, scratchy throat, and blocked nose among citizens.
While many turn to anti-allergic medicines and air purifiers for rescue, a growing number of people are seeking natural alternatives to boost their immunity. Focusing on this very need, celebrity nutritionist Shweta Shah recently took to Instagram to share Ayurvedic wisdom for respiratory relief through simple steam blends that can be prepared at home.
Natural Solutions for Pollution-Induced Ailments
In her Instagram carousel post, Shah posed a question many Delhiites are asking: "Struggling with a cold, cough, blocked nose, or scratchy throat?" Her solution doesn't involve rushing to pills but rather embracing three simple yet powerful Ayurvedic steam blends designed to clear sinuses, soothe the throat, and calm the mind naturally.
Tulsi-Ajwain Classic Steam for Congestion Relief
This traditional blend is particularly effective for cold, cough, and blocked nose. To prepare it, you need 7-8 tulsi leaves, 1 teaspoon ajwain, a pinch of rock salt, and 2-3 drops of eucalyptus oil. After boiling these ingredients in water, cover your head with a towel and inhale the medicated steam deeply for 5-8 minutes.
According to Ayurvedic principles, Tulsi (Holy Basil) is revered as the "Queen of Herbs" for respiratory wellness. It possesses Kaphaghna (kapha-balancing) and Ushna (warming) properties that help clear mucus and open airways. The essential oils in tulsi leaves—eugenol, camphene, and cineole—provide antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and expectorant effects that fight respiratory infections and soothe throat irritation.
Ajwain Quick Relief Steam for Viral Onset
When you feel the first signs of a viral infection, this potent vapor mixture can provide immediate relief. The recipe requires just 1 teaspoon ajwain, 1 bay leaf, and a pinch of black pepper. Boil these together and inhale the steam to open blocked respiratory pathways within minutes.
Ayurveda recognizes ajwain (carom seeds) as a powerful spice for respiratory health due to its Ushna (warming) and Kapha-Vata balancing properties. The active compound thymol in ajwain delivers strong antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and bronchodilatory benefits, making it highly effective against cough, cold, asthma, and bronchitis symptoms.
Clove-Ginger Vapor Mix for Throat Discomfort
Specifically designed for scratchy throat, dry cough, and fatigue, this blend combines 3-4 cloves, 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, and a few tulsi or mint leaves. Steam with this mixture for just 5 minutes to experience its comforting effects.
In Ayurvedic tradition, ginger (adrak) is considered one of the most potent herbs for respiratory balance. Its Ushna (warming), Kaphavatahara (Kapha- and Vata-balancing), and Deepana (digestive fire-enhancing) properties effectively clear mucus and toxins from the respiratory tract. The bioactive compound gingerol in ginger provides anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and expectorant benefits that ease cough and breathing discomfort. Meanwhile, clove contributes through its active compound eugenol, which offers antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and pain-relieving properties to fight respiratory infections and soothe throat irritation.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any new health routine.
