It is really difficult to breathe in the northern part of India under the impact of immense air pollutants in our surroundings mainly in the months of October and November, as a result our lungs can never be healthy. There are plenty of reasons for that starting from the burning of crop residue, densely populated roads with automobiles, bad fumes with pungent smells releasing from the factories, and much more. The air we are breathing is harmful not only for our lungs health but also for the whole body.
It will be better if we stay home and start avoiding going out for unnecessary reasons rather than putting our lives in danger. Somehow, if it is urgent to go out then it is better to wear a mask like N90.
But there are other ways you can strengthen yourself from the harmful effects of air pollution by consuming nutrient-rich ayurvedic foods which help in fighting this threat. So, here is a list of 5 best ayurvedic foods items to keep your lungs healthy and increase your immunity.
- Triphala
Pollution causes an imbalance in tridosha (Tridoshas are the three forces of the body, which bring health when in balance, and produces diseases when out of balance. The three doshas are called Vata, Pitta, and Kapha), according to Ayurvedic literature. Triphala helps in boosting the immune system which keeps us safe and protected from the effects of air pollutants helping in keeping your lungs healthy.
How to Use: It is recommended that 1 tablespoon of Triphala powder should be taken with 1 teaspoon of honey at night.
- Tulsi (Basil)
Tulsi is widely used in India for treating lung infections and damage as it is easily available in houses, temples, gardens, etc. Tulsi absorbs air pollutants and in return filters the air for us. It is also a great source of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, iron, manganese, Vitamin K, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids. One should drink 10 – 15 ml of basil juice as it clears pollutants from the respiratory tract.
How to Use: It depends upon the recipe you choose in which you would like to include tulsi in it. Mostly it is infused with ginger, jaggery (gur), and honey.
- Pippali
It is also known by the name of Pipli, Long Pepper, Gonamika, etc. Pippali is good if you have cough related problems, like bronchitis and it also controls the symptoms of asthma and gives relief in case of breathlessness. Pippali is very useful for asthmatic patients because it has a decongestant and bronchodilator.
How to Use: ¼ teaspoon of ginger, ¼ teaspoon of turmeric, and 1/8 teaspoon of Pippali powder mixed in 1 tablespoon of honey along with lukewarm water.
- Ginger
Ginger is being used since the medieval period as it holds the ability to get relief from cough and cold and helps in making the roots of our lungs healthier which makes breathing much easier. It also helps in improving blood circulation to the lungs.
How to Use: A better way to consume ginger is in the form of tea.
- Carom Seeds (Ajwain)
It helps in improving airflow which allows you to keep your lungs healthy without making any extra efforts on your lungs. It is rich in fiber, and other essential vitamins and minerals. Other benefits of Carom Seeds are that it improves digestion and prevents gas formation.
How to Use: It can be mixed in chapattis and paranthas. Soak 1 teaspoon in a glass of water, keep it overnight and drink it in the morning.
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