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October 14, 2019
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Health Top Stories

Reality behind some common home remedies

We all are well familiar with a steaming hot bowl of chicken soup in the days of persistent coughing and sneezing i.e. cold. We all know of such homegrown remedies that adrak wali chai helps cure a headache. Here is the reality behind these remedies,

Chicken soup helps cure flu and common cold

Reality: There is no known cure for common cold, as the virus in the body needs to live its course. Antibiotics are not effective for a cold as it’s a viral disease. This is where the age-old chicken soup comes into the picture. The hot liquid that one ingests helps to open up the throat and nose. It also soothes an irritated throat. The warm soup also helps to re-hydrate the body, helping it recover faster.

Caution: The relief that is provided by the soup is temporary. If the symptoms persist, that means there is a larger problem.

Turmeric milk helps heal aches and pains in the body and, in general, boosts immunity

Reality: Turmeric boiled in milk is an excellent combination. Milk is a good source of protein, which help to heal wounds. Turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory properties that help to soothe the inflamed muscles.

Caution: Turmeric milk is effective, but only for non-serious aches and pains. This cannot be a replacement for treatment required to tackle a larger problem that needs immediate medical attention.

Oil massage helps strength children’s bones and enhance their immunity

Reality: Mustard oil is known to be inherently warm. It opens up the sweat glands and makes the skin supple and soft. The massage helps better one’s blood circulation. It also helps the child to relax and makes it easier for him/her to fall asleep..

Caution: Extra care should be taken with newborn and the massages should start when the child is at least one year old.

Honey and ginger help cure cough

Reality: Ginger, when boiled in water and then laced with honey, is a known cure for cough and sore throat. Ginger is a known cough suppressant. It is also an antioxidant that provides relief from the ailment. This, along with honey, helps alleviate the inflammation of the throat.

Caution: Diabetics need to be careful about the amount of honey they take, as it might affect their sugar levels more than it would affect non-diabetics.