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Every year after Diwali, the atmosphere gets thicker, the clouds become grey, and it feels harder to breathe. This year, air quality index numbers have also risen, causing many individuals to wake up with coughing, stuffiness, headaches, sore throats, and stinging eyes. During these times of seasonal issues, many people are looking for home treatments to help. Nutritionist Lovneet Batra has posted a straightforward Ayurvedic drink on Instagram that she claims might ease the respiratory system and protect the lungs from the effects of pollution. Although it should not replace masks, air filters, or medical advice, this quick morning routine could be a useful addition during high pollution days.

What You Need:

Mulethi (Licorice Root): 3-inch segment
Ajwain (Carom Seeds): 1 teaspoon
Fresh Ginger: 1/2-inch piece
Jaggery: 1/2 teaspoon (optional)
Water.

How To Make Mulethi-Ajwain Water?

Boil mulethi, ajwain, and ginger in 1.5 cups of water.
Allow it to cook until the liquid volume decreases by half.
Strain the mixture, mix in jaggery, and drink it warm - ideally on an empty stomach in the morning.

Why Mulethi-Ajwain Water Assists in Combating Pollution:

Mulethi: Lovneet states that mulethi helps to calm the respiratory system and relieve ongoing irritation caused by dirty air. It is recognized for its anti-inflammatory properties, which may help lessen swelling in the breathing passages, making it easier to breathe. She also mentions that mulethi provides a protective layer, helping to guard the lungs against continuous damage from pollution.

Ginger: Lovneet clarifies that ginger contains a substance known as gingerol, which can help to reduce inflammation in the lungs and throat. By lowering irritation in the breathing passages, it may encourage clearer and easier breathing, especially during times of elevated pollution. She adds that its warming effect also enhances blood flow, aiding the body in naturally removing toxins.

Ajwain: Ajwain is recognized for its strong antimicrobial and antioxidant effects, which help the body combat harmful germs that we breathe in polluted areas. Additionally, it improves digestion, preventing the accumulation of toxins that could put more stress on the system. Its active ingredients may help boost the body's defenses against pollutants and harmful metals.

Jaggery: Jaggery has been traditionally used in Indian homes to cleanse the lungs and eliminate mucus from the respiratory passages. It is commonly thought to help remove fine dust and pollutant particles that enter the body through the air we breathe. When paired with warm herbs and spices, it may assist with gentle detoxification from within.

What Pollution Does to Your Lungs?

Pollutants such as PM2.5 and PM10 can penetrate deep into the lungs, leading to inflammation, blockage, dryness, wheezing, and ongoing breathing difficulties. They also damage the protective lining, increasing the risk of infections in the lungs. This is the reason why calming, anti-inflammatory components can provide beneficial relief.

Who Can Benefit From This Drink?

This practice may be useful for:
Individuals who travel every day or spend a lot of time outside.
People dealing with seasonal coughs, sore throats, or slight congestion.
Anyone experiencing dryness or discomfort from dirty air.

How Often Should You Drink It?

The best time is once a day in the morning. Since mulethi can affect blood pressure if taken too much, avoid drinking it every day for a long time. Limit it to 10-14 days when pollution is high.

Important Caution:

Talk to a healthcare provider before you try this if you are:

Expecting a baby or nursing
Having high blood pressure
Experiencing kidney problems or retaining water
Taking certain medications (check with your doctor).

Other Lung-Friendly Habits To Add:

In addition to this remedy, these practices can provide further support:

Wear an N95 mask when going outside
Try steam inhalation using ajwain or eucalyptus
Do nasya (put 2-3 drops of warm ghee or sesame oil in your nostrils, as recommended by Ayurveda)
Incorporate tulsi, turmeric, honey, and warm water into your meals
Use an air purifier indoors or keep windows closed during busy air times.

While we may not have power over the air outside, we can boost our body's internal defenses. By using masks, air purifiers, and seeking medical advice when necessary, along with simple kitchen solutions, like this Ayurvedic drink for lung relief, we can find comfort and support during times of pollution.