Exposure to cold air, water, and cold wind in winters make you sick very easily. This season can cause cold stress and affect our health in many different ways. Depending upon the climatic conditions around you face multiple health problems. Common cold and flu seem to be very common in winter seasons and nothing is worse than painful fingers and finger toes. Due to chills small blood vessels of your body get inflamed and cause swelling in different body parts especially in the hands and feet. Various problems of the respiratory system are very common in cold seasons.
The effects of cold weather on the human body directly depend upon the response of our body to the extreme cold weather and temperatures. Chills, shivering, hypothermia, frostbite, dry and itchy skin, heart troubles, and inflammations are the other side effects of cold weather. Runny and stuffy nose, sneezing, fever, fatigue, and extreme body aches are few other side effects of cold weather.
Major side effects of cold weather that everyone experience may include
Nasal symptoms –
- serious congestion
- runny nose
- stuffy nose
- loss of smell and taste
- sneezing
- watery discharge of nose
Head related symptoms –
- headache
- watery eyes
- sore throat
- cough
- swelling of lymph nodes
Other body parts related symptoms –
- shivering
- chills
- excessive fatigue
- tiredness
- hypothermia- low-grade fever
- weakness
- chest discomfort
- raised heartbeat
- difficulty in breathing
- dehydration
Basically, toes, fingers, ears, and nose are major body parts that are at greater risk of cold weather because these body part does not have muscles to produce heat. Eyes are affected by cold wind and chills, mainly cornea of eye freezes with cold weather. The most severe cold injury in cold weather is hypothermia and it can be fatal.
This cold season you have to be more careful because the whole world is suffering from the health hazardous effects of COVID- 19. Ayurveda is the only way to stay safe and healthy during this winter season. Ayurveda focuses on the strengthening of your immune system and buildability in your body to fight against the fluctuation caused by cold weather and its side effects. Ayurveda is the only way to build immunity and light up the digestive system in the winter season. Ayurveda believes that winters are the only season that helps to improve your immunity and strength of body parts.
Yamuna Pharmacy provides cold-resistant herbal supplements for enjoying healthy cold seasons with Ayurveda in form of Vigoprot powder, Exhain syrup, Gojiwaadi with, Painostat capsules, Dynogesic liniment, and Herbaqua powder. All these herbal remedies are prepared by using pure and natural herbs of Ayurveda. These herbal remedies not only help to strengthen our immune system but also help to cure naturally all the underlying symptoms that are side effects of cold weather. Regular use of all these remedies helps to improve metabolism and digestion in the body and reduce the toxic effects of free radicals and toxins that cause ill effects.
All the above described cold-resistant products are safe for every age group because we use natural herbs free from the bad effects of harmful preservatives, chemicals, colors, and binders. All our products are checked by expert Ayurveda doctors after productions. Before packing our products go through quality and quantity check under the supervision of Ayurveda experts.
- Vigoprot powder – Ashwagandha ghan, Gokhru ghan, Shatavari ghan, Amalaki ghan, Shankh pushpi ghan, Khatika, Ksheer shushka, Ksheer medorahit and Coco power are the various herbs used to prepare this herbal remedy for enjoying the healthy cold season with Ayurveda. Regular use of this herbal powder helps to boost our natural immunity and helps to raise the body’s ability to fight against viral and bacterial attacks that cause common colds and flu in cold weather.
How to make beverage-
Take 200ml of lukewarm or cold milk in a mug. Add the contents of Vigoprot powder to milk. Add sugar or honey according to taste. Mix it well and your beverage is ready to drink.
Dosage– one glass daily for 50-90 days is recommended as an adult dose.
- Exhain syrup– Vasaka, kantkari, madhuyashti, lisodhe, khatmi, tulsi, navsadar, tankan and satva pudina are various herbs used in the preparation of this herbal remedy for enjoying healthy cold weather with Ayurveda. Herbs used in this remedy help to reduce the internal inflammations of the respiratory system and other body parts and give satisfactory relief. This cold-resistant remedy is very effective to treat the common cold, flu, cough, asthma, bronchitis, and other chronic problems of the respiratory tract. Regular use of this remedy helps to cure chronic disorders of the respiratory system and keeps it strong and healthy.
Dosage– two tablespoons full thrice daily is recommended as an adult dose.
- Gojiwadi qwath – gaujaban, mulethi, saunf, munakka, anjir, unnaab, adoosa, joofa, sapistan, khoob kalan, hansraj, gul banafsa, alsi, khatmi, kantkari and kali maricha are the herbs used to prepare this herbal remedy for enjoying healthy cold weather with Ayurveda. Herbs used in this cold-resistant remedy help to stimulate our metabolism and maintain healthy upkeep of alveoli of lungs and bronchial tree. Regular use of this remedy help to maintain the internal fire of the body that fights against extreme cold temperatures. The anti-oxidant nature of herbs helps to fight against the chronic infections caused by microbes in the body.
Dosage- 10-15ml of quaath with warm water thrice daily for 50-90 days regularly.
- Painostat capsules– – kupilu, nirgundi ghan, ekaneveer ras, erandmool, Sameer pannag ras, shallaki, mahavat vidhvansan ras, ashwagandha and yograj guggul are the herbs used to prepare this cold resistant herbal supplement for enjoying healthy cold weather with Ayurveda. Regular use of this herbal remedy in winters help to heal the pain caused by frostbites. It helps to reduce the pain of fingers and toes caused by extreme cold weather and strengthens the nerves. Painostat helps to heal inflammation and reduce the excessive weakness and fatigue caused by winters.
Dosage- 1 to 2 capsules twice or thrice daily is recommended as an adult dose.
- Dynogesic liniment – karpoor, ajowain satva, podina satva, tail parna, saral, erand tail, gandh pura tel are the herbs used to prepare this cold-resistant herbal remedy for enjoying cold weathers with Ayurveda. Regular massage of this liniment over inflamed parts helps to reduce inflammation and pain on fingers tips caused by extreme weathers.
Mode of application-
Take little quantity and massage into painful areas to reduce swelling and pain. Avoid contact with eyes and delicate parts.
- Herbaqua powder- Shunthi, khus, nagarmotha, raktachandana, netrabala and parpat are the herbs used in the formulation of this herbal remedy for enjoying healthy cold weathers with Ayurveda. Regular use of this herbal powder helps to stimulate our immune system and maintain normal body temperature. It helps to strengthen our physical stamina and natural immunity. This herbal remedy is also very beneficial for a healthy digestive system and metabolism.
How to use– soak 2-3 teaspoons of Herbaqua in warm water. Mix it well and let the mixture cool down. Strain the mixture properly and drink the filtered contents once daily.
Enjoying a Healthy Cold Season with Ayurveda
Contents
The cold season (typically fall and winter) can be a time for rest, coziness, and enjoying hearty foods. However, Ayurveda views this period as a time when the Vata and Kapha doshas tend to become aggravated. The cold, dry, and windy weather can lead to imbalances, causing issues like dry skin, joint pain, respiratory problems, digestive disturbances, and more. To stay healthy during the cold season, it’s important to follow Ayurvedic principles that help maintain balance and boost immunity.
Here’s how you can embrace the cold season in a healthy way using Ayurveda:
1. Balance Your Doshas for the Cold Season
In the colder months, Vata and Kapha tend to increase, causing dryness, coldness, and heaviness. Ayurveda recommends focusing on foods, activities, and lifestyle habits that help balance these doshas.
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Vata: Known for being dry, light, and mobile, Vata can become aggravated by the cold, leading to issues like dry skin, anxiety, and joint pain.
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Kapha: Known for being cold, heavy, and damp, Kapha tends to increase during winter, leading to congestion, mucus production, and sluggish digestion.
2. Ayurvedic Lifestyle Tips for Cold Season
a. Daily Routine (Dinacharya)
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Warm Oil Massage (Abhyanga): Self-massage with warm, grounding oils (like sesame oil) helps keep the body moisturized, nourishes the skin, and calms Vata. It also improves circulation and promotes a feeling of warmth.
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How to Use: Warm some sesame oil (or almond oil for Vata) and massage it into your body before a shower. This is especially effective during the colder months to combat dryness and coldness.
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Morning Rituals: Start your day with a glass of warm water with a slice of lemon or ginger. This helps to stimulate digestion (Agni) and clear any mucus buildup from the night.
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Ginger tea: Drinking ginger tea first thing in the morning can help balance Kapha and warm up the body for the day ahead.
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b. Diet Recommendations for Cold Season
During the cold months, the body needs more nourishing, warming, and moisturizing foods to balance the increased coldness and dryness.
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Warming Foods: Emphasize spices and foods that have warming properties, such as ginger, garlic, turmeric, black pepper, cinnamon, and mustard. These spices help balance cold weather and support digestion and circulation.
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Soups and Stews: Warm, moist, and hearty soups with root vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, and squash are great for nurturing the body. You can also include lentils or chicken for protein.
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Healthy Fats: Incorporate more healthy fats like ghee, avocados, nuts, and seeds. These fats provide lubrication for the joints and skin and help keep you feeling grounded during the cold months.
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Cooked Foods: Ayurveda recommends cooked foods during the winter months as they are easier to digest. Avoid cold, raw, and heavy foods like salads, which can aggravate Vata and Kapha.
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Hydration: Even in cold weather, it’s essential to stay hydrated. Drink warm herbal teas such as chamomile, ginger, or cinnamon tea. You can also sip on warm water throughout the day to keep the body’s digestive fires (Agni) strong.
c. Immune-Boosting Foods and Herbs
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Turmeric: With its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, turmeric is excellent during the cold season. It can help with colds, respiratory issues, and joint pain. You can add it to your soups, teas, or warm milk.
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Golden Milk: A traditional Ayurvedic remedy made by mixing turmeric, ginger, black pepper, and ghee in warm milk. This soothing drink supports immunity, reduces inflammation, and warms the body.
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Honey: Honey is an excellent immune booster, especially when consumed in moderation. It is soothing for the throat, clears excess mucus, and promotes digestion.
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How to Use: Mix honey with ginger powder and a little lemon juice to make a soothing remedy for a dry throat.
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Amla (Indian Gooseberry): Amla is rich in Vitamin C, which boosts immunity and helps fight off colds and flu. You can consume it in the form of Amla powder, juice, or chutneys.
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Tulsi (Holy Basil): Tulsi is considered a sacred herb in Ayurveda and is a powerful immune booster. It has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, making it ideal for preventing cold and flu.
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How to Use: Make Tulsi tea by boiling fresh or dried leaves in water, or take Tulsi capsules if you prefer.
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3. Ayurvedic Herbs for Cold Season Wellness
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Triphala: A combination of three fruits—Amalaki, Haritaki, and Bibhitaki—Triphala helps detoxify the body, boost immunity, and balance digestion. It’s especially good to take before bedtime for better digestion and to clear toxins from the body.
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Ashwagandha: Known for its adaptogenic properties, Ashwagandha helps the body cope with stress and boosts energy levels. It also supports immunity during the colder months.
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How to Use: Take Ashwagandha powder or capsules daily, or mix 1/2 teaspoon of powder in warm milk.
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Ginger: Ginger is an excellent remedy for combating cold and congestion. It has warming properties that soothe the throat and boost circulation.
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How to Use: Drink ginger tea daily to warm the body and prevent colds.
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Pippali (Long Pepper): Pippali is often used in Ayurvedic formulas to enhance digestion and support respiratory health. It is particularly effective for Kapha-related issues such as mucus buildup and sluggish digestion.
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How to Use: Pippali is typically taken in capsule form or as part of Ayurvedic formulations like Trikatu.
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4. Exercise and Movement
Although it’s easy to feel more sedentary in the cold months, moderate exercise is essential for maintaining circulation, flexibility, and overall health. Ayurveda recommends regular, gentle movement to help balance Vata and Kapha.
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Yoga: Practice warming yoga sequences with deep stretches and strength-building poses to stimulate digestion and circulation. Sun Salutations (Surya Namaskar) are an excellent way to start your day with warmth and energy.
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Walking: A daily walk outside in the fresh air, even if it’s chilly, can stimulate digestion, improve circulation, and boost mood. If it’s too cold outside, gentle walking indoors or on a treadmill is also beneficial.
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Breathing Exercises: Pranayama techniques like Ujjayi (victorious breath) and Anulom Vilom (alternate nostril breathing) help improve lung capacity and oxygenate the body.
5. Rest and Sleep
The cold season often signals the body to slow down, and rest becomes crucial for overall health. In Ayurveda, rest is vital for rejuvenating the body and mind.
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Sleep: The cold season is a good time to allow yourself to sleep a little longer. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night to support your body’s healing processes. Create a calming bedtime routine with warm herbal teas and a calming environment.
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Avoid Overworking: Avoid pushing your limits during the cold months, as excessive stress or overexertion can weaken immunity and increase Vata.
6. Stay Warm and Cozy
Ayurveda emphasizes staying warm in the cold season. This can include:
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Wearing layers: Stay warm by wearing wool or cotton layers that allow the skin to breathe.
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Warm baths: Taking warm baths with added Epsom salts or essential oils like lavender or eucalyptus can help relax sore muscles and rejuvenate the body.
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Heating Pads: Use heating pads or hot water bottles on joints that feel cold or stiff to keep the body warm.
Conclusion
Ayurveda encourages you to embrace the cold season with a balanced approach, focusing on warmth, nourishment, and detoxification. By integrating the right foods, herbs, and lifestyle habits into your routine, you can stay healthy, energized, and comfortable throughout the colder months. Whether it’s through warming foods, immune-boosting herbs, or relaxing practices, Ayurveda provides tools to help you thrive during this season.