What
is Cold ?
The
common cold is still our most common disease. It is often the first
stage of other diseases, indicating a breakdown in our bodily defenses,
which may allow further conditions to arise. True to its name it continues
to be one of the most common afflictions. According to Ayurveda it
indicates the first stage in the breakdown of our bodily defenses.
There are many different rhino-viruses that are behind it.
What
are the symptoms ?
Colds
and flues are usually Kapha (phlegm) diseases and the symptoms are
of that humor. There is accumulation of mucus, runny nose, sore throat,
congestion, cough, body ache, headache and chills with mild fever.
What
are the causes ?
Colds
and flues are generally Kapha (phlegm) disease. Exposure to cold air,
seasonal changes are Kapha increasing factors. Exposure to hot and
cold conditions alternatively in a sort period is also responsible,
as for example having cold water or drink immediately after coming
in from the sun.
What
are the general treatment ?
An
anti-Kapha and anti-Ama (detoxifying) diet is prescribed. Diet should
be light, warm and simple: for example, whole grains and steamed vegetables
in moderate quantities. Avoid dairy products, especially cheese, yogurt
and milk. Heavy, oily and damp food should not be taken: meat, nuts,
breads, pastries, candies and sweet fruit juices. Fasting is often
helpful if the individual is not too weak.
Lemon
and ginger juice can be taken with warm water and honey. Fresh ginger
or other spice teas, cinnamon, basil and cloves, are good.
Herbal
treatment uses diaphoretic, expectorant and anti-cough herbs. The
peripheral circulation needs to be restored and the cold dispelled.
After drinking warm spice tea, the patient should go to bed under
a warm blanket and be brought to a mild sweat. Other sweating methods
such as dry sauna or steam box can be used. The patient should only
be mildly sweated; profuse, should be avoided.
Topical
Ayurvedic herbs include ginger, cinnamon, long pepper,
