Winter—known in Ayurveda as Hemanta and Shishira—is a season of profound transformation within the body. As temperatures fall, the environment becomes dominated by the qualities of cold (śīta), dryness (rukṣa), and lightness (laghu). These qualities directly aggravate Vata Dosha, while the accumulation of cold heaviness also triggers Kapha Dosha imbalances.
In modern cities, this natural seasonal shift is intensified by rising pollution levels, fog, vehicular emissions, and dry indoor air from heaters. Together, these factors disturb the Prāṇavaha Srotas (respiratory channels), leading to increased cases of:
• Persistent cough
• Recurrent cold
• Throat dryness and irritation
• Chest congestion
• Low immunity
• Pollution-triggered respiratory discomfort Ayurveda emphasises that seasonal wellness requires aligning daily routines and herbal support with Ritu Charyā—the lifestyle and diet appropriate for the season.
🌬️ WHY COUGH & COLD RISE SHARPLY IN WINTER
1. Vata Prakopa – Aggravation of Vata Dosha
The cold, dry nature of winter strips the throat of moisture, causing dryness, irritation, and continuous coughing.
2. Kapha Increase – Accumulation of Congestion
Fog, dampness, and low temperatures thicken Kapha, leading to blocked sinuses, mucus formation, and heaviness in the chest.
3. Pollution + Fog = Srotorodha (Channel Obstruction)
Winter fog merges with pollutants, forming a dense, irritating layer in the air. Inhalation leads to obstruction in the respiratory pathways.
4. Reduction in Sunlight & Immunity
Short winter days reduce the production of natural vitamin D and weaken Agni (digestive fire), thereby lowering immunity.
5. Dry Indoor Heating
Heaters make the indoor environment extremely dry, removing moisture from the nasal and respiratory membranes, increasing the likelihood of irritation. Together, these factors weaken the body’s naturaldefences and increase susceptibility to respiratory disorders.
🌿 AYURVEDIC RESPIRATORY SUPPORT
To counteract winter imbalances, Ayurveda prescribes warm herbs (uṣṇa), lubricating (snigdha), expectorant (kaphaghna), and immunity-enhancing (rasāyana).
The following herbal formulations from RAPL are aligned with these classical Ayurvedic principles:
🌱 1. Tus Herab Cough Syrup
🔗 Product Link: https://www.raplgroup.in/herbal-products/tus-herab-cough-syrup
A balanced Ayurvedic formulation designed to support both dry cough (Vata-type) and productive cough (Kapha-type), Tus Herab integrates classical herbs known for respiratory comfort:
Key Herbal Ingredients & Their Ayurvedic Benefits
• Vasaka (Adhatoda vasica) – A well-known Shwasahara herb, supporting clear breathing
• Mulethi (Glycyrrhiza glabra) – Soothes throat dryness & irritation
• Tulsi (Holy Basil) – Warms the respiratory system and boosts immunity
• Sunthi (Dry Ginger) – Enhances digestion & reduces congestion
• Haridra (Turmeric) – Supports anti-inflammatory balance
Ideal For:
– Pollution-triggered cough
– Dry throat due to winter air
– Cold-induced productive cough
– Irritation from fog or a change in weather
🌱 2. HIRA MOTI KESARI CHYWANPLUS
🔗 Product Link: https://www.raplgroup.in/herbal-products/hira-moti-kesari-chyawanplus
A classical Chyawanprash-based formulation, Hira moti kesari chywanplus strengthens immunity (Vyādhikṣamatva) and supports the body’s natural resistance against winter infections.
Key Herbal Ingredients & Their Benefits
- Amalaki: Immunity, helps digestion, antioxidants, fights common cold and cough.
- Hira bhasma: Has antioxidants, strengthens heart muscle, and has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Pippali: Expectorant – for cough and cold. It improves metabolism and has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
- Twak : Has anti-oxidants. It has anti-inflammatory properties.
Ideal For:
– Individuals with frequent infections
– Low immunity during winter
– Protects from recurrent Cough, cold, and other allergic reactions.
AYURVEDIC DOCTOR’S WINTER WELLNESS PROTOCOL (RITU CHARYĀ)
1. Ushna Jala (Warm Water) Throughout the Day
Warm ginger-infused water supports digestion, melts Kapha, and keeps the throat comfortable.
2. Nasya (Nasal Oil Application)
Daily application of Anu Taila or warm sesame oil lubricates the nasal passages and protects against dryness.
3. Steam Inhalation with Tulsi or Ajwain
A classical remedy that clears respiratory channels, reduces congestion, and balances Kapha.
4. Daily Abhyanga (Warm Oil Massage)
Sesame stabilises Vata, improves circulation, and supports overall immunity.
(Broadened note: This ritual is strongly recommended for people with frequent cold exposure.)
5. Warm, Spiced, Nourishing Diet
Winter-friendly choices include:
• Ghee
• Turmeric
• Black pepper
• Cinnamon
• Moong dal soup
• Hot herbal teas
• Cooked seasonal vegetables
Warm, moist meals help reduce Vata and Kapha imbalances.
6. Protect the Throat After Sunset Wear warm clothing around the neck and chest to prevent sudden exposure to cold wind—a key trigger for winter cough.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (AYURVEDIC DOCTOR’S GUIDANCE)
Q1. Why do coughs and colds recur frequently in winter?
Because both Vata (dryness) and Kapha (mucus) increase simultaneously, creating a cycle of irritation and congestion. Without proper seasonal care, recurrence is common.
Q2. Which syrup helps with cough due to pollution and fog?
Tus Herab Cough Syrup is effective for irritation caused by dust, pollutants, and cold winds.
🔗 https://www.raplgroup.in/herbal-products/tus-herab-cough-syrup
Q3. Which herbal formulation is best for strengthening immunity in winter?
Hira moti kesari chyawanplus, enriched with Immunoboosters, helps enhance the body’s natural resistance.
Q4. Are these syrups safe for children?
They are herbal, but dosage must follow the label, and for very young children, physician advice is recommended.
Q6. Should I continue steam inhalation and warm water along with these syrups?
Absolutely. These classical practices enhance the therapeutic effect of herbs and keep the respiratory system strong.
