The winter season is back, and we need to make sure that we take enough precautions. So let’s shed some light on shunthi herb benefits in winter: A Natural Remedy for Asthma in this blog. People easily fall ill during this winter season. Hence, it is important to keep yourself warm and protect yourself from the wrath of cold winters.
As the winter season approaches, many individuals with asthma experience an increase in symptoms, including wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. The colder temperatures, dry air, and indoor heating can all trigger asthma attacks, making it a challenging time for those living with this condition. While conventional treatments such as inhalers and medications can provide relief, there is a growing interest in natural remedies that can complement these treatments and offer additional benefits.
Shunthi, in Latin name Zingiber officinale Sonth, or Shunthi, is also called vishvabheshaj (universal medicine) due to its many uses. Ayurvedic “Shunthi” is a perennial plant growing up to 1.5 m, mainly in China, India and Nepal. The most used part is the aboveground rhizome.
Active Compounds and Therapeutic Properties
The potency of Shunthi lies in its bioactive compounds, including gingerol and shogaol. These constituents contribute to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties, forming the foundation of its therapeutic allure.
Shunthi is dried ginger, but its properties are a bit different than those of ginger. Shunthi is a natural painkiller used in Ayurveda to relieve all types of pain including abdominal colicky pain, joint pain, headaches, and menstrual pain as it balances vata dosha in the body. This pungent herb has been shown to possess a wide range of therapeutic properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antispasmodic effects. These properties make Shunthi a promising natural remedy for asthma, particularly during the winter months.
Anti-inflammatory Properties:
Asthma is characterized by chronic inflammation of the airways. Shunthi’s anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce inflammation in the airways, making it easier for individuals with asthma to breathe.
Antioxidant Properties:
Free radicals can contribute to asthma symptoms by damaging airways and promoting inflammation. Shunthi’s antioxidant properties help neutralize free radicals, protecting the airways from oxidative damage and reducing inflammation.
Antispasmodic Effects:
Spasms of the muscles in the airways are a hallmark of asthma attacks. Shunthi’s antispasmodic effects can help relax these muscles, easing breathing difficulties and reducing the frequency of asthma attacks.
Shunthi might be beneficial in managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. It is associated with the blockage of airflow from the lungs. This results in difficulty breathing. Shunthi has anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory properties. It reduces the inflammation and contraction of the airways. Shunthi is one of the main contents of Asthalex Capsule by best Ayurvedic product manufacturers in India.
Shunthi Herb benefits in winter
Here are some ways to incorporate Shunthi into your daily routine:
- In cold or asthmatic attacks, ginger tea—crushed ginger—is added to boiling water, and tea is prepared with this water. This tea reduces inflammation and relieves congestion and bodyache.
- For asthma, garlic cloves may be added to the above tea. Ginger may be mixed with mustard oil and applied externally to the chest to relieve congestion.
- Guladrakam is used for chronic respiratory conditions like bronchitis, asthma, and runny nose.
- Ginger Chews: Snack on ginger chews or candies to reap the benefits of ginger on the go.
- Ginger in Cooking: Incorporate ginger into your cooking as a spice or flavoring agent.
- Ginger Supplements: Consider taking ginger supplements for a concentrated dose of ginger’s beneficial compounds.
- Shunthi (ginger), jaggery, and ghee balls in childhood, especially in the winter season, as they give immunization against cold and cough. These laddus are also given during the post-pregnancy period to reduce vata.
- Shunthi is one of the main components in herbal medicines like Dama Buti Churna & Dama Buti Avaleh by leading Herbal and Ayurvedic Medicine Manufacturer in India.
- Shunthi as a part of Ritu Haritaki
- Hemant Ritu indicates the start of early winter. Shunthi (ginger) is combined with haritaki to cure infections, allergies, and other ailments.
Additional Tips for Managing Asthma in Winter
- Avoid Cold Air: Cover your mouth and nose when going outdoors to protect your airways from the cold air.
- Maintain Indoor Humidity: Use a humidifier to keep indoor air moist, which can help prevent dry air from irritating the airways.
- Get Regular Vacuums: Regularly vacuum your home to remove dust and allergens that can trigger asthma attacks.
- Wash Bedding Regularly: Wash bedding frequently to eliminate dust mites and other allergens.
- Manage stress: Stress can exacerbate asthma symptoms. Practice stress-management techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing.
- Consult a Healthcare Professional: Work closely with your doctor or an Ayurvedic practitioner to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs.You can also refer to our blog अस्थमा से कैसे बचे for the same.
Potential Interactions and Side Effects
While Shunthi is generally well-tolerated, it’s prudent to be aware of potential interactions with certain medications. Additionally, excessive consumption may lead to mild side effects, emphasizing the importance of moderation.
Remember, consistency is key to reaping the benefits of Shunthi for asthma management. By incorporating Shunthi into your daily routine and following these additional tips, you can help alleviate asthma symptoms and enjoy a healthier winter season.
