Exposure to smog can be severely harmful for our health in several ways. It can cause/aggravate allergies, asthma, COPD and bronchitis. Apart from the respiratory health, smog is harmful for the cardiovascular health as well. It can lead to heart diseases and cause premature birth. Also, you will be shocked to know studies have linked air pollution even with mental illnesses like depression.
Though the best way to combat this nasty smog is to avoid or spend less time outdoors, there are also some easy home remedies that can beat the negative effect of the toxic air we breathe.
Dr Priyanka Rohatgi, Senior nutritionist from Apollo Hospital says smog affects our airways and thus breathing. For the better functioning of our lungs we should focus on Vitamin E, Omega 3, phytoestrogen and antioxidant rich foods. A simple home remedy can be a concoction of these nutrients in the form of broccoli tomato broth with seasoning of olive oil on it.
Dr Priyanka shares three effective home remedies that are easy to make and useful in combating air pollution.
Home remedy 1
Boil one glass of water and add 5-6 tulsi leaves, grated ginger (one inch) and a small piece of crushed gur (jaggery) to it. Let the mixture boil for 5 minutes and consume it warm. This concoction will help boost immunity.
Home remedy 2
A glass of water boiled with tulsi leaves, salt, lemon and honey in it can help clear congestion and thus allow you to breathe better.
Home remedy 3
Haldi milk is beneficial for kids and adults alike. To prepare haldi milk, take a glass of milk and add few drops of ghee, a small piece of ginger, black cardamom, tulsi leaves, 1 clove and a pinch of haldi to it. Let it boil for 4-5 minutes and then add honey after turning off the flame. Consume it warm.
