When we suffer from this, we tend to rush to the medicine cabinet and take a dose of the common antibiotic, thinking that it will heal you. While the medicine may lessen symptoms, it does not make the cold go away entirely. Plus, it is vital that you complete the entire course of the medicine or else, there is a huge risk of the infection coming back. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR or AR), when the microbes start resisting the treatment is also another reason enough to reconsider the medication.
Switch to the alternative
Hence, natural is the way to go! Not only is it a cost-effective solution and one that comes without possible side-effects, but natural cures are loaded with essential nutrients and vitamins which help your body.
Recently, popular nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar shared a quick and useful remedy for an irritated throat, cold and congestion on her Instagram page. All it takes is a bout of mishri, or khadi shakkar which is known as candy sugar. Surprised? Yes, this easy and yummy delight can actually help you get rid of a cold in a jiffy!
Sharing the post, Rujuta said, “Gale mein kharash, naak band aur sab kuch ulta pulta? Khadi shakker lijiye.
Ayurved has celebrated the khadi shakkar or misri as it is called for centuries and celebrated its therapeutic value for easing the cough, preventing the cold and strengthening a weak immune system.
It is also popular with the Indian classical singers for keeping their vocal chords lucid, fluid and sweet.
Also known for keeping acidity, nausea and gas down.
As for all those of you who worry about “sugar” know that what you need to avoid are the ultra-processed packaged foods like biscuits, colas and chocolates. The misri is medicinal and as a part of a healthy, wholesome diet and a disciplined lifestyle, works wonders. Bite into it yet?”
Why is candy sugar good for you?
The myth we all are guilty of believing is that sugar, in all forms is bad for you. What you need to know is that if the quantity is controlled, natural sugar, like candy sugar can help you. This claim also has roots in Ayurveda, which supports the fact that mishri promotes better immunity and makes you stronger to fight infections.
According to Ayurveda, candy or rock sugar is largely unrefined and made out of sugarcane and palm sap, which has plenty of health benefits and nutrients in its own self. Hence, mishri is a better alternative to regular processed sugar.
Candy sugar can also maintain haemoglobin levels and solve problems like anaemia and dizziness, supporting good blood flow in the body. It can also pump up the energy levels in the body, keeping you charged up. Therefore, mishri is more than just a mouth freshener you have between meals!
The ideal way to have it
Mishri, or candy sugar can relieve symptoms of a cough and cold but for the best remedy, you should mix other easily found kitchen ingredients such as black pepper, ghee, which are powerful ingredients.
-Mix mishri powder with crushed black pepper and ghee. Drink this prepared concoction post-dinner to treat the problem of sore throat.
-You can also mix mishri powder with some warm water to treat a nagging cough. This also helps in releasing stuffed mucus from the body.
