Delhi pollution: Ayurveda experts recommend ‘Jufa’ herb to tackle respiratory problem

Mumbai: With no let-up in the toxic smog which has engulfed parts of Delhi and adjoining areas, Ayurveda experts here have suggested that medicinal herb ‘Jufa’ found in high mountainous regions, can be effective in protecting against respiratory problems.

The high pollution level in the city has left many with a congested nose, sore throat, and cough.

“There are certain herbs and spices that will not only ensure good lung health but also keep respiratory ailments at bay. Consumption of Jufa with Tulsi, cloves, Peepli, Gojiya, cinnamon, Kateli, Baheda, dried fig, and Unab can offer relief from mucus and cough,” Dr. R P Prashar, head of Prashant Vihar-based Ayurveda Hospital said.

Herbal pharma giant AIMIL Pharmaceuticals has prepared ‘Jufex Forte’ syrup based on these herbs which can be consumed with lukewarm water for effective results.

Doctors say most of the people troubled by dry cough in Delhi are those who are out in the open for long hours, breathing in the toxic air. They are usually two-wheeler riders or those doing fieldwork as part of their job.

“If the cough lasts more than three days, one should immediately take medical help. It can be a sign of a serious medical condition,” they warned.

It has been found that herbs like Jufa, Tulsi, Bharangi, and others are useful in cleansing the respiratory tract, expelling cough from the body system. These herbs also help boost the body’s immunity, the doctors said.

Dr. Shantanu Kumar from the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) said on account of air pollution in Delhi, many people are contracting allergy symptoms which include cough, mucus, fever, and headache, which if not treated early can turn contagious.

“Consuming tea and milk containing turmeric, tulsi, ginger, cloves, and black pepper can help heal the sore throat, and remove toxic elements from the body system,” he said.

According to a few studies, some household plants like the snake plant, bamboo, Areca Palm, peace lily, and money plant, can take in toxins from the atmosphere and purify the air. The use of beeswax candles, salt lamps, or essential oils, including rosemary, thyme, oregano, tea tree, lemongrass, and cinnamon, can also help in purifying the air, they said.