Delhi Pollution: 5 Simple Drinks To Detoxify Your Lungs Naturally

Delhi pollution: Air quality in Delhi has dipped to emergency category. If this is not the time to take urgent action to protect yourself from smog, then what is? Overall air quality index dipped to 459 and a public health emergency has been declared in Delhi. With such hazardous levels of air pollution, you must make efforts to stay indoors as much as possible. Whenever outside, wear a pollution masks that fits your face well. It is quite likely that you will experience respiratory illnesses like cough, cold and congestion. It is going to be even more difficult for people suffering from asthma, bronchitis, COPD and breathing problems. Keep reading to know other ways to beat ill effects of Delhi pollution. 

Delhi pollution: 5 drinks that can detoxify your lungs during high levels of pollution

1. Ginger honey lemon tea

Ginger contains anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce cough and congestion. Honey can reduce the frequency of your cough and lemon contains Vitamin C which can boost your immunity. Grate ginger (a medium-sized piece), add a tsp (or more) of honey and a few drops of lemon juice in water and put it to a boil. Reduce the mixture to half and strain in a cup. Sip it warm to detoxify your lungs naturally.

Ginger, honey and lemon tea can have a soothing effect on your throat
Photo Credit: iStock

Also read: Prolonged Air Pollution Could Affect Your Mood And Work Productivity

2. Green tea

The benefits of green tea can be put to use this time of the year. Apart from offering weight loss benefits, green tea provides you with antioxidants and caffeine that can make you feel pumped up during times when you are feeling under the weather. Antioxidants in green tea can remove toxins from the body and also improve digestion.

3. Turmeric and ginger drink

Medicinal properties of turmeric can prove to be excellent for controlling cough, congestion and cold. You can make a turmeric ginger drink or even the traditional haldi doodh or turmeric latte as it is now popularly called. Curcumin in turmeric is the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-cancerous agent. Ginger can you heal from nausea and reduce congestion.

Also read: If You Want To Prevent Falling Sick Because Of Air Pollution, This Is What You Should Do According To Doctors

4. Masala chai

Yes, the traditional, age-old masala chai has stood the test of time for treating ailments like cough, cold, congestion and breathing problems. A variety of spices go in preparation of masala chai like ginger, cinnamon, clove, black pepper, cardamom and tulsi. All these are medicinal herbs and spices are anti-inflammatory in nature. They can clear your throat and reduce throat irritation. Congestion and cough can also be effectively reduced by consuming masala chai. Mix all ingredients and ground them to form a coarse paste. Add them to boiling water. Then add black tea leaves and some sugar to taste. Sip on warm masala chai regularly to beat the ill effects of air pollution.

A soothing cup of masala chai can prevent respiratory issues caused by air pollution
Photo Credit: iStock

5. Licorice (mulethi) root tea

Licorice root tea can be considered to be a staple for reducing cough and congestion. Studies show that licorice tea has antiviral and antimicrobial properties. All you need to do is take a one-inch piece of licrorice root and beat it. Add it to boiling water and let it infuse for five to 1o minutes. Add honey or lemon juice to balance out the flavour. If you have a itchy throat, you can also gargle with warm licorice water with salt.

Take appropriate steps before air pollution takes a toll on your health and causes more serious problems.

Also read: Try This Magic Lung Tea To Overcome Rising Air Pollution! Health Expert Luke Coutinho Tells All About It

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.