Air pollution blues? 9 drinks to cleanse your lungs

It is stubble-burning time which means that we are back to the days when there is smog choking those living in Delhi-NCR. Last week, people woke to a sky that was laden with dust and poor visibility. We all know that Delhi, the capital of India, is one of the most polluted cities in the world. The city’s air quality index (AQI) often exceeds safe levels. But AQIs touching nearly 500-plus is leading to severe lung-related issues.

This is because when people breathe in polluted air, they inhale harmful pollutants such as particulate matter (PM), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and sulfur dioxide (SO2). These pollutants can irritate the lungs and cause inflammation. Over time, this can lead to a number of serious health problems, including: Asthma, Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung cancer, heart disease, and stroke. Children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to the health effects of air pollution.

Impact of air pollution on lungs

Air pollution can damage the lungs in a number of ways. For example, PM can damage the delicate air sacs in the lungs, making it difficult to breathe and exchange oxygen. NO2 can irritate the airways and cause inflammation, which can lead to asthma and COPD. SO2 can also irritate the airways and cause inflammation, and it can also damage the lining of the lungs.

As more and more people are reporting issues like cough, cold, feelings of breathlessness, and other respiratory issues, here are a few natural remedies that can help cleanse your lungs.

Green tea: Green tea is a good source of antioxidants, which can help to protect the lungs from damage. To make green tea, simply steep green tea leaves in hot water for a few minutes. You can add honey or lemon to taste.

Ginger tea: Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory agent that can help to reduce inflammation in the lungs. To make ginger tea, crush fresh ginger roots put them in hot water, and it for five to seven minutes. You can add honey or lemon to taste.

Turmeric tea: Turmeric is a spice that contains curcumin, a compound with powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. To make turmeric tea, combine turmeric powder, hot water, and honey or lemon to taste. You can also add turmeric to milk and drink it.

Eucalyptus tea: Eucalyptus has a long history of use as a respiratory decongestant. To make eucalyptus tea, steep fresh eucalyptus leaves in hot water for six to seven minutes. You can add honey or lemon to taste.

Peppermint tea: Peppermint contains menthol, a compound that can help to clear mucus from the lungs. To make peppermint (mint leaves) tea, steep fresh peppermint leaves in hot water for a few minutes. You can add honey or lemon to taste.

Lemon water: Lemon water is a good source of vitamin C, which is an antioxidant that can help to protect the lungs from damage. To make lemon water, simply add lemon juice to a glass of lukewarm water. You can also add honey or ginger to taste.

Apple cider vinegar drink: Apple cider vinegar is a natural antimicrobial agent that can help to fight off infection in the lungs. It is advisable to use apple cider vinegar with Mom. Make a drink by combining two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar, water, and honey or lemon to taste.

Green smoothie: Green smoothies are a great way to get your daily dose of fruits and vegetables, as well as other nutrients that can help support lung health, such as antioxidants and vitamins. To make a green smoothie, simply combine spinach, kale, or other leafy greens with fruits, yogurt, and milk in a blender. You can also add other ingredients, such as chia seeds, flaxseeds, or protein powder.

Kadha: Nothing beats the cough and cold away that the good old kadha that your grandmother always made during the onset of winters. Take an inch of cinnamon, three to four cardamoms, five to six whole peppercorns, four to five cloves, an inch of ginger, and five to six fresh tulsi leaves. Crush these in a mortar and pestle. Take two cups of water and bring it to a boil. Add the crushed ingredients and boil till the water is half. Add honey and lemon to taste and drink while it is warm.

It is important to note that these drinks are not a substitute for medical treatment. If you have any concerns about your lung health, please see a doctor immediately.