It’ll take away the phlegm,” shared Sadhguru.
“As you pick up speed with Pranayama, you will see it will just burn up all the phlegm,” shared Sadhguru.
By eliminating dairy, individuals may experience a decrease in mucus production and alleviation of related symptoms,” said Dr Soni.
“Techniques like Kapalabhati and Bhastrika help expel excess mucous through forceful exhalations and deep inhalations, supporting overall respiratory health,” said Dr Soni.
Consult a healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen for further evaluation and treatment, said Dr Soni.
A change in season can lead to cold, cough, fever, and phlegm. But you do not really need to rush to a doctor unless it is severe. As such, if not chronic, they can be eased with home remedies, suggested Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev as he shared “4 ways to get rid of phlegm and transform your respiratory health”.
In an Instagram video, he first advised against consuming dairy products. Further, he suggested breaking 10-12 whole black peppercorns. “Don’t powder them. Just soak with honey and leave them overnight for about 8-12 hours. In the morning, chew on the pepper. It’ll take away the phlegm,” shared Sadhguru.
He also mentioned that regular practice of Pranayama like Kapal Bhati makes phlegm go away naturally. “As you pick up speed with Pranayama, you will see it will just burn up all the phlegm,” shared Sadhguru.
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Another tip is to use turmeric which, he said, takes away the phlegm in the tract. “If you have asthma, sinusitis, or any mucus-related diseases, you can lower the phlegm by consuming turmeric, especially with pepper. Many different combinations can be used with turmeric as the base, such as turmeric and neem, and turmeric and karpooravalli (Indian borage),” read the caption.
How does turmeric help? (Source: Freepik) How does turmeric help? (Source: Freepik)
What is phlegm?
Phlegm is a thick substance produced by the respiratory tract‘s mucous membranes, consisting of mucin, water, cells, and debris. “It helps trap and eliminate foreign particles and pathogens. Increased production occurs in response to infections, allergies, or irritants, causing symptoms like coughing and congestion,” said Dr Renu Soni, MD (respiratory medicine), consultant pulmonologist, NIIMS Medical College, Greater Noida.
Do these techniques work?
The mechanism behind avoiding dairy to reduce phlegm involves the potential for dairy products to stimulate mucus production or thicken existing mucus in some individuals. “This response can exacerbate symptoms of congestion and throat discomfort. By eliminating dairy, individuals may experience a decrease in mucus production and alleviation of related symptoms,” said Dr Soni.
Peppercorns, particularly black peppercorns, play a role in reducing phlegm due to their “expectorant properties”. “They contain compounds like piperine that can help thin mucus and facilitate its expulsion from the respiratory tract,” said Dr Soni.
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Pranayama, a practice of controlled breathing in yoga, “can aid in clearing phlegm by improving lung capacity, enhancing respiratory muscle strength, and promoting better oxygenation”, shared Dr Soni. “Techniques like Kapalabhati and Bhastrika help expel excess mucous through forceful exhalations and deep inhalations, supporting overall respiratory health,” said Dr Soni.
Dr Soni also shared that with its active compound curcumin, “turmeric possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help reduce mucus production and ease coughing”.
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sadhguru (@sadhguru)
Dr Soni also shared the following measures:
Stay hydrated: Drink ample fluids such as water, herbal teas, or warm broths to thin the mucous, making it easier to expel.
Steam inhalation: Inhaling steam from hot water or during a shower can loosen mucous and ease congestion.
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Saltwater gargle: Gargling with warm salt water can soothe a sore throat and help loosen phlegm.
Humidifier use: Using a humidifier adds moisture to the air, keeping nasal passages moist and reducing mucous production.
Avoid irritants: Steer clear of cigarette smoke, strong odours, and other irritants that can worsen mucous production.
Expectorants: Over-the-counter expectorants can thin mucous and facilitate easier coughing.
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Head elevation: Sleeping with your head elevated prevents mucous from pooling in your throat.
Healthy lifestyle: Maintain a balanced diet, regular exercise, and manage stress to support your immune system and reduce phlegm production.
Consult a healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen for further evaluation and treatment, said Dr Soni.
