Kalmegh: A Natural Remedy for Respiratory Health Amid Rising Air Pollution
As winter descends, Delhi battles alarming pollution levels from garbage burning, road dust, factory emissions, and vehicular gases, intensifying respiratory health concerns. Renowned lifestyle coach and nutritionist Luke Coutinho highlights Kalmegh, an Ayurvedic herb, as a promising natural remedy. Scientifically known as Andrographis paniculata, Kalmegh is celebrated for its anti-inflammatory, mucolytic, and immune-boosting properties, helping alleviate respiratory issues like asthma and bronchitis.
Kalmegh: A Natural Shield Against Delhi’s Rising Air Pollution
Rich in antioxidants, it combats oxidative stress caused by pollution and aids in toxin elimination. Coutinho advises consulting healthcare professionals for safe usage, emphasizing its potential as a supplementary aid in managing respiratory health amidst Delhi’s pollution crisis.
Benefits of Kalmegh for Respiratory Health
Scientific name Andrographis paniculata, Kalmegh is one of the oldest medicinal plants known to Ayurvedic practice. Luke claims that because of its anti-inflammatory property, it could reduce the inflammation that patients undergo in their respiratory system, thus giving relief to asthma and COPD patients.
Luke also underlines its mucolytic effects, which enable thinning the mucus and easier expulsion through the respiratory system, especially beneficial for patients experiencing the syndrome of bronchitis or who are lingeringly affected by systemic respiratory infections.
Another benefit is that Kalmegh can strengthen the immune system. This herb is rich in active compounds, including andrographolide, which helps to ward off the scourge of pollutants, making it effective against respiratory infection; its antioxidants protect cells from the oxidative damage caused by exposure to harmful pollutants.
It may also help to remove toxins from the body and prevent hypersensitivity and acute inflammation, which are brought about by pollution. This drug is, therefore, the best way to enhance the health of the lungs in polluted environments.
How to Use Kalmegh Safely
Luke says that Kalmegh leaves are best boiled in water to make a herbal tea or get commercially available capsule from brands like Organic India. However, he would always recommend consultation with healthcare professionals especially for someone whose respiratory condition is serious or has other medication.
A Note of Caution
Luke cautions against non-judicious use of Kalmegh, stating some possible contraindications along with incomplete studies on some herbal medicines. So, he advises such people to take guidance from either allopathy or Ayurvedic doctors for its safe and effective usage.
As the capital city of the country is fighting the pollution war, infusing Kalmegh under able leadership would gradually help the lungs breathe fresher air and enjoy better respiration.
