How to Use Turmeric for a Cold

Turmeric is one of many natural remedies used to treat the common cold.

Though there isn't a cure for the common cold, there are treatments for it. If you'd like to try a natural remedy to treat your cold symptoms, the spice turmeric combined with milk could bring some relief. Turmeric has antiseptic properties, and can act as a decongestant by increasing nasal discharge. This remedy is safe for both adults and children.

Things You'll Need

• Milk
• Ladle
• Fresh turmeric powder

Instructions

1. Heat a ladle over an open fire.

2. Place 1/4 tsp. fresh turmeric powder into the hot ladle.

3. Pour 15 ml of milk over your turmeric.

4. Hold your ladle over a slowly burning fire until the milk starts burning.

5. Hold your head at a comfortable distance above the ladle and inhale the smoke from the burning turmeric to relieve nasal congestion.

6. Drink the turmeric and milk mixture to relieve an irritated throat.

Tips & Warnings

• If you don't want to use a fire, you can add turmeric to milk warmed over a stove or in the microwave. This will have the same throat soothing effects, but you will miss the benefits of inhaling the turmeric smoke.

• Turmeric emits a strong odor when heated.

References

• Good Health N You: Common Cold
• The Asian Parent: Home Remedies for Cold
• Hashmi: Food Supplements