Indian Kitchen Remedies for Cold and Flu
Fight cold and flu naturally with Indian kitchen remedies. Discover turmeric milk, ginger-honey mix, tulsi tea & more for quick relief at home.

When cold and flu strike, most of us rush to the pharmacy. But before you do, remember that the Indian kitchen has been a trusted home clinic for centuries. From haldi to tulsi, our spices and herbs offer relief that is natural, effective, and safe. Here are some tried-and-tested remedies straight from the heart of Indian households:
1. Turmeric Milk (Haldi Doodh)
A classic healer. Mix half a teaspoon of turmeric powder in a cup of warm milk. Drink it before bedtime. It soothes the throat, reduces inflammation, and helps you sleep better.
2. Ginger-Tulsi Tea
Boil fresh ginger slices with 5–6 tulsi (holy basil) leaves in water. Add a teaspoon of honey before drinking. This tea eases congestion, relieves cough, and boosts immunity.
3. Steam Inhalation with Ajwain Seeds
Add a teaspoon of carom seeds (ajwain) to hot water and inhale the steam. It clears nasal passages and provides quick relief from blocked sinuses.
4. Honey and Black Pepper
Mix a pinch of ground black pepper with a teaspoon of honey. Take this 2–3 times a day. It calms throat irritation and reduces coughing spells.
5. Warm Salt Water Gargle
Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in warm water and gargle twice daily. It reduces throat pain and kills bacteria.
6. Kadha (Herbal Decoction)
Boil tulsi, cinnamon, black pepper, dry ginger, and cardamom in water until it reduces to half. Add honey before drinking. This age-old remedy strengthens immunity and fights flu symptoms.
Final Word
Home remedies may not replace medicines in severe cases, but they are excellent for early relief and boosting immunity. The beauty of Indian kitchen remedies lies in their simplicity — no side effects, just the healing power of nature.