Diljit Dosanjh’s desi winter nuskha promises to cure cold and cough — but does it really work?

Decoding the health benefits

Indianexpress.com spoke to Dr. Yashawant Kumar – Founder and CEO, Benefic Nutrition and found out the health benefits of this drink and understood what each ingredient in this traditional recipe does.

Almonds: Packed with healthy fats, proteins, and vitamin E, almonds add nutritional value and mild nourishment. They are a good source of energy but not a direct decongestant.

Ghee: Ghee can help soothe and lubricate irritated throat. It can calm mucosal membranes and offer symptomatic relief.

Besan: Besan is not directly therapeutic, nevertheless it has Vitamin B₁ and antioxidants, which can help with fatigue during sickness.

Milk: Milk can comfort and calm the body. When taken along with spices and ghee, it can help clear mucus and fall asleep better.

Turmeric Powder: Turmeric is proven to have antiviral, antiseptic, and antibacterial properties. The curcumin in haldi has anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce inflammation.

Black Pepper Powder: When black pepper is taken along with turmeric, it can help with the absorption of curcumin by the body. Black pepper also has antibacterial properties and can help relax sore throat.

Cardamom Powder: Cardamom has a long history of serving as an ingredient in various Ayurvedic medicines for respiratory discomfort. It can help with digestion and congestion.

Diljit’s Instagram story (Source: Instagram/@diljitdosanjh)

Ginger Powder: Ginger is known to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It can soothe throat inflammation and suppress cough.

Kesar: There is no evidence of kesar helping to relieve cough. However, it might offer a warm thermogenic effect.

Jaggery Powder: The sweet taste of jaggery helps in improving palatability during illness. It may also help soothe the throat and clear mucus.

Can it help cure cold and cough?

According to Dr Kumar, turmeric, black pepper, and ginger can help reduce inflammation and congestion. “Almonds and besan can provide much needed nutrients to the body and can relieve fatigue. They also aid digestion and improve energy levels during illness. Milk and ghee can help relax and fall asleep better,” he explained.

However, he warned that this remedy is not proven clinically and is not a scientific cure. The ingredients in this recipe only offer temporary symptomatic relief and comfort. “Clearly, it’s a clean home remedy with its ingredients rooted in Indian Ayurveda,” said Dr Kumar, adding that the drink indeed has the potential of providing a soothing and calming experience to the body during cold and cough.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.