No doubt unseasonal rains bring respite from the sweltering heat but they can also lead to many health complications including cough, cold, flu, and fever. Such temperature fluctuations can take an even greater toll on children, making it stressful for parents. Additionally, it can be challenging to convince children to have cough syrups (given their bitter taste). But what if we tell you that there exists a tried-and-tested Ayurvedic remedy (read: candy) that can help alleviate the symptoms of seasonal cold and cough in children. Wondering what this super remedy is? Dr Rekha Radhamony, an Ayurveda expert, has the answer: 'Panam Kalkandam'. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dr. Rekha Radhamony, Ayurveda (@doctorrekha) Taking to Instagram, the expert shared that 'panam kalkandam' or crystallised palm jaggery has the power to liquefy phlegm. "It can be consumed by both kids and adults," she shared, adding that this candy can be given to babies - 6 months or older- with phlegm issues. "You can give this by adding it to ragi or other porridge," her post added. Agreed Dr Lakshmi Varma K, Consultant and advisor at LYEF Wellness, and said that panam kalkkandam is a "very popular traditional adjuvant of Ayurvedic medications, especially in the southerm parts of India. It is a form of crystal sugar candy made from palm trees." "It is considered to have special medicinal effect on chest congestion and phlegm in children suffering from cough and cold. It is better choice of sweetening agent for cough and cold medicine in children, which are usually spicy in nature to make it palatable, when compared to normal processed sugar. It is usually used in combination with dry ginger which increases its efficacy in respiratory problems. It can be taken as it is like a candy or can be used as a sweetener in hot medicated drinks," she told indianexpress.com, adding that being a form of sugar, it also gives instant energy and can reduce tiredness. Ingredients 1-inch piece of dry ginger 1.5-inch piece of palm jaggery crystals Method Boil 2 glasses of water and add dry ginger and palm jaggery crystals. Reduce the water to half. It should be consumed warm. "If mucous persists, take it a couple of times during the day," she suggested. 📣 For more lifestyle news, follow us on Instagram | Twitter | Facebook and don't miss out on the latest updates!
