Nov 24, 2025

8 Indian ingredients known to soothe throat and chest during smog season

Aanya Mehta

Black Pepper

Stimulates circulation and opens airways. Often combined with honey and ginger to reduce throat scratchiness and chest tightness.

Source: unsplash

Ginger

A powerful expectorant that loosens mucus, eases chest congestion and reduces coughing. Ginger tea is a classic smog season remedy.

Source: unsplash

Honey

A natural antimicrobial that coats the throat, reduces irritation, and calms cough reflexes triggered by smog particles.

Source: unsplash

Jaggery

Warms the body, helps clear lung congestion and boosts respiratory health. Often combined with sesame seeds or ginger in winter.

Source: unsplash

Ajwain

Opens nasal passages, reduces congestion and eases chest heaviness. Ajwain steam inhalation is a traditional home remedy during pollution spikes.

Source: unsplash

Mulethi

Soothes sore throats, eases dry cough and reduces inflammation in the chest. Mulethi tea is gentle yet effective.

Source: unsplash

Tulsi

Tulsi leaves help reduce throat irritation and improve lung function. Drinking tulsi kadha or tea is excellent for pollution-heavy days.

Source: unsplash

Turmeric

Rich in curcumin, turmeric reduces inflammation in the respiratory tract and soothes throat irritation. Warm haldi milk or turmeric water is especially helpful.

Source: unsplash

What happens when you don’t consume sugar every day for a month?