3 Ayurveda-approved steam blends for blocked nose and scratchy throat

Every winter, as a dense grey haze blankets Delhi, the familiar conversations around pollution return. On Saturday, Delhi recorded an average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 335 at 9 am, placing it in the 'red zone' and making it the most polluted city in the country, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). The current condition of the national capital has resulted in an increasing number of people suffering from illness, fever, scratchy throat, and blocked nose. While anti-allergic medicines and air purifiers are at the rescue, there are people who are trying to refrain from all this and try to boost their immunity the natural way. Focusing on the Ayurvedic perspective on blocked nose and scratchy throat, celebrity nutritionist Shweta Shah recently shared a carousel post on Instagram and explained Ayurveda-approved steam blends that one can try at home. Her post reads, :Struggling with a cold, cough, blocked nose, or scratchy throat?" Don’t rush to pills just yet! Try these simple yet powerful Ayurvedic steam blends to clear sinuses, soothe the throat, and calm the mind naturally. She shared three remedies that one can try at home and breathe easy, feel light, and stay healthy.

Best for: Cold, cough, and blocked nose
To make this, you need 7-8 tulsi leaves, 1 tsp ajwain, a pinch of rock salt, and 2-3 drops of eucalyptus oil. All you need to do is, boil in water, cover your head, and inhale deeply for 5-8 minutes. It will help clear kapha from the chest and sinuses.
What does Ayurveda say: In Ayurveda, Tulsi (Holy Basil) is mentioned as the “Queen of Herbs” and a powerful natural remedy for respiratory wellness. It is known for its Kaphaghna (kapha-balancing) and Ushna (warming) properties, which help clear mucus, open the airways, and support easy breathing. It is said that tulsi leaves are rich in essential oils like eugenol, camphene, and cineole, which have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and expectorant effects. These compounds help fight respiratory infections, soothe sore throats, and relieve congestion.

Best for: Instant relief during viral onset
To make this, you need 1 tsp ajwain, 1 bay leaf, and a pinch of black pepper. Boil it, inhale and you are done. It is considered to be potent vapor that opens blocked pathways in minutes.
What does Ayurveda say: As per Ayurveda, ajwain or carom seed is considered as a potent spice for maintaining respiratory wellness. It is known for its Ushna (warming) and Kapha-Vata balancing properties, which helps clear congestion, dissolve mucus, and ease breathing difficulties. The active compound thymol in ajwain has powerful antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and bronchodilatory effects, making it highly effective in relieving symptoms of cough, cold, asthma, and bronchitis.

Best for: Scratchy throat, dry cough, and fatigue
To make it, you need 3-4 cloves, 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, and a few tulsi or mint leaves. All you need to do is, steam for 5 minutes and you are done. It is said that clove's warmth and ginger's prana-boost works as the perfect immunity kick. What does Ayurveda say: Ginger or adrak is considered one of the most powerful herbs for maintaining respiratory balance and overall vitality. It possesses strong Ushna (warming), Kaphavatahara (Kapha- and Vata-balancing), and Deepana (digestive fire-enhancing) properties, making it highly effective in clearing mucus, congestion, and toxins from the respiratory tract. The bioactive compound gingerol in ginger provides anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and expectorant benefits, which help ease cough, sore throat, and breathing discomfort. And when it comes to clove, the active compound eugenol in clove provides strong antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and pain-relieving properties, helping fight respiratory infections and soothe irritation in the throat.

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this article—is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.