Sitopaladi – The Sweet Cough Remedy
Sitopaladi is an ayurvedic formulation made up of five main constituents. The name Sitopaladi indicates the sweet rock candy it contains. It works primarily as an expectorant and is therefore particularly beneficial during the seasonal changes that bring a rise in colds and flus. Sitopaladi also works as an antiasthmatic, febrifuge and a diaphoretic. It is therefore useful during shortness of breath and bronchitis as it helps to clear the congestion and allows prana to flow when it is obstructed by excess mucus and sputum.
Clear Throat
Clear Throat is a fast-acting formula that cools and soothes the throat, and aids in removing impurities from the respiratory system.
Properties
Sitopaladi is a light, oily herb and has a sweet, pungent taste with a heating effect in the body. It has a sweet post digestive effect and it works especially well on the digestive and respiratory systems.
The Five Constituents:
- Pippali (long pepper)
- Twak (cinnamon)
- Vamsa Lochana
- Elae (cardamom)
- Sitopala (rock candy)
Sniffle Free
Sniffle Free helps to improve natural resistance against cold; helps drain excess mucus from the sinuses.
Despite the formula containing rock candy, the remaining herbs are heating in nature and work effectively together to help break down the excess mucus and congestion in the respiratory system. As the herbs are also strong digestives they are beneficial in cases of weak digestive fire. The vamsa lochana is particularly beneficial with infected phlegm and hot fevers, working as an excellent expectorant. Pippali works as a rejuvenative to the respiratory system and cardamom and cinnamon also help break down the congestion.
Note: If there are signs of high heat in the body, then combine with other cooling herbs as sitopaladi is also heating.
Some indications, amongst others, include:
- Allergies
- Bronchitis
- Asthma
- Coughs
- Colds & Flu
- Fever
- Sinus congestion
- Sinus headaches
Bio-Immune
Supports natural immunity; helps detoxify blood and promotes cellular regeneration.
Usage:
There are several combination compounds that involve Sitopaladi to address certain conditions. Some being:
- Sitopaladi with Mahasudarshan when fever and inflammation are present due to increased heat
- Sitopaladi with Trikatu for intense congestion and mucous
- Sitopaladi with Haritaki, Pitshirisha and anthrapachaka for respiratory allergies
- Sitopaladi with Talisadi, Osha and Echinacea during colds and sinus congestion
- Taking a pinch with ½ teaspoon of honey is also an effective and delicious way of relieving colds. Brewed in a tea and sipped during the day may bring relief to excess sinus congestion and headaches.
- As always, consult with your physician and practitioner before starting an herbal program.
Disclaimer:
This information is strictly for educational purpose only and not considered medical advice. Always first discuss with your primary care physician before considering any new health regimen.
References
- Lad, V. (2002). Textbook of Ayurveda. Albuquerque, N.M.: Ayurvedic Press.
- Lad, V., & Frawley, D. (1986). The yoga of herbs: An Ayurvedic guide to herbal medicine
- Pole, S. (2013). Ayurvedic medicine the principles of traditional practice.
- Green, J. (2000). The herbal medicine-makers’ handbook a home manual.