‘100% you can escape it': Kangana Ranaut suggests home remedy to prevent catching a cold; we ask experts to weigh in

Indian Express

03-05-2025

Cranking up the air conditioner on summer afternoons might seem like the only respite from unbearable heat, but walking in and out of temperature-controlled rooms can often result in a horrid cold, which can take days to heal. But Kangana Ranaut seems to have a solution.
In a recent conversation with Mamaraazzi, the Fashion actor shared a home remedy that, according to her, can prevent an incoming cold.
She suggested taking some amla, haldi, ginger, and a bit of black pepper, adding them to water, and bringing the concoction to a boil. Strain and sip it. ' Agar aapko cold hone wala ho, aap ye lenge toh 100% you can escape it (If you can feel like you are about to catch a cold, have this mix),' said the Member of Parliament.
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But does this concoction do what Kangana Ranaut claims it does? We reached out to health experts to find out.
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Alternative healing expert Anadi Sharma shared that the drink is rich in vitamins and antioxidants that can be beneficial in fighting off a common cold. According to him, amla is an excellent source of vitamin C that helps boost immunity, and turmeric fights internal inflammation. 'Black pepper, on the other hand, helps improve absorption of nutrients like curcumin present in turmeric as well as prevents cold and congestion, besides supporting digestion and gut health,' he explained.
'The concoction helps maintain electrolyte balance when consumed with a pinch of salt. It detoxifies the body gently and naturally, regulates body heat during summer, and also brightens skin and improves hair strength over time,' he added.
Dr Prashant Saxena, senior director & HOD, Pulmonology, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Fortis Hospital, Vasant Kunj, Delhi, also told indianexpress.com that Kangana Ranaut's blend is not only celebrated in traditional Indian medicine but also garners interest regarding its effectiveness in preventing colds.
According to him, inflammation plays a significant role in the development of colds. The anti-inflammatory effects of both haldi and black pepper can help mitigate symptoms associated with upper respiratory infections, thus potentially reducing the duration and severity of colds. 'The combination of these ingredients provides a boost to the immune system. Turmeric and amla are particularly noted for their high antioxidant content, which helps combat oxidative stress in the body,' he added.
However, in a cautionary note, he added that while there is substantial anecdotal evidence and traditional practices surrounding the use of these ingredients, more rigorous scientific studies are needed to establish their efficacy in cold prevention fully.
Fight the cold with this home remedy (Source: Freepik)
How can you incorporate it into your diet?
According to Sharma, the best time to drink it is in the morning, before breakfast, or mid-morning, when your stomach isn't too full.
'You can throw in some tulsi while boiling, or add a little honey once it cools a bit—it tastes nicer that way. Make a batch for a couple of days, keep it in the fridge, and gently warm it when you want to drink,' he said. However, he warned against pairing it with tea, coffee, or milk immediately afterward. Wait about 30 minutes to enjoy your beverage of choice. Sharma recommended having it 3–4 times a week, but if it suits your body, you can even make it a daily ritual.