6 REMEDIES TO GET BACK TASTE AND SMELL ASAP
COVID-19 doesn’t only affect taste and smell, but also causes other problems such as fever, body ache, constipation, dry cough, and so on. But in most cases, loss of taste and smell is commonly seen. Taste and smell can return in about 2–4 weeks, as the virus clears off from the body.
Why is loss of taste and smell more commonly seen in COVID-19?
According to researchers, it is not clearly stated why only taste and smell are affected. But some theories state that SARS-CoV-2 causes inflammation of the olfactory neurons, hence damaging or compromising the sense of smell. Speaking of the sense of taste, it is interlinked with smell. The olfactory bulb is a section in our brain that detects flavors. So, when we eat an orange, we know it is sweet, but as we are not able to understand the flavor, we won’t be able to state that it’s orangey.
Is loss of taste and smell the only symptom of COVID-19?
Of course not. Loss of taste and smell is a recovery symptom of COVID-19. As the virus leaves the body after 2 weeks, the damage it has done is seen in the form of this symptom.
Other COVID symptoms to look out for:
- Cough
- Congestion
- High fever
- Body ache
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Weakness
How fast can you get your taste and smell back?
Usually, taste and smell return after 2–4 weeks, but some people get their taste back in just 1 week. Here are some methods you can use to regain your taste and smell faster:
1. Eucalyptus Leaves
Eucalyptus leaves have medicinal actions that are best for treating respiratory tract infections and relieving congestion. Eucalyptol is a powerful expectorant (expectorants break up phlegm) and helps clear the airway. It also reduces inflammation in the respiratory tract due to the presence of tannins.
How to use:
If you have a steam machine, put 2–3 eucalyptus leaves on the nozzle or in the water.
2. Peppermint Oil
According to researchers, peppermint oil contains menthol, which has expectorant properties that help thin mucus and break down phlegm. It is not only good for the respiratory system but also for the skin, as it treats acne. Peppermint essential oil has a strong aroma which is helpful for recovering the sense of smell.
How to use:
Essential oils can be strong on the skin, so do not use them directly.
Take a Q-tip and put one drop of essential oil on it.
Take full cycles of deep breaths, inhaling the aroma of the peppermint oil, or put 2–3 drops in the steamer.
3. Coffee Beans
The coffee test for COVID-19 is gaining popularity. Having no smell of strong coffee can be an indication of COVID-19. Coffee beans have a strong aroma that helps retrain the olfactory bulb and regain the sense of smell.
How to use:
Take 3–4 coffee beans or a cup of coffee and try to sniff it without exhaling.
With each inhale (from the nose), try to increase the intensity to maximum, and finally exhale fully through the mouth.
4. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has antibacterial and antiseptic properties. It helps relieve blockage in the nose by treating nasal congestion.
How to use:
Take a few drops of tea tree oil in your steam, or sniff straight from the bottle, or apply it on a Q-tip first.
5. Cayenne Pepper
At first, you may not feel any spice on the tongue, but it could tingle at the back of the palate. Try cayenne pepper, green chilies, red chilies, or hot sauces in your food. Cayenne pepper contains capsaicin, which helps reduce nasal congestion and also brings back taste quickly.
How to use:
Add cayenne pepper to your food. Try not to add too much, as it can cause heat in the body and lead to gastric issues.
6. Lemon Water
Lemon is rich in Vitamin C, making it a good antioxidant. It has an acidic taste and sour flavor that can help stimulate the palate. It also benefits the immune system by reducing oxidative stress in the cells.
How to use:
Squeeze a full lemon into a glass of water without adding sugar or salt.
The goal is to drink it every morning and once or twice during the day.
Try not to drink ice-cold water, as it can worsen the condition. Instead, take lukewarm water.
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