We’re indeed blessed in Bengaluru to have changing seasons, but they tend to take us by surprise. One minute it’s summer and the next, the monsoon’s abated, Diwali’s come and gone, and the air has become nippy. And while each season has its woes, the winter combination of the dropping temperatures and the dry air is no good for those of us with respiratory illnesses.

Each of us have our pet remedies for these times. Some swear by their Ayurvedic Kashayams while others rely on their Vicks Vaporub or Axe Oils. And honorary mention to those who believe in that good old-fashioned solution – taking steam. But how about we spend a few minutes to get into the magic solution that is often right under our very noses - especially in Malhar. The greenery we have.

We already know how important our tree cover is in helping to reduce the particulate matter that hangs in the air during the dry season. But there’s also one more reason to thank our green canopy in Malhar – it acts like a natural humidifier during the dry season, easing those air passages that would otherwise be extra irritated during this time.

Crafting green spaces for enhanced air quality

Living at Malhar, we've been able to observe how plants and trees can be planted in different ways to make winter weather woes a bit less troublesome. For instance, here, the areas with high traffic have hardier trees that can withstand the high levels of particulate matter and ozone typical of vehicular emissions (and they still purify the air in spite of this heavy load on them).

Better air and better lungs with the Indian Gooseberry

The more pristine spaces within Malhar, on the other hand, are dedicated to native fruiting trees, loved by all the Malharites. But ask around and you'll notice there is a firm favourite, the Indian Gooseberry or the Amla tree. It’s highly efficient in oxygen production, carbon fixation, and air filtration. The best thing about it, eating Amla, a winter fruit, is a great way to combat respiratory issues associated with the season. That’s why breathing in the fresh air around us and munching on some of the healthiest food offerings available in our community seems like a good way to spend the winter months.

So, as the winter chill settles over Bengaluru, perhaps the best remedy isn't something we buy from a pharmacy or brew in our kitchens. It's right here in Malhar – in the rustling leaves that clean our air, in the green canopy that keeps moisture where we need it, and in the Amla fruits hanging from our trees. It's a reminder that sometimes the most effective solutions to seasonal challenges are the ones we cultivate in our avenues and backyards.