Why is Cough Syrup classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4) and what specific additives does it contain?

The product combines multiple isolated plant extracts, added sugars, caramel colour, and synthetic preservatives (methyl paraben, propyl paraben, and sodium benzoate), which together meet the criteria for an ultra-processed food in the NOVA classification.

How does the high sugar content in this cough syrup impact diabetic or hypertensive individuals?

With roughly 60 g of sugar per 100 ml, the syrup can cause rapid blood‑glucose spikes, making it unsuitable for diabetics, and the excess sugar may contribute to weight gain and elevated blood pressure, which can aggravate hypertension.

Is the licorice (Yashtimadhu) ingredient in this syrup a concern for people with high blood pressure?

Licorice contains glycyrrhizin, which can raise sodium retention and blood pressure; therefore, individuals with hypertension should use the syrup cautiously or avoid it.

Multani Kuka

Cough Syrup

Dietary Supplements

Product Insights

Cough Syrup is an Ayurvedic, plant-based liquid formulation marketed for soothing coughs, featuring extracts of Tulsi, Vasaka, Kulanjan, Licorice (Yashtimadhu), Pippali and Satpudina. It is classified as an ultra-processed product (NOVA 4) with a non-applicable Nutri-Score, contains a notable amount of sugar (approximately 60 g per 100 ml) and synthetic preservatives such as methyl and propyl parabens, sodium benzoate and caramel colour. While the herbal extracts aim to provide traditional therapeutic benefits, the high sweetener load and additive profile may deter health-conscious consumers seeking cleaner, low-sugar remedies.

Comparative Analysis

Compared with typical over-the-counter cough syrups, this Ayurvedic formula offers a richer blend of herbal extracts but also contains a higher sugar concentration and synthetic preservatives, positioning it more as a sweetened medicinal syrup than a low-calorie, clean-label alternative.

Ingredients

Each 10 ml contains extracts derived from: Dct. of: Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) (Lf.) 50 mg, Vasaka (Adhatoda vasica) (Lf.) 400 mg, Kulanjan (Alpinia galanga) (Rz.) 400 mg, Yashtimadhu (Glycyrrhiza glabra) (Rt.) 400 mg, Pippali (Piper longum) (Fr.) 200 mg, Satpudina (Mentha spicata) (Lf.Ext.) 2 mg, Sugar (Saccharum officinarum) 6000 mg, Excipients Q.S. Colour: Caramel Preservatives: Methyl Paraben (IP) Propyl Paraben (IP) and Sodium Benzoate (IP)

84%

35%