Steam and hot liquids are also effective home remedies for coughing. These remedies are not backed by scientific research, but you may still find them helpful.
Home solutions for Cough
The home remedies for coughs can range from herbal remedies, to steam and hot drinks. While many of these remedies have been used for a long time, the scientific evidence of their effectiveness is often limited. It won’t harm to try some of these remedies, if you want relief without taking medication.
Remember that in some cases self-treating your cough with natural remedies or medications, without consulting a doctor, can cause the condition to worsen.
1. Honey
Honey is a traditional remedy for sore throats. It’s not only delicious in drinks and desserts. Honey’s thick consistency soothes the throat because it coats it.
It is a great remedy for coughs. One study found that it relieved nighttime coughs better than a placebo.
Add 2 teaspoons honey and a squeezed lemon to herbal tea or warm water. Honey can be taken on its own.
2. Marshmallow Root
Since thousands of years, marshmallow root has been used to treat sore throats and coughs. It’s a demulcent. This means that it forms a thin protective film on mucous membranes to relieve irritation and inflammation.
As with other demulcent herbs marshmallow root can help soothe dry coughs. In one study, marshmallow root syrup and lozenges relieved dry coughs within 10 minutes.
The best way to prepare marshmallow root is with cold water. Soak 1 tablespoon of the dried, shredded root (not powdered), in 2 cups of cold water. Let it rest in the fridge for four or more hours, but at least overnight. After straining, you can drink your tea whenever needed.
3. Ginger
Ginger is a common ingredient found in many kitchens. It has anti-inflammatory (cough suppressant), and antitussive properties. This aromatic spice helps to remove mucus and reduce coughing by breaking down the mucus in the lungs.
In one study, it was found that purified ginger, when used in a nebulizer to relax the airways of people and reduce coughing – specifically, dry coughs caused by asthma – helped relieve coughing.
Make ginger tea by adding one piece of ginger to three cups boiling water after peeling it and slicing it thinly. Boil the water for 10 minutes. Strain and serve with honey and lemon slices.
4. Carom Thyme
Since ancient times, people have relied on Carom Thyme for dry, irritating coughs. The leaves of the herb contain compounds that reduce inflammation and relax throat muscles.
Some studies suggest that Carom Thyme can reduce coughing, either alone or when combined with other herbs. A number of studies have shown that combining Carom Thyme with primrose and English ivy can reduce the severity and frequency of coughs, as well as the other symptoms of acute lung disease.
Make a soothing tea with Carom Thyme by steeping two teaspoons of crushed leaves in one cup of boiling hot water for 10 min. You can drink it plain or add honey.
5. Peppermint
Peppermint contains the menthol that can help soothe your throat, and break down mucus to make your cough more productive.
Many over-the counter cold relief products, such as herbal teas or peppermint drops, contain peppermint. These products may help relieve your cough. You can also try inhaling steam made from boiling water with peppermint oil.
Peppermint can cause bronchial spasms in babies and toddlers. Avoid applying it under their noses or to their chests.
6. Turmeric
Turmeric, a popular spice derived from the roots of Curcuma Longifolia, is used in a variety of cough remedies. The active ingredient of turmeric, curcumin, is thought to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Other home remedies include adding the powder to hot milk, or gargling with saltwater.
7. Slippery Elm
It has been used for centuries as a herbal remedy to treat coughs and sore throats. It can be purchased in the form of tablets, capsules or tea. You can buy slippery elm cough drops.
This may help relieve inflammation or irritation. This can help reduce inflammation or irritation. Slippery elm is used to treat disorders in the GI system, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), that may cause coughing.
There hasn’t yet been enough research to support the use of slippery-elm as an anti-cough remedy.
8. Pineapple Enzyme
Bromelain can be found in pineapple stems and fruits. Bromelain has been shown to reduce inflammation and could relieve cough. The research is limited.
Bromelain should be avoided if you are taking a blood thinner. Bromelain can also interfere with some antibiotics. Talk to your doctor before you take bromelain, if you are also taking antibiotics.
9. N-Acetylcysteine (NAC)
N-acetylcysteine is an antioxidant believed to have many health benefits, including cancer prevention and cough suppression. In a medical setting, it’s used to treat Tylenol overdose (acetaminophen).
NAC is thought to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. It may also help dissolve mucus.
NAC can be purchased over the counter as a powder or capsule.
10. Water vapour
Steam is an old remedy to treat cough. Use a humidifier or sit in a steamy shower while in the bathroom. Moisture softens mucus and makes it easier to remove from your lungs and throat.
11. Use mouthwash
Warm salt water may also improve symptoms of cough. Dissolve 1/2 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces water. Gargle for a couple of seconds in the back your throat, and then spit out. Continue until the entire glass is used.
You can repeat this remedy several times per day.
12. Warm Herbal Broth or Tea
Warm liquids like herbal tea and clear broth will help thin the mucus to make it easier to remove. Add honey to herbal teas like peppermint and ginger.
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Many home remedies are available for coughing. Some remedies are supported by limited scientific evidence while others are traditional remedies that have a long tradition of use. The majority of these remedies are free from side effects, and you can try them without risk.
Honey, turmeric, ginger, steam and hot liquids can help relieve your symptoms. Check with your doctor before using any herbs or supplements.
