Before we start talking about the remedies, let us understand, what is a cough? Generally speaking, coughing is a normal and natural process that helps in keeping your throat clear from phlegm and other irritants. However, if you are suffering sustained coughing, you try these home remedies to cure coughing.
Here is the list of top home remedies you can use to treat cough.
1. Honey
Honey is known to provide relieve from coughs more effectively than many over-the-counter medicines. You can create your own home remedy simply by mixing 2 teaspoons of honey, with herbal tea or warm water and lemon. Lemon juice help with the congestion, while honey soothes the throat.
You can also search the internet, to know about home remedies for cough with honey.
2. Probiotics
Probiotics are microorganisms that provide many health benefits. They don’t relieve cough directly, but they help in balancing your gastrointestinal flora. They are the bacteria that are present in your intestines.
This balance supports your immune system, allowing it to function more efficiently. Evidence also suggests that Lactobacillus (bacteria present in dairy), can reduce the likelihood of flu or cold.
You can find probiotics in almost every drug store. Remember, each manufacturer recommends different intakes of probiotics in a day. So, read the label carefully.
3. Bromelain
You might not have heard of pineapple used as a cough remedy. This is because you don’t know about bromelain. Bromelain is an enzyme found in the stem and fruit of pineapples help in suppressing coughs as well as loosen the mucus in your throat. To get the best results, eat a slice of pineapple or drink around 3 ounces of fresh pineapple juice. Bromelain is also available in the form of supplements as well.
Note: Adults and children who are on blood thinners should not take this supplement. Also, if you are taking antibiotics like amoxicillin, Bromelain can increase the absorption of the antibiotics. It is best to consult a doctor before taking any supplements.
4. Peppermint
Peppermint leaves are famous for their healing properties. Menthol soothes the throats and acts as a decongestant, which helps in breaking down the mucus. You can also get the benefit by drinking tea or by inhaling peppermint vapors from a steam bath.
5. Marshmallow
Marshmallow is made from a perennial flower Althaea Officinalis that blooms in summer. The roots and leaves of the flower have been used for hundreds of years for treating sore throats and suppress coughs. Though there are no studies that prove these claims, the herb is safe to use.
The herb contains mucilage, which helps in soothing irritation.
You can find marshmallow root in capsule or tea form. The warm tea soothes cough and provides relief from sore throat.
Note: Marshmallow root is not safe for children.
6. Thyme
Thyme is known for providing relief from respiratory illnesses. According to a study the essence extracted from the leaves of thyme when mixed with ivy can help relieve cough and short-term bronchitis. The leaves also contain compounds called flavonoids, which relaxes the throat muscles and lessen the inflammation.
You can consume thyme in a form of tea. Take 2 teaspoons of thyme crushed leaves and 1 cup of boiling water. Cover the cup for 10 minutes and strain.
7. Salt and water gargle
It is one of the most simple and effective ways to treat coughs. A salt and water gargle can help soothe a scratchy throat, which causes a cough. Mix ¼ teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water and gargle for 4-5 times.
Remember that children under the age of 7 are not proficient at gargling. It is best to use other remedies for this particular age group.
(All these remedies are suitable for mild coughs only. If you are suffering from severe coughing of having a sore throat that pains a lot, visit a doctor to get proper treatment.)
How to prevent coughing
It is best to prevent the cough than treating cough. Here are some steps you can take in order to prevent cough:
- Avoid coming in contact with a person who is sick. If you are sick, avoid going to school or work.
- Always cover your mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing.
- Drink ample amount of water to stay hydrated.
- Keep your home clean.
- Wash your hands frequently, especially after eating, coughing. And after using bathroom.
When to call your doctor
If you are having problems in breathing or you are coughing up blood, you should visit your doctor immediately.
Other symptoms that requires attention of a doctor are:
- Dehydration
- Chills
- Malaise
- Fever (101 degree F)
- Thick, green or yellow colored phlegm.
