Generally speaking, coughing is perfectly normal. A cough can help to keep your throat clear from phlegm and other irritants. Irritants are substances in the air that irritate your throat or nasal passages and can cause coughing. A cough is your body’s way of rejecting that irritant. Sometimes the irritant comes in the form of an allergen, such as pollen or pet dander. This causes your body’s immune system to create chemicals called histamines that react to the allergen. If you have a cough that arises immediately in a certain environment or season, you may have an allergy.
While many people reach for over-the-counter medicines, experts say that many of them are a waste of money. A Harvard University report notes, "According to American College of Chest Physicians guidelines, many of the active ingredients in over-the-counter cough remedies are ineffective.”
So, how to quell that cough without resorting to over-the-counter medicines that are possibly ineffective and may offer a host of their own side effects? With natural remedies, of course. Here are some favorite folk ways to relieve a nagging cough.
Honey
Honey is a time-honored remedy for a sore throat. According to one study, it can also relieve coughs more effectively than over-the-counter medicines that contain dextromethorphan (DM), a cough suppressant.
You can create your own remedy at home by mixing up to two teaspoons of honey with herbal tea or warm water and lemon. The honey does the soothing, while the lemon juice can help with congestion. You can also simply eat the honey by the spoonful or spread it on bread for a snack
Turmeric
The turmeric contains curcumin, the active agent that has strong anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is therefore quite effective in treating viral infections like cough and cold.
Take a teaspoon of fine turmeric powder and mix it up with equal amount of carom seeds. Now add them to boiling water and let it boil until only half of it remains. Add a little honey to this solution and take it thrice a day. You can also drink warm milk with some turmeric to experience relief for dry cough.
Black pepper and honey tea
For a wet cough, you can try a black pepper and honey remedy that is said to work because the pepper stimulates circulation and mucus flow and the honey is a natural cough reliever. Use one teaspoon of freshly ground pepper and two tablespoon of honey in a mug, and fill with boiling water. Cover and allow to steep for 15 minutes, strain and sip
Bromelain
You don’t usually think of pineapple as a cough remedy, but that’s probably because you’ve never heard of bromelain. There is evidence to suggest that bromelain — an enzyme found only in the stem and fruit of pineapples — can help suppress coughs as well as loosen the mucus in your throat. To enjoy the most benefits of pineapple and bromelain, eat a slice of pineapple or drink 3.5 ounces of fresh pineapple juice three times a day.
There are also claims that it can help relieve sinusitis and allergy-based sinus issues, which can contribute to coughs and mucus. However, there is insufficient evidence to support this. It’s also sometimes used to treat inflammation and swelling.
Bromelain supplements should not be taken by children or adults who take blood thinners. Also, be careful using bromelain if you are also on antibiotics such as amoxicillin, as it can increase the absorption of the antibiotic. Always speak to your doctor before taking new or unfamiliar supplements.
Thyme
Thyme is used by some for respiratory illnesses. One study suggests that the essence extracted from thyme leaves mixed with ivy can help relieve coughing as well as short-term bronchitis. The leaves contain compounds called flavonoids that relax the throat muscles involved in coughing and lessen inflammation.
You can make a thyme tea by steeping two teaspoons of crushed thyme leaves in a cup of boiling water for 10 minutes, then strain. Adding honey and lemon rounds out the flavor and adds extra soothing power as well.
Salt and water gargle
While the remedy may seem relatively simple, a salt and water gargle can help soothe a scratchy throat that causes you to cough. Mixing 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of salt with 8 ounces of warm water can help to relieve irritation.
Note that children under age 6 aren’t especially good at gargling. It’s best to try other remedies for this age group.
Steam
Steam loosens phlegm and mucous and helps improve your condition. You can add specific essential oils and take advantage of their anti-bacterial, anti-viral, and anti-inflammatory properties.
You need a bowl of water, a clean towel, a couple of drops of eucalyptus oil, and 3 drops of tea tree oil. Boil water in a heatproof bowl and add the essential oils to it. Now lean over the bowl and inhale the steam for 5-10 minutes thrice a day. Keep your head covered with a towel for better effects.
Ginger
Ginger is a natural analgesic, and that's why it's a common ingredient in cough syrups and lozenges. It helps soothe irritation and scratchiness caused by sore throat. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and leaves a cleansing effect on your respiratory system.
Cut a ginger into small pieces and crush them completely. Add it to water and start boiling. Once cooled off, you should take it at least thrice a day for dry cough relief.
Warm Milk and Honey
Honey has anti-inflammatory properties, whereas hot milk will help bring the mucus up from your chest and respiratory tract. The combination of both will serve as one of the best home remedies for cough.
Mix a teaspoon of honey in a glass of hot milk and drink it before going to bed. This will help you sleep better and make it easier to get relief from the coughing. Regular drinking will help treat throat irritation effectively.
