A persistent cough can
be relieved and cleared up with the help of these easy, natural solutions.
Depending on what's available and what suits you most, you can attempt one or a combination of them.
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| What is a Natural Cure for a Persistent Cough? |
What is a Natural Cure for a Persistent Cough?
1. Honey and Warm Water (or Tea)
Why it works: Honey soothes the throat and lessens
the desire to cough.
How to use:
- Add 1-2 teaspoons of raw honey to a cup of herbal tea (such as lemon ginger or chamomile) or warm (not boiling) water.
- Drink slowly, especially right before bed, to prevent coughing while you sleep.
2. Ginger Infusion
Why it works: Ginger helps relax airway muscles and
combat infection because of its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities.
How to use:
- Slice 1-2 inches of fresh ginger thinly.
- Simmer for 10 to 15 minutes in 2 cups of water.
- After straining, squeeze in some lemon juice and honey.
- Twice or three times a day
3. Turmeric “Golden” Milk
Why it works: Curcumin, the main ingredient in
turmeric, is a potent anti-inflammatory that helps relieve soreness in the
chest and neck.
How to use:
- Warm up a glass of milk, either plant-based or dairy.
- Add a pinch of black pepper (to improve absorption) and ½ teaspoon of turmeric powder and stir.
- If desired, sweeten with honey.
- Drink once every day.
4. Steam Inhalation
Why it works: Breathing becomes easier when warm,
humid air is inhaled because it helps break up mucus in the airways.
How to use:
- Pour boiling water into a heatproof bowl.
- Lean over the bowl, cover your head with a cloth, and take five to ten deep breaths.
- For further relief, you can add a few drops of essential peppermint or eucalyptus oil.
5. Salt‑Water Gargle
Why it works: Gargling with salt water helps remove
allergens and lessen throat inflammation.
How to use:
- In a glass of warm water, dissolve ½ teaspoon of salt.
- Repeat two to three times a day after gargling for 30 seconds and spitting out.
6. Licorice Root Tea
Why it works: As a demulcent and expectorant,
licorice root helps to coat the throat and break up mucus.
How to use:
- For five to ten minutes, steep one teaspoon of dried licorice root in a cup of boiling water.
- Drink after straining up to twice a day.
- (Note: If you have high blood pressure, do not use for an extended period of time.)
7. Marshmallow Root Syrup
Why it works: Mucous membranes are soothed by the
mucilage found in marshmallow root.
How to use:
- For ten minutes, simmer two tablespoons of dried marshmallow root in one cup of water.
- Strain and drink all day long
Tips for Best Results
Stay Hydrated: To keep mucus thin, drink lots of
water and herbal teas.
Rest Your Voice: Don't strain your throat or whisper.
Use a Humidifier: Using a humidifier can help lessen
coughing episodes at night.
When to See a Doctor?
See a doctor if your cough persists for more than three weeks and is accompanied by shortness of breath, chest pain, blood, or a high fever.
Sometimes, persistent coughs are an indication of an underlying illness that requires medical attention.
Read: What
is the Best Home Remedy for Atopic Dermatitis?