9 Natural Solutions to Relieve Coughs

While a cough may seem harmless, it can sometimes indicate a more severe health issue. Discover the causes of coughing and explore straightforward home-based treatments to address it.

Silencing the Cough

A relentless cough, often loud and disruptive, can significantly interfere with daily life. Coughs are categorized by their duration. Short-term coughs may stem from cold air, irritating fumes, dust inhalation, or food entering the airways. On the other hand, prolonged coughing is usually linked to mucus and secretions caused by respiratory conditions like colds, flu, pneumonia, or tuberculosis. (Important: Persistent coughs should always be evaluated by a doctor, as they might signal serious conditions such as cancer.)

Coughs vary based on moisture levels; some are dry, often linked to a scratchy or irritated throat, while others are wet, characterized by the presence of thick mucus.

A Vital Protective Mechanism

Coughs occur when irritants like viruses, bacteria, dust, or pollen invade the respiratory tract, triggering a forceful reflex. This mechanism, designed to clear the airways, can eject foreign particles at speeds reaching up to 100 mph.

Identify your cough type to find targeted remedies. Some treatments focus on soothing dry throats, while others act as expectorants, aiding in the removal of mucus and irritants. Most home remedies address both types unless specified otherwise.

Straight from the Home Remedies Treasure Trove

Licorice is a delightful remedy for cough enthusiasts. Licorice root, a common ingredient in traditional remedies, is known for treating coughs and bronchial issues. It acts as both a flavor enhancer and a soothing agent for irritated throats, as well as an expectorant. For the best results, use real licorice or candies containing licorice mass. Simply slice 1 ounce of licorice sticks, steep in 1 quart of boiling water for 24 hours, and enjoy throughout the day with a touch of honey. If licorice is unavailable, horehound candy is an excellent alternative for cough relief.

Discover effective home remedies to ease cough symptoms on the following page.

Explore additional resources on cough treatments and remedies through the links below:

This content is for informational purposes only and does not provide medical advice. The Editors of Consumer Guide (R), Publications International, Ltd., the author, and the publisher are not responsible for any outcomes resulting from treatments, procedures, or actions taken based on this information. Always consult your physician or healthcare provider before starting any treatment.

Home Remedy Treatments for Coughs

Ease the discomfort of a cough and prevent it altogether with these simple home remedies. A small effort can yield significant relief.

Straight from the Home Remedies Pantry

Garlic. While garlic might not make you the most kissable person, it’s a powerhouse for cough relief. Packed with antibiotic and antiviral qualities, garlic also acts as an expectorant, helping to clear bacteria and mucus from your lungs.

To maximize garlic's cold and flu-fighting properties, experts recommend consuming it raw. However, eating 4 to 8 raw cloves daily can be challenging. A workaround is blending the cloves into yogurt and adding it to soup, incorporating garlic into pasta sauce at the last minute to preserve its potency, or sprinkling garlic slices over salads.

Garlic broth is another effective cough remedy and simple to make. Crush 1 to 3 garlic cloves, simmer in 2 quarts of water for an hour, strain, and sip slowly. Alternatively, add chopped garlic to chicken soup just before serving to maintain its raw benefits.

Honey. A staple in traditional Chinese medicine, honey is a natural expectorant that helps clear mucus. For a soothing drink, mix 1 tablespoon of honey into 1 cup of hot water. Add lemon juice for a tangy twist or a splash of brandy or whiskey before bed to promote sleep.

From the Home Remedies Kitchen

Ginger. Known for its antiviral properties, ginger pairs well with licorice and anise in this cough-relief tea. Combine 2 teaspoons of freshly chopped ginger, 2 teaspoons of aniseed, and 1 teaspoon of dried licorice root in 2 cups of boiling water. Steep for 10 minutes, strain, and sweeten with honey. Drink 1/2 cup every one to two hours, but limit intake to 3 cups daily.

Discover effective home remedies to ease cough symptoms on the following page.

Explore additional resources on cough treatments and remedies through the links below:

This content is for informational purposes only and does not provide medical advice. The Editors of Consumer Guide (R), Publications International, Ltd., the author, and the publisher are not responsible for any outcomes resulting from treatments, procedures, or actions taken based on this information. Always consult your physician or healthcare provider before starting any treatment.

More Home Remedies for Coughs

The following home remedies are simple to find and can alleviate some cough symptoms. Plus, they’ll add a delicious twist to your meals!

From the Home Remedies Spice Collection

Mustard seed. A pungent yet effective spice for wet coughs, mustard seed contains sulfur compounds that promote mucus flow. To activate its expectorant properties, crush 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds and soak them in warm water for 15 minutes. Consume in small doses of 1/4 cup throughout the day for relief.

Pepper. While pepper can be irritating, this quality makes it beneficial for coughs with thick mucus. It boosts circulation and mucus flow in the airways. Combine 1 teaspoon of black pepper with 1 tablespoon of honey in boiling water, steep for 10-15 minutes, stir, and sip.

Salt. A saltwater gargle is a straightforward remedy for coughs, though consistency is key. Mix 1/4 teaspoon of salt into 4 ounces of warm water, gargle, and repeat every one to two hours. The saltwater acts as an astringent, soothing throat irritation and loosening mucus.

Thyme. Commercial cough syrups often have an unpleasant medicinal taste, but this herbal alternative, made with thyme, peppermint, mullein, licorice, and honey, is both soothing and effective. Thyme and peppermint clear congestion and offer antimicrobial and antispasmodic benefits, while mullein and licorice calm inflammation and soothe irritated tissues.

To prepare the syrup, mix 2 teaspoons each of dried thyme, peppermint, mullein, and licorice root in 1 cup of boiling water. Steep for 30 minutes, strain, and add 1/2 cup of honey. Gently heat if needed to dissolve the honey. Store in a sealed container in the fridge for up to three months and take 1 teaspoon as needed.

From the Home Remedies Kitchen

Chicken soup. Grandma was right—chicken soup is a go-to remedy for coughs caused by colds. Whether homemade or canned, it soothes symptoms and may reduce inflammation. Scientists believe it contains compounds like cysteine, which thins mucus, and electrolytes that keep you hydrated. Homemade versions are preferable due to lower salt content. The steam also helps ease irritated airways, and it’s delicious to boot.

Steam. Steam inhalation is a simple yet effective kitchen remedy for coughs. Boil water in a pot, add a few drops of eucalyptus oil or a scoop of Mentholatum or Vicks VapoRub for added decongestant benefits. Drape a towel over your head, lean over the pot, and inhale the steam for 10-15 minutes. Be cautious not to get too close to avoid burns.

Explore additional resources on cough treatments and remedies through the links below:

David J. Hufford, Ph.D., serves as a university professor and chairs the Medical Humanities Department at Pennsylvania State University's College of Medicine. He also holds professorships in Neural and Behavioral Sciences and Family and Community Medicine. Dr. Hufford is an editorial board member for journals like Alternative Therapies in Health & Medicine and Explore.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not provide medical advice. The Editors of Consumer Guide (R), Publications International, Ltd., the author, and the publisher are not responsible for any outcomes resulting from treatments, procedures, or actions taken based on this information. Always consult your physician or healthcare provider before starting any treatment.