A cough can be annoying at best and debilitating at worst. It can be caused by allergies, a cold, the flu, smoking, or other medical conditions. Fortunately, there are several ways to calm a cough that don’t involve taking over-the-counter or prescription medications. Read on to learn more about natural, home remedies for calming a cough.
Honey
Honey has been used as a home remedy for centuries and has been proven to be effective in treating coughs. Honey has antimicrobial properties, which can help to reduce inflammation in the throat and chest, while also helping to coat and soothe the throat. To use honey to calm a cough, add 1 to 2 teaspoons of honey to a cup of warm water or herbal tea. You can also just take 1 teaspoon of honey directly. Honey is generally safe for adults, but should not be given to children under the age of 1.
Salt Water Gargle
Salt water gargling is an old home remedy for a cough that is still in use today. Adding salt to water helps thin mucus and reduce inflammation in the throat, providing some relief from a cough. To use this remedy, add one teaspoon of salt to a cup of warm water and stir until the salt has dissolved. Gargle the salt water for 30 seconds and then spit it out. Repeat this process several times per day to calm a cough.
Steam
Steam can help to reduce inflammation in the throat, loosen mucus, and soothe the throat, all of which can help to calm a cough. To use this remedy, take a hot shower or bath and breathe in the steam for 10 to 15 minutes. You can also boil a pot of water and inhale the steam for several minutes. Be sure to keep your face a safe distance from the pot so as to not burn yourself. Finally, you can use a humidifier or vaporizer in your bedroom to breathe in the steam during the night.
Herbal Teas
Herbal teas can help to soothe a cough and provide some relief. Teas made with peppermint, eucalyptus, ginger, or marshmallow root are all known to be effective and calming for a cough. You can buy herbal tea bags that are specifically designed to treat a cough, or you can make your own herbal tea at home. For example, add some freshly grated ginger and a few drops of lemon juice to a cup of hot water to make a soothing tea.
Garlic
Garlic has antibacterial properties and can help to reduce inflammation in the throat. To use garlic to calm a cough, mince a clove of garlic and add it to a glass of warm water. Let it steep for a few minutes before drinking. You can also add honey or lemon juice for added flavor. Be sure to drink the garlic water within an hour of making it for maximum effectiveness.
Onion
Onion is another home remedy for coughing that has been used for centuries. It contains several compounds that can help reduce inflammation in the throat and relieve a cough. To use onion to calm a cough, chop up an onion and add it to a pot of boiling water. Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes, then strain the liquid and let it cool. Drink the onion water a few times per day to relieve coughing.
Ginger
Ginger is well known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can be used to calm a cough. To use ginger, grate a few tablespoons of fresh ginger and add it to a pot of boiling water. Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes, then strain the liquid and let it cool. Drink the ginger tea a few times per day for relief from coughing.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a natural remedy that can help to calm a cough. It has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties which can help to reduce inflammation in the throat and chest. To use apple cider vinegar, mix 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with 1 tablespoon of honey and 1 cup of warm water. Drink this mixture several times per day for relief from coughing.
Conclusion
Coughing can be an annoying symptom that can often be hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several natural, home remedies that can help to calm a cough and provide relief from the symptoms. Honey, salt water gargling, steam, herbal teas, garlic, onion, ginger, and apple cider vinegar are all effective ways to calm a cough. Be sure to talk to your doctor if your cough does not improve or if you experience any other symptoms.
