Home remedies for cough: natural ways to get better

Home remedies for cough: natural ways to get better

Home remedies for cough: natural ways to get better

Cough is a common symptom of many illnesses, including colds, bronchitis and allergies. It can be both dry and productive, with mucus being coughed up. For many people, coughing occurs primarily at night and can affect their sleep. Fortunately, there are a variety of home remedies that can help relieve the cough and speed recovery. This article introduces some natural ways to improve cough.

Causes of cough

Coughing can be caused by various factors. The most common include:

– Cold viruses: Colds are the most common cause of cough. Cough is often an early symptom of a cold and can last for several weeks.
– Flu: Influenza is a viral infection that can also cause coughing. The cough may last longer than with a cold.
– Bronchitis: In bronchitis, the bronchial lining becomes inflamed. This leads to a severe cough with sputum.
– Allergies: Allergic reactions to dust, pollen or animal hair can cause coughing.
– Smoking: Smoking cigarettes can lead to chronic cough.

Home remedies to relieve cough

1. Honey

Honey is one of the most effective home remedies for coughs. It has a soothing effect on the throat and relieves the irritation that causes the cough. Studies have shown that honey can be just as effective as some prescription cough medications. Simply mix a teaspoon of honey into a cup of warm tea or warm water and drink it slowly.

2. Inhalation with essential oils

Some essential oils, such as eucalyptus oil and peppermint oil, can help soothe the cough. Add a few drops of the oil to a bowl of hot water and inhale the steam. The essential oils have an expectorant effect and can open the respiratory tract.

3. Steam bath

A steam bath can also help relieve coughing, especially if you have a dry cough. Fill a bowl with hot water and place a towel over your head to trap the steam. Inhale the steam deeply to loosen mucus and relieve coughing.

4. Chicken soup

Chicken soup is not only a popular home remedy for colds, but can also help with coughs. The warm soup has a calming effect on the throat and respiratory tract. In addition, the ingredients it contains can strengthen the immune system and accelerate healing.

5. Gargle with salt water

Gargling with salt water can help relieve a cough, especially if it is caused by a sore throat. Dissolve a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and gargle several times a day. The salt water has an anti-inflammatory effect and can relieve pain in the throat.

Frequently asked questions about coughing

Ask:How long should you use home remedies for cough before seeing a doctor?

Answer:If the cough persists for more than a week or is accompanied by other symptoms such as high fever, shortness of breath or severe pain, a doctor should be consulted.

Ask:Are cough drops an effective cough treatment?

Answer:Cough drops can provide temporary relief by soothing the throat. However, they do not treat the cause of the cough. If you have a persistent cough, it is advisable to see a doctor.

Ask:What foods should be avoided when you have a cough?

Answer:Spicy, acidic and cold foods and drinks can irritate the cough and should be avoided. Also avoid sugar as it can increase inflammation.

Ask:Should you drink lots of fluids during a cold?

Answer:Yes, it is important to stay hydrated during a cold. Warm liquids such as tea or broth can soothe the throat and loosen mucus, relieving the cough.

Overall, there are many natural home remedies that can help treat coughs. Honey, essential oils, inhalation, chicken soup, and gargling with salt water are just a few of the ways to relieve coughs naturally. However, if you have a long-lasting cough or if the cough is accompanied by other symptoms, you should definitely see a doctor.