Dry cough home remedies: How to calm your cough

Dry cough home remedies: How to calm your cough

Dry cough home remedies: How to calm your cough

A persistent dry cough can be incredibly unpleasant and affect sleep and everyday life. Fortunately, there are several home remedies that can help calm the cough and provide relief. In this article we will introduce you to some of these proven dry cough home remedies.

Causes of dry cough

Before we get to the home remedies, it is important to understand what causes a dry cough in the first place. A dry cough usually occurs due to irritation or inflammation of the respiratory tract. This can have various causes, such as:

Allergies

Allergens such as pollen, animal hair or dust mites can cause irritation of the respiratory tract in some people, which in turn leads to a dry cough.

Infections

Coughing is often a symptom of respiratory infections, such as a cold or bronchitis.

Smoke

Smoking cigarettes can irritate the respiratory tract and cause a long-lasting cough.

pollution

Poor air quality or inhaling harmful chemicals can also cause a dry cough.

Dry cough home remedies

Inhale

Inhaling steam can help relieve the cough. You can put hot water in a bowl and drape a towel over your head to inhale the steam. Additionally, you can add essential oils such as mint or eucalyptus to enhance the effect.

Honey

Honey is often considered a natural cough suppressant. You can take a teaspoon of honey alone or add it to warm water or tea to calm the cough.

Warm liquids

Drinking warm liquids such as herbal teas, broths, or warm water can help soothe the cough and clear phlegm.

Ginger tea

Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and therefore can help relieve coughs. You can add fresh ginger to hot water and drink the tea several times a day.

Eucalyptus candies

Eucalyptus candies contain essential oils that can have a calming effect on the respiratory tract. Sucking eucalyptus candy can reduce the urge to cough.

Steam baths

A hot steam bath can help calm a cough by opening the airways. Fill a bowl with hot water and bend over the bowl, covering your head with a towel. Inhale the steam for a few minutes.

Salt water gargle

A salt water gargle can help with a dry cough by soothing the throat and helping to loosen mucus. Mix a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and gargle several times a day.

Frequently asked questions

1. How long does a dry cough usually last?

The duration of a dry cough can vary depending on the cause. However, it generally resolves within a few days to a few weeks.

2. When should you see a doctor?

It is advisable to seek medical attention if the cough lasts more than two weeks, is accompanied by persistent shortness of breath, causes bloody sputum, or is accompanied by other severe symptoms.

3. Can these home remedies be used on children?

Some of the home remedies mentioned can also be used on children. However, it is important to consult a doctor beforehand, especially for young children or if symptoms are severe.

Final thoughts

A dry cough can be very unpleasant, but with the help of these home remedies the cough can be calmed and alleviated. Use these home remedies regularly and consult a doctor if symptoms persist or are severe. Avoid smoking and maintain good air quality to prevent further respiratory irritation.