25 Natural Remedies To Get Rid Of Cough At Home
Hey there, lovely readers! Today, I we’ll look into a topic that’s all too familiar: the annoying and persistent cough. We’ve all been there, right? You’re trying to focus at work, enjoy a movie night, or get a good night’s sleep, but that relentless cough just won’t let you be. It’s like an uninvited guest overstaying its welcome. In this post, I’m excited to share with you 25 natural remedies to help you bid farewell to that nagging cough.
We’ll explore how to get rid of a cough in 5 minutes (yes, you read that right!), discover home-based solutions, and learn tricks to soothe your throat. So, if you’re tired of coughing your way through life, stick around because relief is just a scroll away!
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1. Honey and Lemon
Picture this: a warm cup of tea infused with honey and a splash of zesty lemon – it’s not just a comforting beverage but also a powerful elixir to calm that persistent cough. Honey’s natural sweetness coats the throat, while lemon’s vitamin C offers a soothing touch.
How to Get Rid of a Cough at home with Honey and Lemon:
To whip up this concoction, simply mix a tablespoon of honey with the juice of half a lemon in a cup of warm water. Sip this delightful blend, and let it work its magic. The honey will coat your throat, reducing irritation, while lemon’s antioxidants provide an extra immune boost.
Personal Touch:
I vividly remember a time when a nagging cough kept me up all night. A friend recommended the honey and lemon remedy, and it was a game-changer. Not only did it ease my cough, but it also added a touch of warmth to those restless nights. Give it a try, and you might find yourself welcoming this natural remedy into your daily routine.
2. Ginger Tea
This humble root has been cherished for centuries for its remarkable healing properties, especially in alleviating coughs and colds.
How to Get Rid of a Cough at home with Ginger Tea:
To brew this comforting concoction, start by slicing a few pieces of fresh ginger and placing them in a cup of hot water. Allow it to steep for a few minutes, and you’ll be greeted by the invigorating aroma of ginger tea. Sip it slowly, and feel the warmth and relief wash over you.
Ginger Tales:
I can’t stress enough how ginger tea has been my go-to remedy whenever a persistent cough comes knocking. The soothing warmth of ginger combined with the subtle sweetness of honey has never failed to provide relief. It’s like a warm hug for your throat.
3. Steam Inhalation
Steam inhalation is a time-tested remedy for soothing coughs and respiratory discomfort. It’s like a mini spa for your airways, offering instant relief from congestion and irritation.
How to Get Rid of a Cough at home with Steam Inhalation:
Start by boiling a pot of water and carefully transfer it to a heatproof bowl. Lean over the bowl, covering your head with a towel to create a little steam chamber. Breathe deeply, allowing the warm, moist air to infiltrate your airways.
Why It Works:
Steam inhalation works wonders by moisturizing your throat and reducing inflammation. It can help break down mucus and ease congestion, making it easier to breathe and cough less.
Safety First:
While steam inhalation is generally safe, be cautious to avoid burns. Maintain a comfortable distance from the hot water and remember not to rush the process. Take your time to inhale the soothing steam.
My Experience:
I’ve turned to steam inhalation countless times, especially during those pesky cold seasons. The relief it offers, both in terms of reduced coughing and improved breathing, is truly remarkable. Plus, it’s incredibly relaxing, almost like a mini spa treatment.
4. Warm Saltwater Gargle
When the nagging cough just won’t quit, a warm saltwater gargle can be your go-to remedy. It’s like a gentle wave of relief washing over your throat, soothing irritation and reducing that persistent urge to cough.
How to Get Rid of a Cough at home with Warm Saltwater Gargle:
Start by mixing half a teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water. Stir until the salt dissolves completely. Take a sip, tilt your head back, and gargle for about 15-30 seconds before spitting it out. Repeat this a few times.
Why It Works:
The salt helps to reduce inflammation and break down mucus while also creating an environment less favorable for bacteria and viruses. This can provide immediate relief from a scratchy, ticklish throat.
Frequency Matters:
For best results, aim to gargle with warm saltwater every few hours or as needed. It’s safe, simple, and incredibly effective.
5. Herbal Teas
Peppermint Tea for Cooling Relief:
Peppermint tea not only offers a refreshing burst of flavor but also has menthol, which can help relax throat muscles and ease that persistent cough. Simply steep a peppermint tea bag in hot water, add honey for sweetness, and sip slowly.
Get rid of cough at home with Chamomile Tea:
Chamomile tea is a true herbal gem known for its calming properties. It can help reduce irritation in the throat, making it perfect for those nights when a cough keeps you up. Prepare a cup of chamomile tea, add a dash of lemon and honey for extra soothing power.
Thyme Tea for Natural Antioxidants:
Thyme tea is like nature’s little gift for your cough. It’s rich in antioxidants and can help soothe inflammation. Steep some dried thyme leaves in hot water, strain, and enjoy. You can sweeten it with honey if you like.
6. Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus oil, with its distinct aroma and powerful properties, is a trusted ally in the battle against coughs.
Get Rid Of Cough At Home With The Power of Eucalyptus:
Eucalyptus oil is renowned for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and decongestant qualities. These properties make it incredibly effective in easing coughs, especially those related to congestion.
Topical Application with Caution:
While eucalyptus oil can be applied topically, it’s crucial to dilute it with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil. Apply the diluted mixture to your chest for cough relief. However, please remember that eucalyptus oil is potent, and some individuals may be sensitive to it. Always perform a patch test first and use it sparingly.
Caution for Children and Pets:
Keep in mind that eucalyptus oil should be used with caution around children and pets. It’s best to consult with a healthcare professional before using it on or near them.
7. Honey and Cinnamon
The Sweet Healing of Honey:
Honey, often referred to as “liquid gold,” has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. It’s a natural cough suppressant, thanks to its soothing and anti-inflammatory qualities.
The Spice of Life – Cinnamon:
Cinnamon, known for its warm and comforting flavor, also offers numerous health benefits. It’s loaded with antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties that complement honey perfectly.
Creating the Cough-Busting Elixir:
To harness the power of this dynamic duo, simply mix a teaspoon of honey with a pinch of cinnamon in a warm glass of water. Stir well, and your natural cough remedy is ready to go.
The Potential Benefits:
This delightful concoction not only helps soothe your irritated throat but may also provide relief from persistent coughing. The honey coats your throat, reducing irritation, while cinnamon’s anti-inflammatory properties work their magic.
8. Marshmallow Root
Nature often provides us with surprising solutions to our everyday problems, and when it comes to soothing a bothersome cough, marshmallow root steps up as a hidden gem.
Discovering Marshmallow Root:
While it might not be a common household name, marshmallow root has been utilized for centuries for its remarkable healing properties. It’s not the same as the sugary marshmallows you might associate with s’mores; this comes from the marshmallow plant’s root.
Finding Marshmallow Root:
You can often find dried marshmallow root at health food stores, herbal shops, or online retailers. Ensure you purchase it from a reputable source to guarantee quality.
The Magic of Marshmallow Root:
Marshmallow root contains mucilage, a thick, gel-like substance that coats the throat and helps alleviate irritation. It can provide relief from that persistent tickle that triggers coughing fits.
9. Turmeric Milk for Cough Relief:
Turmeric, that vibrant and earthy spice found in many kitchens, holds a special place in the world of natural remedies. Its active compound, curcumin, is known for its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making turmeric a powerful ally in soothing that pesky cough.
The Wonders of Turmeric:
Turmeric has long been celebrated for its remarkable health benefits. Among its many qualities, it’s revered for its anti-inflammatory effects. These properties can help reduce the irritation and inflammation in your throat that often accompanies a persistent cough.
Whipping Up Turmeric Milk:
One delightful way to incorporate turmeric into your routine is by making turmeric milk, also known as “golden milk.” Begin by heating a cup of your favorite milk (dairy or plant-based) in a saucepan. As it warms, add a teaspoon of ground turmeric, a pinch of black pepper (which enhances the absorption of curcumin), and a touch of honey for sweetness. Stir well and let it simmer for a few minutes. Sip on this soothing elixir once or twice a day.
10. Hydration and Rest
Hydration: Your Inner Oasis:
Imagine your throat as a serene oasis in the middle of a desert. When you’re dealing with a cough, it can often feel parched and irritated. That’s where hydration comes in as your trusty watering hole. Drinking ample water and soothing herbal teas keeps your throat moist and helps thin mucus, making it easier to expel. Don’t forget the power of warm, comforting broths – chicken soup isn’t just a grandmother’s tale; it’s backed by science.
Rest: Your Body’s Repair Mode:
When you’re in the midst of battling a persistent cough, your body is working hard to heal and repair. That’s why sufficient rest is paramount. During slumber, your body devotes energy to recovery, and your immune system gets a boost. Aim for those seven to nine hours of restful sleep each night, and listen to your body’s cues for naps during the day.
11. Avoiding Irritants
Identifying the Culprits:
First and foremost, it’s essential to pinpoint the irritants that might be lurking in your environment. Smoking, whether firsthand or secondhand, is a notorious cough-aggravator. Exposure to air pollutants, allergens, or strong odors can also irritate your throat and make your cough linger.
Steer Clear for Swifter Recovery:
Once you’ve identified these irritants, the next step is to minimize your exposure. If smoking is a habit, explore resources and strategies to quit. Create a smoke-free zone in your home, and kindly ask those around you to support your efforts. When it comes to air quality, consider using air purifiers and keeping windows closed during high-pollution days.
Lifestyle Adjustments:
Making small but impactful lifestyle changes can go a long way. If allergens are a concern, keep your living space clean, and invest in allergy-proof bedding. When using household cleaning products, opt for gentle, non-irritating options. Lastly, consider using a humidifier to maintain optimal indoor humidity levels, as dry air can exacerbate coughing.
12. Natural Syrups and Herbal Remedies
Crafting Nature’s Syrups:
When it comes to making your cough syrup, nature provides an array of ingredients known for their soothing properties. Honey, often referred to as liquid gold, takes center stage in many homemade syrups. Its antibacterial and throat-coating qualities make it an excellent base. Combine it with herbs like thyme, sage, or marshmallow root, each known for their cough-suppressing or anti-inflammatory properties. By simmering these ingredients together, you’ll create a natural syrup that’s both effective and delicious.
Recipes to Soothe Your Cough:
To help you get started, we’ve compiled a selection of simple yet potent cough syrup recipes. Whether it’s the classic honey and thyme syrup or a soothing sage and marshmallow root blend, you’ll find these recipes easy to follow. We’ll also provide guidance on proper dosages, ensuring you get the right relief without overdoing it.
The Natural Advantage:
One of the significant advantages of these homemade syrups and herbal remedies is that they contain no artificial additives or chemicals. You know precisely what you’re putting into your body – pure, natural goodness. This can be especially appealing if you prefer to steer clear of commercial cough syrups with their sometimes long list of ingredients.
13. The Role of Nutrition
A well-balanced diet isn’t just about satisfying your taste buds; it’s about providing your body with the tools it needs to heal.
The Immune Boost:
When you’re battling a cough, your immune system becomes your best ally. A diet rich in essential nutrients can help strengthen your body’s defenses. We’ll explore the foods and nutrients that can give your immune system that extra boost it craves. Think vitamin C-rich citrus fruits, zinc-packed nuts, and probiotic-rich yogurt – all superheroes in the world of nutrition.
Foods That Soothe:
Certain foods possess natural properties that can help soothe a sore throat and ease coughing. Honey, not only a sweet treat but also an antimicrobial wonder, can provide relief when stirred into a warm cup of tea. Ginger, with its anti-inflammatory qualities, can be a comforting addition to your meals. We’ll guide you through incorporating these soothing foods into your diet to promote recovery.
Get rid of Cough At Home By Staying Hydrated:
Don’t forget the importance of staying hydrated, especially when a persistent cough threatens to dry you out. Adequate water intake helps maintain mucus production, which, in turn, can ease coughing. We’ll offer tips on keeping your hydration levels up and share creative ways to enjoy fluids, like herbal teas and infused water.
Smart Choices, Faster Healing:
A cough can be taxing on your body, but your dietary choices can make a significant difference in how quickly you recover. By selecting foods and drinks that support your immune system and soothe your throat, you’re taking an active role in your healing process.
14. Essential Oils
Harnessing the Aromas:
Essential oils are more than just lovely scents; they hold therapeutic properties that can alleviate cough symptoms. Lavender, known for its calming aroma, can help you relax and sleep better when you’re battling a persistent cough. Peppermint’s refreshing scent can open up your airways, making breathing easier. Tea tree oil, with its antiseptic properties, can aid in combating the underlying causes of your cough.
15. DIY Chest Rubs
The Warming Sensation:
One of the remarkable benefits of chest rubs is the warming sensation they provide. When applied gently to your chest and throat, these balms can help relieve congestion, ease breathing, and provide a soothing touch.
16. Breathing Exercise
Get Rid Of Cough At Home With The Art of Breath:
Breathing exercises are a hidden gem when it comes to managing a cough. They tap into the innate healing capacity of your body, helping you find comfort and calm during those persistent coughing spells. Breathing exercises offer more than just immediate relief from coughing; they can also enhance your overall well-being.
17. Avoiding Cold Foods and Drinks
Say No to Cold:
When you’re dealing with a persistent cough, it’s crucial to give your throat and respiratory system the TLC they deserve. We’ll recommend avoiding cold foods and beverages during this time, explaining how this simple change can have a big impact on your comfort.
18. Honey and Turmeric Paste
The Golden Blend:
Honey and turmeric are celebrated for their healing properties, and when combined, they create a potent remedy for cough relief. While this paste is a fantastic solution for coughing, it also offers a range of other health benefits.
19. Homemade Cough Drops
Get Rid Of Cough At Home With Cough Drops:
Homemade cough drops offer a comforting and natural way to soothe a scratchy throat and alleviate coughing.
To make these DIY cough drops, you’ll need ingredients like
–Honey,
–Ginger, and
–Lemon juice.
Start by heating a mixture of honey and ginger until it thickens, then stir in lemon juice. Once it reaches a candy-like consistency, drop spoonfuls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and allow them to cool and harden. These homemade cough drops not only taste great but also provide the soothing relief you need.
20. Elderberry Syrup
How To Get Rid Of Cough At Home With Elderberry syrup
Elderberry syrup has long been hailed as a potent natural remedy for combating coughs and colds. Making your own elderberry syrup at home is surprisingly easy and allows you to harness the full power of this herbal elixir.
To get started, you’ll need
–Dried elderberries,
–Water, and
–Honey,
along with optional spices like cinnamon and ginger for extra flavor and immune-boosting benefits.
Begin by simmering one cup of dried elderberries in four cups of water, along with any chosen spices, for about 45 minutes. Once the liquid has reduced by half, strain the mixture into a bowl and let it cool. Once it reaches room temperature, add one cup of honey and stir until fully incorporated.
Transfer your homemade elderberry syrup into a glass jar or bottle and store it in the refrigerator. It’s recommended to take one to two tablespoons daily for adults and one teaspoon for children as a preventive measure during the cold and flu season.
When a cough strikes, increase the dosage to help soothe and shorten its duration. Elderberry syrup is not only delicious but also a natural and effective way to combat coughs and boost your immune system.
21. Peppermint Tea
The Healing Power of Peppermint:
Peppermint tea isn’t just a delightful beverage; it’s also a fantastic natural remedy for alleviating cough and soothing a sore throat. Making peppermint tea at home is incredibly easy. Start by bringing a cup of water to a boil.
Once the water reaches a rolling boil, pour it over a peppermint tea bag or a handful of fresh peppermint leaves in a teapot or cup. Allow the tea to steep for about 5-7 minutes, or until it reaches your desired strength.
You can sweeten it with honey or add a slice of lemon for extra flavor and throat-soothing properties. Sip on this warm, aromatic tea throughout the day, especially when you feel that tickle or irritation in your throat. The menthol in peppermint has a calming effect, helping to reduce coughing and ease discomfort.
22. Licorice Root Tea
How To Get Rid Of Cough At Home With The Sweet Licorice Secret:
Licorice root tea is a soothing and natural remedy for alleviating coughs and soothing irritated throats. Making licorice root tea at home is simple and can provide much-needed relief from coughing and respiratory discomfort.
To create this comforting brew, you’ll need licorice root, water, and a touch of honey (optional). Begin by bringing about 2 cups of water to a gentle boil in a saucepan. Add around 1 to 2 tablespoons of dried licorice root to the boiling water, depending on your desired strength. Reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 10 to 15 minutes.
Strain the tea into a cup, and if you like, add a teaspoon of honey for a hint of sweetness. Sip on this warm and soothing licorice root tea whenever you need relief from coughing or a scratchy throat.
Licorice root has natural properties that help to reduce inflammation and soothe irritation in the throat and airways. It can be particularly effective for alleviating dry, unproductive coughs. However, it’s important to use licorice root in moderation, as excessive consumption can lead to side effects.
Pregnant or nursing individuals, those with high blood pressure, or anyone taking medication should consult a healthcare professional before using licorice root tea. With these considerations in mind, licorice root tea can be a valuable addition to your arsenal of natural remedies for cough relief.
23 Elevate Sleep Position
Get Rid Of Cough At Home By Elevating Your Sleep Position
Elevating your sleep position is a simple yet effective home remedy for getting rid of a nagging cough. When you sleep with your upper body slightly elevated, it can help reduce the irritation and discomfort associated with coughing, especially if you have a postnasal drip or acid reflux contributing to your cough.
To elevate your sleep position, you can use extra pillows to prop yourself up or invest in a wedge pillow designed for this purpose.
By doing so, you encourage mucus and stomach acid to stay where they belong, preventing them from trickling into your throat and triggering coughing fits during the night.
Elevating your upper body not only aids in cough relief but also promotes better sleep quality, ensuring you wake up feeling more refreshed and on your way to recovery. So, the next time a persistent cough keeps you up at night, consider adjusting your sleep position for some much-needed relief.
24. Honeydew Melon
How To Get Rid Of Cough At Home With The Magic of Honeydew:
Making a soothing and delicious honeydew melon remedy at home to relieve cough is both simple and refreshing. Start by selecting a ripe honeydew melon from your local market.
Slice the melon in half and scoop out the seeds. Then, cut the melon into small, bite-sized pieces or use a melon baller for a fancier presentation. Place the melon pieces into a blender and blend until you achieve a smooth, pureed consistency.
You can also add a touch of honey for an extra cough-soothing element and a hint of sweetness. Pour the honeydew melon puree into a glass and chill it in the refrigerator for a refreshing and cool treat.
25. Aloe Vera
Get Rid Of Cold At Home With Aloe Vera
First and foremost, aloe vera boasts anti-inflammatory and antibacterial qualities, making it a formidable opponent against the irritants causing your cough.
When ingested, either as a juice or by adding the gel to your favorite smoothie, it can help reduce inflammation in your airways and promote healing.
Additionally, aloe vera’s slippery texture forms a protective coating along your throat, alleviating discomfort and preventing further irritation. Its high water content also ensures you stay well-hydrated, a crucial aspect of cough relief.
So, whether you’re sipping on aloe vera juice or mixing the gel with honey for a soothing cough syrup, this natural remedy provides a gentle and effective way to tackle that persistent cough from the comfort of your home.