Coughing is perfectly normal. It helps you keep your throat clear from different irritants. What’s not normal is when your coughing runs for days. When this happens, this may be symptoms of other underlying health conditions like viral infections, allergies, or bacterial infections. There are also some instances when your cough is not related in any way to your lungs. GERD (gastroesophageal reflux diseases), for example, can cause your cough.
Treatments of cough brought about by allergies, sinus infections, or colds are easy since over-the-counter medicines are readily available. However, if you wish to avoid chemicals, there are different home remedies, such as natural cough syrup with honey, than can help you say goodbye to your constant coughing.
Probiotics
These are microorganisms that carry a lot of health benefits. Probiotic does not relieve coughs directly, but they are there to keep your gastrointestinal system (the bacteria living in your intestines) at bay.
This balance supports your body’s immune system functions. Studies show that a type of bacterium dairy called Lactobacillus can lessen the possibility of flu, colds, or allergen sensitives like pollen. One great source of Lactobacillus is fortified milk. But be cautious because daily can cause your phlegm to get thicker. Moderation is the key.
Honey
Mixing natural cough syrup with honey is the most time-honored solution for sore throats. In one study, honey helps relieve cough way better than OTC cough medicines containing dextromethorphan (DM), a type of cough suppressant.
You can try making your solution at home by mixing a tablespoon of honey to warm water, tea, or lemon. The lemon juice helps with the congestion, while honey deals with the soothing.
Peppermint
It has long been known that peppermint leaves have a handful of healing properties. The menthol content found in peppermint helps soothe your throat while serving as a decongestant to break down your mucus. When signs of cough are showing, try drinking peppermint tea. Or better yet, inhale the peppermint vapors from your steam bath. To create this bath, for every 150 ml of hot water, add four drops of peppermint oil. Place a towel over your head, making sure you catch the steam and take direct deep breaths above the water.
Water and Salt Gargle
This natural cough remedy is proven to soothe scratchy throats that cause cough. Mix half a teaspoon of salt with 8 ounces of water to relieve irritation. While this remedy is relatively easy to do, this is not advisable for children below six years old because they are not so good at gargling during this stage.
Thyme
Studies suggest that the essence you get from thyme leaves can help reduce coughing and short term-bronchitis. The leaves have compounds called flavonoids, said to help relax your throat muscles every time you cough. This can also help reduce inflammation. To make thyme tea, crush your thyme leaves and mix a tablespoon of that to a cup of boiling water. Steep the leaves for ten minutes, strain, and enjoy.
It’s never wrong to seek home remedies when you have coughing episodes. Whether you go for natural cough syrup with honey or other forms of home solutions, it is still best to seek immediate medical treatment if your cough is starting to affect your breathing.
