Some Recommended Natural Cough Remedies

By Christine Barnes


Coughs make a clear throat. It occurs when viral, fungal, and bacterial infections obstruct the nerve endings in the airways between the throat and the respiratory tract. The individual's tendency to cough is high when the body fights against these irritants.

Irregular coughs are caused by the lack of adequate air and oxygen, a condition known as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). A cough can be caused by acute bronchitis, pneumonia, asthma, allergies, and emphysema. Research has revealed that there are various natural cough remedies for patients who suffer from the condition.

Honey is one of the most recommended home remedies for the treatment of coughs. It has been regarded as a very good cough suppressant because of the presence of antibacterial content in the thick-liquid fluid. Its sweetness is as a result of the sugar from monosaccharide and disaccharides. Honey is made by bees. It is more effective as a cough remedy when mixed with lemon.

Peppermint is also regarded as a means to cure the ailment. The oil and flavor have a tremendous impact on the health of the individual. Apart from coughs, it has been said to relieve headaches. The botanical name for peppermint is Mentha piperita. It is the hybrid plant from the cross between the water mint and the spear mint. The stimulative and antibacterial qualities make it useful in toothpaste, candies, and other products sold in the health stores. People are advised to chew the leaves or prepare it as tea. It must also be noted that the peppermint contains methanol which works as a decongestant and clears the throat.

Thyme is also very useful in treating cough patients. The thymol in thyme fights against microorganisms in the mouth. These micro-organisms such as the bacteria, fungi, and viruses are responsible for tooth decay and unpleasant odor in the mouth. Thyme also reduces the risks of many respiratory problems such as bronchitis, and asthma. They are also rich in flavonoids which are antioxidants.

Ginger is also another cure for this ailment. Its stem has many chemical contents that will relieve the ailment. Conditions such as nausea and inflammation can be effectively treated with this herb. It can be eaten raw or treated to extract its oil which works wonders when mixed with lemon juice.

Garlic is an herb from the onion family. It is useful in keeping the throat and mucous membrane moist. It also contains supplements that boost the immune system and guards against respiratory infections such as bronchitis, pneumonia, and asthma. Apart from relieving coughs, it has also been proven very useful in reducing the chances of stomach upset and rectal cancer.

Fresh grapes are good expectorants. Expectorants are agents or ingredients that work by signaling the body to remove mucus from the lungs by dissolving chemical bonds in the secretions and increasing the urge to cough. These expectorants or mucolytic agents can be found in drugs such as potassium iodide, potassium citrate, and sodium citrate.




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