I. Introduction
It’s that time of the year when the common cold and flu are going around. One of the most common symptoms of these illnesses is a persistent cough that can be very uncomfortable. Coughing is your body’s way of getting rid of excess mucus or irritants in your throat, but it can be a nuisance when it persists. Cough medications can provide some relief, but they often come with side effects. Natural remedies can be an excellent alternative, as they help soothe your cough without any adverse effects. In this article, we will explore seven natural remedies to get rid of a cough fast.
II. Method 1: Honey and Lemon
Honey and lemon have been used for centuries to soothe coughs and sore throats. Honey has antimicrobial properties that fight against the bacteria causing the cough, while lemon is rich in Vitamin C that supports your immune system.
To make a honey and lemon cough syrup, mix fresh lemon juice with an equal amount of honey. Take one teaspoon of the syrup every few hours until your cough subsides. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture; it has capsaicin that reduces inflammation, thereby easing the coughing.
Precautions: Do not give honey to children under one year old, as they can develop infant botulism from the Clostridium bacteria spores found in raw honey.
III. Method 2: Ginger Tea
Ginger has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce inflammation and fight against the germs that cause cough. Ginger tea is an easy-to-make and effective remedy for a cough.
To make ginger tea, chop some fresh ginger (about one inch) and add it to two cups of boiling water. Simmer for ten minutes, strain, and add honey and lemon juice to taste. Drink it hot, two to three times a day, for relief from your cough.
Precautions: Do not consume ginger if you have gall bladder issues or are on medication for blood-thinning.
IV. Method 3: Eucalyptus Oil
The essential oil of eucalyptus has antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties that help loosen mucus, relieve cough, and clear your air passages. It is an effective cough suppressant that can help you breathe better.
Add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to a bowl of hot water and inhale the steam by draping a towel over your head. You can also add a few drops to a vaporizer or diffuser and breathe in the aromatherapy. This can also help you sleep better at night.
Precautions: Do not ingest eucalyptus oil orally. It can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea in some individuals. It can also interact with certain medications like diabetes drugs.
V. Method 4: Saltwater Gargle
Gargling with salt water has long been a home remedy for coughs and sore throats. It works by drawing out the excess mucus from your throat and reducing inflammation, relieving soreness and irritation.
To make a saltwater gargle, dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water, and stir well. Gargle with the mixture for around 30 seconds, then spit it out. Repeat this several times a day.
Precautions: Do not swallow the saltwater mixture as it can lead to dehydration or excess salt intake. Consult your doctor before opting for this method if you have high blood pressure or kidney issues.
VI. Method 5: Marshmallow Root Tea
Marshmallow root has anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe irritation and discomfort in the throat caused by coughing. It also forms a coating on the mucous membranes in your throat, which can help alleviate coughing.
To make marshmallow root tea, steep one tablespoon of the dried root (or one tea bag) in a cup of boiling water for five to ten minutes. Strain the tea and sweeten it with honey if you’d like. Drink it up to three times a day for relief from cough.
Precautions: Marshmallow root can slow down the absorption of other drugs taken orally, so it is better to take the tea two hours before taking any medication.
VII. Method 6: Licorice Root Tea
Licorice root is an herbal remedy that has anti-inflammatory properties to alleviate coughs and soothe throat irritation. It also helps to loosen mucus and phlegm that are causing cough.
To make licorice root tea, steep one teaspoon of dried licorice root in a cup of boiling water for five to ten minutes. Strain and drink the tea two to three times a day for relief from cough.
Precautions: Licorice root can cause side effects such as high blood pressure, fluid retention, and low potassium levels. Avoid consuming it for an extended period or consulting with your doctor if you have diabetes, liver disease, or heart problems.
VIII. Method 7: Turmeric Milk
Turmeric milk is a traditional remedy in Ayurveda to provide relief from coughs and colds. Turmeric contains curcumin, which has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation of the airways and relieve cough.
To make turmeric milk, mix half a teaspoon of turmeric powder with a glass of warm milk and sweeten it with honey or sugar. Drink it before going to bed for a good night’s sleep and to alleviate cough.
Precautions: Turmeric can cause allergic reactions, especially if taken in large quantities. Do not consume turmeric if you have gallbladder problems or are on medication for diabetes or blood clotting.
IX. Conclusion
Coughing can be a mild irritation or a severe symptom of underlying health problems. Natural remedies are excellent alternatives to treat coughs, as they do not have any adverse side effects. The remedies listed above –Honey and Lemon, Ginger Tea, Eucalyptus Oil, Saltwater Gargle, Marshmallow Root Tea, Licorice Root Tea, and Turmeric Milk – can provide relief from your cough and soothe your throat. However, it is essential to consult a doctor if your symptoms persist or worsen.
Try these natural remedies to find relief from your cough and get back to your healthy self.
