Some natural remedies may help to relieve a cough.
However, it is important to remember that the
People who want to use natural remedies to treat their cough should research sources and brands. They should also be aware that some herbs and supplements can interfere with medications, which may result in unwanted side effects.
A person should always consult a doctor before taking supplements.
A person should also see a doctor if:
People use a range of natural remedies to try to treat a persistent cough.
While they may help some people, it is important to note that some of the following remedies have limited evidence to support their use.
This means a person may or may not find that the remedies work for them.
1. Honey
According to research, honey may relieve a cough.
In a 2021 review of studies, researchers looked at the effect of using honey to treat coughs in upper respiratory infections.
The researchers found that honey was superior to usual care, both in suppressing the cough and in helping to prevent the need for antibiotics.
In a 2021 study, researchers compared honey to dextromethorphan, a common cough suppressant.
The researchers found that both honey and dextromethorphan worked to suppress coughs. They noted that honey scored slightly higher in one trial and on par with dextromethorphan in another trial.
A person can use this remedy by swallowing a spoonful of honey or adding it to a hot drink, such as an herbal tea.
2. Ginger
Ginger may ease a dry or asthmatic cough, as it has anti-inflammatory properties. It may also relieve nausea and pain.
Only a few older studies have looked at ginger’s effect on coughs. A study from 2015 examined 10 different natural products used in traditional Asian medicines, including ginger.
The researchers found that ginger, along with other remedies, including honey, has played a long-lasting role in traditional medicines.
While a long history of use can be an important implication, the researchers noted that their study may provide future researchers with a place to start when examining natural solutions to coughs.
People often add ginger to dishes or drink it in tea. They should be aware that, in some cases, ginger tea can cause stomach upset or heartburn.
3. Hot fluids
While current research is lacking, an older study from
However, people with additional symptoms of a cold or flu may benefit from warming up their beverages. The same study reports that hot beverages alleviate even more symptoms, including a sore throat, chills, and fatigue.
The symptom relief was immediate and remained for a continued period after finishing the hot beverage.
Hot beverages that may be comforting include:
- clear broths
- herbal teas
- decaffeinated black tea
- warm water
- warm fruit juices
4. Steam
A wet cough, which is one that produces mucus or phlegm, may improve with steam.
To try this method, a person should take a hot shower or bath and allow the bathroom to fill with steam. They should stay in this steam for a few minutes until symptoms subside. They can drink a glass of water afterward to cool down and prevent dehydration.
Alternatively, people can make a steam bowl. To do this, a person should:
- Fill a large bowl with hot water.
- Add herbs or essential oils, such as eucalyptus or rosemary. These may help relieve congestion.
- Lean over the bowl and place a towel over the head. This traps the steam so the person can breathe it in.
- Keep breathing in the steam for about 10–15 minutes.
A person may find steaming helpful when done one to two times per day.
While many believe steam will help with cough and other symptoms, not all evidence agrees. For example, a
5. Marshmallow root
Marshmallow root is an herb that has a long history of use as a treatment for coughs and sore throats.
The herb can ease irritation resulting from coughing because of its high mucilage content. Mucilage is a thick, gluey substance that coats the throat.
One older, small study found that an herbal cough syrup containing marshmallow root, along with thyme and ivy, effectively relieved coughs resulting from common colds and respiratory tract infections.
After 12 days of taking the syrup, 90% of the participants rated its effectiveness as good or very good.
In a
They found that the root extract has antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties and provided similar relief to diclofenac, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication. The study used in vitro testing.
Marshmallow root is also available as a dried herb or a bagged tea. A person should add hot water to either and then drink it immediately or allow it to cool first. The longer the marshmallow root steeps in the water, the more mucilage will be in the drink.
Side effects can include stomach upset, but it may be possible to counter this by drinking extra fluids.
Marshmallow root is available to purchase in health stores or online.
6. Saltwater gargle
People have used saltwater gargles for a long time to help alleviate sore throat and symptoms associated with the common cold. It may help loosen mucus and alleviate some pain.
However, it likely will not help reduce viral load.
In a
To make a saltwater gargle, a person can:
- Stir 1/2 teaspoon of salt into a cup of warm water until it dissolves.
- Allow the solution to cool slightly before using it to gargle.
- Let the mixture sit at the back of the throat for a few moments before spitting it out.
- Do this several times each day until the cough improves.
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