If you’re suffering from a cough, there are some natural solutions you can try for relief. They tend to be safer and won’t have the same side effects that some over-the-counter cough suppressants do.
One of the best natural treatments for a cough is drinking plenty of water. This will help thin mucus, boost your immunity, and soothe your throat.
Manuka Honey
When you suffer from a cough, cold or flu, it can be an unbearable experience. Unfortunately, oftentimes antibiotics will not provide relief and you must rely on over-the-counter cough drops or lozenges for relief.
Manuka Honey, however, is the superior option due to its powerful antimicrobial properties which help fight infections. It contains methylglyoxal which effectively eliminates many bacterial species.
Manuka honey not only soothes throat-related illnesses, but it also has antibacterial properties which can be beneficial when treating ulcers, gastric issues and wounds.
When searching for high-quality Manuka honey, look for one with an Ultraviolet Motility Factor value of 10+. This indicates it contains more than the minimum amount of methylglyoxal (MG), the key marker for its wellness and healing effects.
Black Pepper
Black pepper has long been used in Ayurvedic, Chinese and New England folk medicine to treat coughs. It stimulates circulation and gets mucus flowing freely, making it an effective chest decongesting remedy.
Black pepper has natural cough suppressant and antibiotic properties when combined with honey. To try this simple remedy, combine 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper with two tablespoons of honey in a cup of boiling water before steeping, covered, for 15 minutes.
Another way to take this remedy is by making pepper-honey tea. Simply boil a cup of water with two coarsely ground black pepper seeds and tea leaves, then stir in one tablespoon of honey. Drink it warm for optimal benefits!
Garlic
Garlic, with its distinctive aroma and potent medicinal properties, has long been used as a health food. Not only does it contain powerful antioxidants and antimicrobials, but garlic also supplies cardiovascular protection substances.
Garlic is an effective detoxifier with multiple bioactive selenium and sulfur compounds. Furthermore, garlic has blood thinner properties as it reduces cholesterol and triglyceride levels within the body.
Garlic contains organic sulfides, saponins, phenolic compounds and polysaccharides which have multiple biological functions such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory properties; cardiovascular protectiveness; anticancer properties; hepatoprotective qualities; digestive system protection; anti-diabetic effects; obesity reduction effects; neuroprotective activities and renal protection properties.
Thyme
Thyme is an herbal remedy that can be used to treat coughs. Its antibacterial, antifungal, and spasmolytic properties may help alleviate a dry, hacking cough while clearing away mucus from your lungs.
Acidophilus helps relieve coughs caused by acid reflux or asthma. It can be taken as a tea, used to season meat and vegetables, or added to soups and stews.
Adding a drop of thyme oil to a steam bath can help relax the lungs and enhance respiratory health. Inhale the warm steam, cover your head with a towel for 5-8 minutes, and allow the bronchial tubes to relax – this should reduce coughing spells.
If you are uncertain whether thyme is safe for you, consult your doctor first. Avoid taking this herb if you are pregnant, taking medicine to treat blood pressure or high cholesterol, or trying to prevent blood clots.