There’s nothing more annoying than a persistent cough that keeps you up at night and hampers your daily activities. Thankfully, there are several home remedies for cough that can provide relief without breaking the bank or requiring a trip to the doctor. In this article, we will explore 18 effective home remedies for cough that can help you soothe your throat and get back to feeling like yourself again.
Table of Contents
Home Remedies for Cough
1. Honey
Honey serves as a valuable home remedy for cough due to its unique properties. When consumed, its thick consistency coats the throat’s lining, providing relief from soreness or scratchiness commonly associated with coughing. This soothing effect makes honey a popular choice among home remedies for cough.
A 2020 systematic review and meta-analysis of 14 studies found that honey was a superior option for improving symptoms of upper respiratory infections, including coughing. This makes honey a valuable addition to the list of home remedies for cough.
Moreover, honey possesses anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties that can contribute to its effectiveness in relieving coughs. These properties help combat infections and boost the immune system, further supporting its reputation as one of the effective home remedies for cough.
Simply mix a tablespoon of honey with warm water or herbal tea, and consume it 2-3 times a day to relieve your cough.
2. Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a versatile home remedy for cough, offering various benefits to those dealing with cough-related symptoms. It contains antibacterial properties that help combat infection and soothe the throat, which can contribute to relieving coughs.
As one of the effective home remedies for cough, apple cider vinegar works by balancing the body’s pH levels, creating an environment that is less conducive to bacterial growth. This can assist in preventing and reducing infections that may cause or exacerbate coughing.
To utilize apple cider vinegar as a home remedy for cough, mix one tablespoon of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar with one tablespoon of honey in a glass of warm water. Drinking this mixture 2-3 times a day can help alleviate cough symptoms and provide soothing relief to the throat.
Mix one tablespoon of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar with one tablespoon of honey in a glass of warm water. Drink the mixture 2-3 times a day to help alleviate your cough.
Related article: 15 Uses For Apple Cider Vinegar
3. Turmeric milk
Turmeric milk, also known as “golden milk,” is an effective home remedy for cough due to the powerful properties of turmeric. This bright yellow spice is known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial effects, which can help alleviate cough symptoms and promote overall health.
As one of the beneficial home remedies for cough, turmeric milk works by reducing inflammation in the throat and airways, easing discomfort associated with coughing. The antioxidant properties of turmeric can also help strengthen the immune system, supporting the body’s natural ability to fight off infections that may cause or worsen coughs.
Mix a teaspoon of turmeric powder in a glass of warm milk and drink it once a day to help reduce coughing.
4. Steam inhalation
Steam inhalation is a widely recognized home remedy for cough, as it offers numerous benefits to those suffering from cough-related symptoms. The process involves inhaling warm, moist air, which helps loosen mucus and clear congestion in the respiratory system.
As one of the effective home remedies for cough, steam inhalation works by providing relief in several ways. First, the warm, moist air helps to hydrate and soothe irritated airways, reducing the cough reflex. Additionally, the inhalation of steam promotes mucus thinning and expulsion, making it easier to clear the airways and reduce coughing.
Utilizing steam inhalation as a home remedy for cough is a natural and non-invasive method to alleviate symptoms and provide comfort, making it a popular choice for those seeking relief from persistent coughing.
Boil water, pour it into a large bowl, and lean over the bowl with a towel draped over your head to trap the steam. Inhale deeply for 5-10 minutes to help alleviate your cough.
5. Garlic
Garlic is a potent home remedy for cough, thanks to its powerful antimicrobial and immune-boosting properties. It has been used for centuries to treat various ailments, including respiratory issues such as coughs and colds.
As one of the effective home remedies for cough, garlic works by combating infection and promoting a strong immune system. Its active compounds, such as allicin, exhibit antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal effects, which help fight off infections that cause or exacerbate coughing. Additionally, garlic aids in strengthening the immune system, further supporting the body’s ability to recover from illness.
Crush 2-3 cloves of fresh garlic and mix them with a tablespoon of honey. Consume the mixture once a day to help reduce coughing and strengthen your immune system.
6. Saltwater gargle
Saltwater gargle is an effective home remedy for cough, as it provides relief by targeting the throat’s discomfort and irritation. When you gargle with warm saltwater, it helps to remove mucus, reduce inflammation, and soothe the throat, which can alleviate coughing.
As one of the popular home remedies for cough, saltwater gargle works by creating a mildly hypertonic environment that draws out excess fluid from the inflamed throat tissues. This process reduces swelling and discomfort, which in turn helps to suppress the cough reflex.
Mix a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water, and gargle for 30 seconds before spitting it out. Repeat this process a few times a day to help soothe your throat.
7. Ginger
Ginger is a powerful home remedy for cough, known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and analgesic properties. These qualities make it an effective solution for soothing coughs and alleviating throat irritation.
As one of the reliable home remedies for cough, ginger works by reducing inflammation in the throat and airways, which in turn eases discomfort and suppresses the cough reflex. Its antioxidant properties also help support the immune system, enabling the body to combat infections that may cause or exacerbate coughs.
Add a teaspoon of ginger to a cup of boiling water, let it steep for 5 minutes, then strain and sip the warm tea to ease your cough.
8. Thyme
As one of the popular home remedies for cough, thyme works by relaxing the muscles of the trachea and bronchi, helping to reduce coughing spasms. Its antimicrobial properties assist in combating infections that may cause or worsen coughs, while the expectorant effect aids in loosening and expelling mucus from the respiratory tract.
To use thyme as a home remedy for cough, prepare a thyme tea by adding one teaspoon of dried thyme leaves to a cup of boiling water and allowing it to steep for about 10 minutes. Strain the tea and drink it 2-3 times a day for relief from cough symptoms. You can also add honey or lemon to enhance the flavor and increase the soothing effect on the throat.
9. Lemon
Lemon is an effective home remedy for cough, thanks to its high vitamin C content and natural antibacterial properties. These qualities make it a great choice for soothing coughs, alleviating throat irritation, and supporting overall immune system health.
As one of the popular home remedies for cough, lemon works by providing an immune system boost, helping the body fight off infections that may cause or worsen coughs. The natural antibacterial properties of lemon also contribute to combating throat infections, while its acidity helps to break down mucus, making it easier to clear the airways.
To use lemon as a home remedy for cough, prepare a lemon and honey mixture by combining the juice of half a lemon with one tablespoon of honey. Consuming this mixture 2-3 times a day can help alleviate cough symptoms and provide relief. You can also add lemon to warm water or tea for a soothing drink that helps relieve coughs and soothes the throat.
10. Peppermint tea
Peppermint tea is a go-to home remedy for cough, offering a myriad of benefits for individuals struggling with cough-related symptoms. The menthol present in peppermint acts as a natural decongestant, helping to open up airways and provide relief from coughing.
As an effective home remedy for cough, peppermint tea has a soothing effect on the throat, helping to alleviate irritation and reduce coughing. The menthol component also provides a cooling sensation, further easing the discomfort associated with persistent coughs.
To enjoy the benefits of peppermint tea as a home remedy for cough, simply steep a peppermint tea bag or fresh peppermint leaves in boiling water for about 5 minutes. Strain the tea and sip it slowly, allowing the menthol to work its magic in soothing your throat and reducing cough symptoms. Drinking peppermint tea 2-3 times a day can help provide relief and comfort.
11. Eucalyptus oil
properties. Rich in anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and expectorant qualities, eucalyptus oil is a powerful solution for soothing coughs and easing respiratory distress.
As a trusted home remedy for cough, eucalyptus oil serves to alleviate coughing by minimizing inflammation in the respiratory system and providing relief from spasms. The oil’s expectorant property also assists in loosening mucus, allowing it to be more easily cleared from the airways.
Add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to a bowl of hot water and inhale the steam for cough relief. Alternatively, you can apply a diluted eucalyptus oil blend to your chest, which can aid in opening up airways and relieving cough symptoms. Always ensure you dilute eucalyptus oil with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil or almond oil, before applying it to the skin.
12. Marshmallow root
Marshmallow root, a versatile home remedy for cough, offers numerous advantages for individuals grappling with cough-related symptoms. Packed with soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, marshmallow root can provide relief for coughs and ease discomfort in the respiratory system.
As a reliable home remedy for cough, marshmallow root helps alleviate coughing by coating the throat with a protective layer, reducing irritation and suppressing the cough reflex. Its anti-inflammatory qualities also contribute to easing inflammation in the respiratory tract.
Add a tablespoon of dried marshmallow root to a cup of boiling water, let it steep for 5 minutes, then strain and drink the tea to help soothe your throat.
13. Licorice root
As an esteemed home remedy for cough, licorice root serves to alleviate coughing by reducing inflammation in the throat and airways, while its soothing nature helps to ease irritation. Additionally, its antiviral properties assist in combatting infections that may cause or exacerbate coughing episodes.
Add a teaspoon of licorice root to a cup of boiling water, let it steep for 5 minutes, then strain and drink the tea to help alleviate your cough.
14. Probiotics
As a trusted home remedy for cough, probiotics work by supporting the immune system, which in turn helps the body to fight off infections that may cause or worsen coughs. By maintaining a balanced gut microbiome, probiotics can contribute to a stronger immune response, allowing for better defense against respiratory infections.
Consume probiotic-rich foods like yogurt or take probiotic supplements to help keep your immune system strong.
15. Pineapple juice
Pineapple juice is a delightful option among home remedies for cough, providing a range of benefits for those dealing with cough-related symptoms. Rich in the enzyme bromelain, which boasts anti-inflammatory and mucolytic properties, pineapple juice is a tasty solution for soothing coughs and improving respiratory health.
As a popular choice in home remedies for cough, pineapple juice works by helping to break down mucus, making it easier to clear from the airways. The anti-inflammatory properties of bromelain also contribute to reducing inflammation in the throat and respiratory tract, providing relief from cough symptoms.
Drink a glass of pineapple juice 2-3 times a day to help reduce coughing.
16. Black pepper and honey
Black pepper and honey is a powerful combination among home remedies for cough, offering a range of benefits for those dealing with cough-related symptoms. With black pepper’s expectorant properties and honey’s soothing effects, this duo is a potent solution for alleviating coughs and improving respiratory health.
Mix one teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper with one tablespoon of honey, and consume the mixture twice a day to help alleviate your cough.
17. Essential oil chest rub
Creating a chest rub with essential oils like eucalyptus, peppermint, and lavender can help to provide relief from coughing. These essential oils have antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe your airways. Mix a few drops of each essential oil with a carrier oil (such as coconut or almond oil), and gently rub the mixture onto your chest and throat before bedtime.
18. Hydration
Staying hydrated is essential when dealing with a cough. Drinking plenty of water, herbal teas, and clear broths can help thin mucus and make it easier to expel, making hydration a key home remedy for cough.
Dealing with a cough can be frustrating, but these 15 home remedies for cough can provide relief without the need for medication. From honey to hydration, there’s a home remedy for cough that can help soothe your throat and make you feel better. Remember, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional if your cough persists or worsens despite trying these home remedies for cough. However, in many cases, these natural remedies can help you find relief and get back to enjoying life without the constant annoyance of a nagging cough.
