In winters, dry cough is one of the things that always happen to everybody. The incessant coughing causes discomfort and also irritates your throat passage. Besides that, there are other reasons that may lead to this condition such as pollution or allergies. Even though coughing generally gets cured on its own after a few days, we either take over-the-counter medicines or try some home remedies for dry cough for some relief. From honey to saltwater gargle, here is the list of the best home remedies in your kitchen to get rid of dry cough.
1) Honey
Honey is an ancient home remedy for cough. The study suggests that honey is more effective as compared to any other drug in treating cough. Since it has antioxidants and is anti-inflammatory, it helps to soothe a sore throat. However, it should never be given to babies under 1 because it may lead to infant botulism. It is one of the best home remedies for dry cough.
Directions: Mix 2 teaspoons of honey in warm water or herbal tea. For an effective result, drink it twice daily.
2) Garlic
Garlic is one of the healthiest food items present in your pantry. Many do not consume garlic due to its pungent smell, but it contains antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory compounds that are quite useful in dry cough. Having garlic regularly can also boost the immune system. It is one of the best home remedies for dry cough at night.
Directions: Have a spoon of roasted chopped garlic with honey before going to bed. Besides that, you can also fry some chopped garlic in ghee and add it to your food for some relief from dry cough.
3) Ginger
From nausea and cold to flu and cough, Ginger is a superfood that can help to provide relief. The anti-inflammatory properties of this root can decrease coughing by relaxing membranes in the airways. As a result, the coughing will reduce. It is one of the best home remedies for dry cough at night.
Directions: One of the most effective remedies to treat coughing is having ginger juice or drinking warm ginger tea with honey and black pepper. However, avoid adding too much ginger because it may cause heartburn or stomach upset.
4) Pineapple
Pineapple contains an enzyme called bromelain. It is considered an effective remedy for cough. This enzyme can help to loosen the mucus in your throat and suppress coughs. Besides that, Pineapple helps relieve sinusitis and allergy-based sinus issues. It is one of the best home remedies to cure dry cough.
Directions: Eat a slice of pineapple or drink 250 ml of fresh pineapple juice when suffering from a cough. Make sure your fruit and juice are not cold.
5) Turmeric
In every Indian household, turmeric is a common spice that is effective in treating different health problems. It is known for its antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. For centuries, this yellow spice is used to prepare Ayurvedic medicine to treat respiratory disease. It is one of the best home remedies to cure dry cough.
Directions: In a glass of warm milk, add 1/4th teaspoon of turmeric and drink it before going to bed.
6) Saltwater Gargle
To ease a sore throat, gargling is a home remedy that even doctors recommend. Saltwater is osmotic which means it changes the direction of the fluid movement. It reduces the mucus build-up in the lungs and nasal passage and soothes the itchy throat. However, this remedy is not for younger children because they might end up swallowing alkaline water.
Directions: In 1 cup warm water, mix 1/4 teaspoon of salt and gargle with it multiple times a day.
7) Peppermint
Peppermint leaves contain a compound called menthol. It numbs the nerve endings that become irritated by coughing. Besides that, it can also help to break down mucus.
Directions: To reduce the problem of coughing, try peppermint tea 2-3 times a day. You can also use peppermint oil to rub on your neck and chest.
8) Steam
The warm air adds moisture to the air and may help ease coughing. That is why steam is one of the simplest remedies to ease coughing.
Directions: You can take a stream from a hot bowl of water or use a humidifier. Take a bowl of hot water, place a towel over the head and lean over the bowl. Inhale the vapors for 5-15 minutes. Also, never forget to drink a glass of water after taking steam.
9) Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus essential oil can help you get rid of the cough as well as remove the mucus from your lungs. In Eucalyptus essential oil, eucalyptol or cineole is found that is also used in over-the-counter vapor rub. The essential oil may also help to reduce inflammation.
Directions: With oil like coconut or olive oil, mix a few drops of eucalyptus oil and rub them onto the chest and throat.
10) Liquorice Root
Having warm tea made from Liquorice root is also an effective remedy to cure dry cough. The Ayurvedic herb contains more than 300 different compounds that contain antiviral and antimicrobial properties. That is why it is one of the best home remedies to cure dry cough.
Directions: In 250 ml of water, steep 1 teaspoon powdered root and let it boil for 10 minutes. Drink it warm after pouring it into a cup. Even though the roots are generally safe, do not use them for a long period of time as it may cause headaches, erectile dysfunction, water retention, menstrual irregularity, and fatigue
Disclaimer: These are some of the most used home remedies to cure dry cough. Some of them are used by people for ages. However, we are not experts and it is always better to consult a physician if you have a sensitive throat or have anything severe. Never delay in seeking advice from a professional because of something you have read on this website.
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