Cough is common problem to everyone. There are two primary types of coughs, dry and productive. A
productive cough is one in which you are coughing up phlegm or mucous-this is
not a cough that should be suppressed, as your body needs to rid itself of the
gunk that’s in your chest/lungs. While it shouldn’t be suppressed, some of
these remedies will address a productive cough by including an expectorant.
Honey for cough
Honey is a
rich demulcent, with a high viscosity and stickiness that does an incredible
job of coating and soothing those irritated mucous membranes. Thanks to an
enzyme added by bees when they harvest honey, it also has anti-bacterial
properties as well which may help shorten how long you have the cough if it is
due to bacterial illness. This is an excellent alternative remedy for both kids
and adults, but should never be given to children under the age of 2 years due
to the risk of botulism. Take 1 tablespoon of
honey 1-3 times daily as needed to control coughing.
Licorice Root Tea for cough
Licorice root is both an expectorant and demulcent, simultaneously
soothing your airways while loosening and thinning mucous, easing congestion.
It can also ease any inflammation that may be irritating your throat. Its main
constituent, glycyrrhizin, is responsible for most of its effects. 30-50 times
sweeter than sucrose, it inhibits an enzyme 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase.
This enzyme regulates access of glucocorticoid (a steroid hormone) to steroid
receptors, ultimately slowing the conversion of cortisol to cortisone. This
increases the effect of cortisol and reducing inflammation. If you are on
steroids, or have any problems with your kidneys, it is best to steer clear of
licorice root. Take 2 tablespoons of dried
licorice root 8 ounces of fresh
water.
Gargle Salt Water for cough
Salt also a popular remedy for sore throats, salt water can ease the
discomfort caused by a cough the same way it helps a sore throat-through
osmosis. When the concentration of salt is higher outside of the cells in your
mucous membranes, water flows out of the cells to balance everything out. When
water leaves the cells, swelling goes down, and discomfort is decreased. If you
have a cough that happens to come along with inflamed tissue, this is a good
route to take. It can also help dislodge any phlegm that’s hanging out and
allow you to expel it easily.





























