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Published 11:52 IST, November 10th 2019

Simple, effective home remedies to cure symptoms of a cough

Cough is a reflex that plays a vital role in clearing airways and infections from the body. It helps to keep your throat clear from phlegm. Read more here.

Reported by: Abhilasha Agarwal
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Cough is a reflex that plays a vital role in clearing airways and infections from the body. It helps to keep your throat clear from phlegm. However, persistent coughing can be annoying. Sustained coughing can also be symptomatic of a number of conditions such as allergy, viral, or bacterial infections. Researchers say that sometimes a cough is not anything related to your lungs, but it can be caused by gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD). If you are unable to bear the pain caused due to severe coughing, know that it can be treated with a number of over-the-counter medicines. There are quite effective age-old home remedies for cough.

1.  Honey

Honey is a timeless remedy for a sore throat. According to the study by the US National Library of Medicine, honey can also relieve coughs more effectively than over-the-counter medicines that contain dextromethorphan (DM), a cough suppressant. Take 2 teaspoons of honey with herbal tea or warm water and lemon. The honey is known for soothing while lemon juice can help with congestion. Simply eating honey with a spoon can also help.

2.  Peppermint

Peppermint leaves are one of the most effective home remedies, not only for cough but also for various allergies and diseases. It is well-known for its healing properties. The menthol in peppermint soothes the throat and acts as a decongestant. It helps to break down mucus accumulated in the throat. You can benefit from drinking peppermint tea or by inhaling peppermint vapours from a steam bath.

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3.  Probiotics

Probiotics are micro-organisms that can provide a host of health benefits. While they do not relieve cough directly, they do help to maintain your gastrointestinal flora. Gastrointestinal flora is bacteria that live in your intestines. Fortified milk is an excellent source of Lactobacillus, a bacteria in dairy, which helps in cough reduction. However, you should be cautious of this bacteria as dairy may make phlegm thicker. You have to limit its consumption. Probiotics are also added to some types of yoghurt.

4.  Salt and water gargle

This is one of the most accessible and easy home remedies to cure a cough. Salt and warm water gargle can help soothe a scratchy throat. Mix 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of salt with 8 ounces of warm water and gargle. Note that children under age 6 are not so good at gargling. It is best to try other remedies for this age group.  

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Disclaimer: The content provided above is for information purpose. This is no way intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. 

Updated 14:08 IST, November 10th 2019

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