Herbs have been existence since time immemorial, and the discovery of its uses had shed a new light on human existence. Most people believe that they can never go wrong with herbs, especially when it is a choice between synthetically-made pharmaceutical products and herbal medicines. The fact that herbs are readily available, very accessible and downright affordable makes herbs the runaway choice. In order to further ensure accessibility, some people have started their herbal gardens right in their own backyard. At present, there are more than 10,000 herbs in the world, and each of these herbs plays a different role when it comes to providing you with good health. Remember that one herb has a varying function from another herb, and that there is no “one herb treats all” kind of thing.

A lot of conditions can benefit from herbs, from a simple skin irritation to headaches, acne, fatigue, diabetes, anxiety, depression, high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, insomnia, herpes, impotence, arthritis, acid reflux, respiratory disorders, bad breath, eczema, migraines, colds – the list can go on and on. Herbal remedies have provided relief from various ailments, and more and more people are attesting to this fact. This is the reason why most people have been using herbs as an alternative form of treatment. One of the most common uses of herbs is in the management of cough.

What is a Cough?

Contrary to popular belief, coughing is not a disease but it is actually one of our body’s defense mechanisms against invading pathogens, or foreign agents such as a virus. A cough should not be treated as an illness. It may be a symptom of an underlying condition and this prompts people to automatically associate the symptom with disease. Coughing is important because it expels unwanted particles out of the body. It forces you to push pathogens out and it will help you clear your throat and your respiratory system. What actually bothers us is the kind of cough that does not seem to stop. It can interfere with sleep, with our social lives, and it causes great discomfort. So understandably, most people would resort to buying over-the-counter cough medicines that would help stop the cough. These medications oftentimes cause one to feel drowsy and sleepy, and it hinders one from functioning properly at work, at school and at home.

Natural Remedies for Cough

Instead of buying expensive medicines over the counter, choose to go natural. These herbal remedies have been proven safe and effective in the treatment and management of cough – not to mention that they are inexpensive too. You may even be surprised to find out that some of these are found right inside your cupboard.

• Honey

  Honey has been all-time favorite of singers – and for good reason. They use honey incorporated in warm water or in tea to help relieve the discomfort caused by sore throats and coughing. However, according to MayoClinic.com, honey can also be used as a valuable cough suppressant, even on its own. A study conducted on young children diagnosed with upper respiratory tract infections revealed that 2 teaspoons of honey before bedtime helped reduce coughing at night and allowed the young children to sleep better. According to the MayoClinic report, honey appeared to be equally effective as dextromethorphan. But please do not give honey to children below one year old as this may cause botulism.

• Thyme

  The Natural Health Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine reports that children with whooping cough have been given thyme in the past in order to lessen their coughing spells. Until today, thyme remains to be an effective form of management and treatment for respiratory conditions with cough as a symptom. It helps strengthen the lungs of both children and adults. It also boosts the function of the immune system and helps in clearing chest and throat infections such as bronchitis. The thymol oil that is found in thyme is in fact used in common medicine preparations available in pharmacies nowadays. Drinking a hot tea with thyme can help quiet that nagging cough and soothe your throat too.

• Echinacea

  The roots of the Echinacea plant can be used either dried or fresh into making teas, or they can be squeezed and then prepared as a drink. Echinacea has caught the attention of the world because of its ability to fight illness and boost the function of the immune system. This wonder herb is very much capable of raising the body’s resistance against viral and bacterial infections. And it also helps promote speedy recover from coughing conditions like bronchitis. This is according to the Natural Health Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine. The herb is also called as “the herbalist’s herb”, and is commonly recommended at the first sign of a flu, cough or cold.

• Licorice

  Licorice has demulcent qualities. The herb is used to help soothe inflammation and enhance flavor. Also, licorice is thought to possess antitussive capabilities that are the same with codeine, except for the side effects. This capability helps suppress cough. However, the continued use of licorice is not recommended for people diagnosed with high blood pressure levels.

• Red clover

  Red clover is very common in the Northeastern part of the United States. It is considered to be very beneficial for those with whooping cough, especially children ages two and above. Red clover helps relieve the spasms in the bronchial walls and it also helps one expel mucus. Using its dried flower to make a tea is the most convenient form of cough management but a tincture may also be used. The demulcent and expectorant qualities of red clover make it an excellent choice in teas for whooping cough and bronchitis.

• Peppermint

  Peppermint has a natural agent called menthol which acts as a decongestant. In fact, it is found in many cough products found in the market today, such as over-the-counter vapor rubs and throat lozenges. It helps loosen congestion in the chest and promote phlegm expulsion. It also provides one with a cool, soothing feeling.

Sources
livestrong.com
henriettesherbal.com
herbs2000.com
livestrong.com