Natural Cough Remedy
Holistic Health Articles, By Symptoms

Cough is the body’s response to irritation or inflammation in the throat, larynx, bronchial tubes or the lungs. Cough is caused by various factors such as colds, bronchial infections, flu, smoking, sinus congestion and the natural reaction of the body when trying to get rid of foreign matter from the throat. Most people suffering from cough will resort to pharmaceutical medicines such as expectorants to help soothe the throat. But with more and more people looking for an alternative remedy, natural and organic medicines have become increasingly popular as remedy for cough. An advantage of natural cough remedies is that they have minimal or no side effects in many patients compared to non-natural cough remedies.

For treating cough, there are a number of natural and herbal therapies that can be used. Some of the more popular herbal remedies for cough include aloe vera, cayenne pepper, chamomile tea, garlic, grape juice, carrot juice, honey, lime juice, thyme, and ginger. These herbs are usually prepared as a drink or syrup which helps soothe and relax the lungs. For instant relief from the irritation caused by cough, patients can also resort to aromatherapy. This is done by inhaling steam to liquefy mucous and reduce irritation. Simply bend over steaming water and hold a towel over your head. You can also try some essential aromatherapy oils that help stimulate the lungs and expel phlegm.

Eucalyptus can do wonders to cough sufferers. Simply add ten to fifteen drops of eucalyptus oil to boiling water and inhale the steam. Eucalyptus is an excellent decongestant and expectorant. You can also apply a few drops of eucalyptus oil combined with carrier oil to your chest for added effect. Peppermint is also an effective herbal remedy for cough. You can dilute about 3 drops of peppermint oil in a teaspoon of carrier oil then apply it to the chest several times within the day.