Coughing is a natural reflex that helps the body to get rid of irritants, allergens, and mucus from the respiratory tract.

However, a persistent cough that lasts for more than two weeks can be a sign of an underlying health condition such as allergies, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or even cancer. Over-the-counter cough medicines can provide temporary relief, but they may have side effects or interact with other medications. Fortunately, there are various natural remedies that can soothe a persistent cough without causing harmful effects.

Here are 5 natural remedies to get rid of a persistent cough.

Honey

Honey has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for coughs and sore throats. It has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe the throat and reduce coughing.

You can mix two teaspoons of honey with warm water or tea and drink it several times a day. You can also add honey to lemon juice or ginger tea for extra benefits. However, honey should not be given to children under the age of one due to the risk of botulism.

Thyme

Thyme is an herb that has been used in traditional medicine for respiratory conditions. It contains compounds that have antitussive, expectorant, and antimicrobial effects.

You can make thyme tea by steeping fresh or dried thyme in hot water for 10-15 minutes. You can also inhale thyme steam by boiling water with thyme leaves and breathing in the vapor while covering your head with a towel. Thyme oil can also be used topically on the chest or throat area to relieve coughing.

Ginger

Ginger is a root that has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It can help to reduce coughing by suppressing the cough reflex and calming the throat. You can make ginger tea by steeping fresh ginger slices in hot water for 10-15 minutes.

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You can also add honey or lemon juice for extra benefits. Ginger can also be used in cooking or taken as a supplement in capsule form. However, ginger should be avoided by people on blood-thinning medications or with gallstones.

Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus is an evergreen tree that is native to Australia. Its leaves contain compounds that have expectorant and decongestant properties.

You can inhale eucalyptus steam by boiling water with eucalyptus leaves and breathing in the vapor while covering your head with a towel. You can also use eucalyptus oil topically on the chest or throat area to relieve coughing. However, eucalyptus oil should not be ingested or applied directly to the skin without dilution.

Steam

Steam is a simple and effective way to soothe a persistent cough and loosen mucus in the respiratory tract.

You can take a hot shower or bath and inhale the steam, or you can fill a bowl with hot water and place a towel over your head while breathing in the steam. You can also add essential oils such as eucalyptus, peppermint, or lavender for extra benefits. However, steam should be used with caution by people with asthma or heart problems.

Conclusion

A persistent cough can be irritating and uncomfortable, but it can also be a sign of an underlying health condition.

Natural remedies such as honey, thyme, ginger, eucalyptus, and steam can help to soothe the throat, reduce coughing, and loosen mucus without causing harmful effects. However, if your cough persists for more than two weeks or is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, chest pain, or difficulty breathing, you should seek medical attention.