8 Natural Cough Suppressants for Effective Relief

Coughing is a natural reflex that helps clear the airways of irritants and mucus. However, persistent or frequent coughing can be uncomfortable and disruptive. While over-the-counter cough medications are readily available, many people prefer natural remedies to soothe their coughs. Here are eight natural cough suppressants that can provide effective relief.

Honey as a Natural Cough Suppressant

Honey has a long history of being used as a natural remedy for coughs and sore throats. It offers several properties that make it effective in soothing and suppressing coughs:

1. Soothing and Coating Properties: Honey has a thick, viscous consistency that can help coat the throat, reducing irritation and the urge to cough. It forms a protective layer over the sensitive throat tissues, providing relief from coughing discomfort.

2. Antioxidant and Antibacterial Properties: Honey contains antioxidants and natural antibacterial compounds. These properties can help combat the underlying causes of coughs, such as infections or irritants, by reducing inflammation and fighting off bacteria.

3. Cough Reflex Suppression: Honey can suppress the cough reflex due to its soothing effect on the throat. This can be particularly helpful for nighttime coughing, allowing for better sleep.

4. Immune System Support: Honey contains vitamins and minerals that support the immune system, helping the body fight off infections that may be causing the cough.

How to Use Honey for Cough Relief:

To utilize honey as a cough suppressant, follow these steps:

Ingredients:

• 1-2 teaspoons of honey (preferably raw and organic)
• Warm water or herbal tea (optional)
• Lemon juice (optional)

Instructions:

1. Pure Honey: Simply take 1-2 teaspoons of honey by itself. You can take it straight from the spoon or mix it with a bit of warm water or herbal tea for added comfort.
2. Honey and Warm Water/Tea: Mix 1-2 teaspoons of honey with warm water or herbal tea. This concoction can be particularly soothing and can help hydrate your throat.
3. Honey and Lemon: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to your honey mixture for added vitamin C, flavor, and extra soothing properties.

Precautions:

• Never give honey to children under the age of 1: Honey may contain spores of a bacterium called Clostridium botulinum, which can cause a rare but serious illness known as infant botulism in infants under 1 year old.
• Limit intake: While honey is generally safe for adults and older children, excessive consumption should be avoided due to its high sugar content.
• Seek medical advice: If your cough persists or worsens, consult a healthcare professional. Honey can help alleviate symptoms, but it may not address the underlying cause of the cough.

Ginger as a Natural Cough Suppressant

Ginger, scientifically known as Zingiber officinale, is a versatile spice and herb that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its various health benefits, including its effectiveness as a cough suppressant. Here’s why ginger is considered a valuable natural remedy for coughs:

1. Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Ginger contains bioactive compounds, such as gingerol, that have potent anti-inflammatory effects. These compounds can help reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract, which is often the cause of coughing.

2. Antibacterial and Antiviral Properties: Ginger also has antibacterial and antiviral properties that can help combat infections that lead to coughing. It may inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria and viruses in the respiratory system.

3. Relaxation of Airways: Ginger’s natural compounds can help relax the muscles in the airways, making it easier to breathe and reducing the urge to cough.

4. Immune System Support: Ginger contains antioxidants, vitamins (particularly vitamin C), and minerals that support the immune system. A strong immune system can help the body fight off infections that may cause coughing.

How to Use Ginger for Cough Relief:

There are several ways to incorporate ginger into your diet for cough relief:

1. Ginger Tea:

• Slice or grate fresh ginger root (about 1-2 teaspoons).
• Boil water and pour it over the ginger.
• Allow it to steep for about 5-10 minutes.
• Optionally, add honey and lemon for extra flavor and cough-soothing benefits.
• Sip the ginger tea while it’s warm.

2. Ginger and Honey:

• Mix 1-2 teaspoons of grated ginger with a teaspoon of honey.
• Consume this mixture a few times a day for cough relief.

3. Ginger and Lemon:

• Mix fresh ginger juice or grated ginger with fresh lemon juice.
• Add a bit of honey if desired.
• Consume this mixture as needed throughout the day.

4. Ginger in Cooking:

• Incorporate fresh or dried ginger into your meals. It can add flavor to soups, stir-fries, and other dishes while providing its health benefits.

Precautions:

• While ginger is generally safe for most people, some individuals may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort if consumed in excessive amounts.
• If you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications, consult with a healthcare professional before using ginger as a remedy.
• Ginger supplements and concentrated forms of ginger, such as ginger essential oil, should be used with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

Thyme as a Natural Cough Suppressant

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) is a fragrant herb commonly used in cooking and traditional medicine. It has several properties that make it a valuable natural remedy for coughs:

1. Antimicrobial Properties: Thyme contains compounds like thymol, which have potent antimicrobial and antibacterial properties. These properties make thyme effective at combating the bacteria that can cause respiratory infections and contribute to coughing.

2. Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Thyme has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the throat and airways, providing relief from coughing.

3. Relaxation of Airways: Thyme can help relax the muscles of the respiratory tract, which can make it easier to breathe and reduce the urge to cough.

4. Mucolytic Properties: Thyme can act as a mucolytic, helping to break down and thin mucus in the respiratory tract. This is especially beneficial if your cough is productive, meaning you are coughing up phlegm.

How to Use Thyme for Cough Relief:

Here are some ways to use thyme for cough relief:

1. Thyme Tea:

• Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried thyme leaves in a cup of hot water for about 10 minutes.
• Strain and drink the tea.
• Optionally, add honey or lemon for extra flavor and cough-soothing benefits.

2. Thyme Steam Inhalation:

• Boil a pot of water.
• Add a handful of fresh thyme leaves or a few drops of thyme essential oil.
• Lean over the pot, cover your head with a towel, and inhale the steam for 5-10 minutes. Be cautious to avoid burns.

3. Thyme Honey Syrup:

• Combine 1-2 teaspoons of dried thyme with honey and let it sit for a few hours or overnight.
• Take a teaspoon of the thyme-infused honey as needed for cough relief.

Precautions:

• Thyme is generally considered safe when used in moderation as a culinary herb or in herbal preparations. However, some individuals may be allergic to thyme or experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort with excessive consumption.
• If you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before using thyme as a remedy.
• Thyme essential oil is highly concentrated and should be used with caution, diluted in a carrier oil, and not ingested without proper guidance.

Peppermint as a Natural Cough Suppressant

Peppermint (Mentha × piperita) is a popular herb known for its refreshing flavor and various health benefits. It is commonly used as a natural remedy for coughs and respiratory issues due to its several properties:

1. Menthol Content: Peppermint contains menthol, a compound with natural muscle relaxant properties. Menthol can help relax the muscles in the throat and airways, reducing the urge to cough.

2. Soothing Properties: Peppermint has a soothing and cooling effect on the throat, which can provide relief from irritation and discomfort associated with coughing.

3. Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Effects: Peppermint has antioxidant properties that can help combat inflammation and oxidative stress in the respiratory system. It also has mild antimicrobial effects that may help address the underlying causes of coughs, such as infections.

4. Thin Mucus: Peppermint can help thin and loosen mucus in the airways, making it easier to expel through coughing.

How to Use Peppermint for Cough Relief:

Here are some common ways to use peppermint for cough relief:

1. Peppermint Tea:

• Steep fresh or dried peppermint leaves in hot water for 5-10 minutes.
• Strain and drink the tea.
• Optionally, add honey for extra flavor and cough-soothing benefits.

2. Peppermint Steam Inhalation:

• Boil a pot of water.
• Add a handful of fresh peppermint leaves or a few drops of peppermint essential oil.
• Lean over the pot, cover your head with a towel, and inhale the steam for 5-10 minutes. Be cautious to avoid burns.

3. Peppermint Oil Inhalation:

• Place a few drops of peppermint essential oil on a tissue or in a bowl of hot water.
• Inhale the vapors to help relieve congestion and reduce coughing.

4. Peppermint Lozenges or Candies:

• Sucking on peppermint lozenges or candies can help soothe the throat and reduce coughing.

Precautions:

• While peppermint is generally considered safe when used in moderate amounts, excessive consumption of peppermint oil or strong peppermint teas may cause gastrointestinal discomfort in some individuals.
• Peppermint essential oil is highly concentrated and should be used with caution. It should be diluted in a carrier oil if used topically and should not be ingested without proper guidance.
• If you are pregnant, nursing, have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or take medications, consult with a healthcare professional before using peppermint as a remedy.

Lemon as a Natural Cough Suppressant

Lemon (Citrus limon) is a citrus fruit widely known for its high vitamin C content and refreshing flavor. It is a popular choice for natural cough relief due to its several beneficial properties:

1. Vitamin C: Lemons are a rich source of vitamin C, which is essential for a healthy immune system. A strong immune system can help the body fight off infections that lead to coughs.

2. Antioxidant Properties: Lemon juice contains antioxidants, including flavonoids, which can help reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract and soothe a sore throat.

3. Antibacterial Effects: The natural acidity of lemon juice can create an environment in the throat that is less hospitable to bacteria, potentially aiding in the prevention of infection-related coughs.

4. Mucus Thinning: Lemon juice can help thin and break down mucus in the respiratory tract, making it easier to expel through coughing.

5. Flavor Enhancement: Lemon’s pleasant taste can make cough remedies more palatable, encouraging better hydration and adherence to natural remedies.

How to Use Lemon for Cough Relief:

Here are some common ways to use lemon for cough relief:

1. Lemon and Honey: Combine fresh lemon juice with honey:

• Mix 1-2 tablespoons of lemon juice with 1-2 teaspoons of honey.
• Consume this mixture as needed for cough relief. The honey also provides its soothing properties.

2. Lemon Tea:

• Squeeze fresh lemon juice into a cup of hot water or herbal tea.
• Optionally, add honey for extra flavor and cough-soothing benefits.
• Drink this concoction throughout the day to stay hydrated and soothe your throat.

3. Lemon and Salt Gargle:

• Mix lemon juice and salt in warm water.
• Gargle with this solution to help relieve throat irritation.

Precautions:

• Lemon is generally safe for most people when consumed in moderation. However, excessive consumption may lead to dental enamel erosion due to its acidity. Rinsing your mouth with water after consuming lemon can help mitigate this risk.
• Some individuals may be sensitive to citrus fruits, so it’s essential to monitor your body’s response and adjust your intake accordingly.
• If you have citrus allergies or any underlying medical conditions, consult with a healthcare professional before using lemon as a remedy.

Marshmallow Root as a Natural Cough Suppressant

Marshmallow root, scientifically known as Althaea officinalis, has a long history of use in traditional medicine for its soothing and healing properties. It is often used to alleviate various respiratory symptoms, including coughs. Here’s why marshmallow root is considered a valuable natural cough suppressant:

1. Mucilage Content: Marshmallow root contains a high amount of mucilage, a gel-like substance that becomes slippery and viscous when mixed with water. This mucilage has a soothing and protective effect on irritated throat and respiratory tissues. It can help coat the throat, reducing irritation and the urge to cough.

2. Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Marshmallow root has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the throat and airways, providing relief from coughing and sore throat.

3. Lubrication: The mucilage in marshmallow root can also help lubricate the throat and airways, making it easier to swallow and reducing the friction that can trigger coughing.

4. Demulcent Properties: Marshmallow root acts as a demulcent, which means it forms a soothing film over the mucous membranes in the throat and respiratory tract, helping to relieve irritation.

5. Cough Reflex Suppression: By soothing and coating the throat, marshmallow root can help suppress the cough reflex, making it particularly useful for nighttime coughing.

How to Use Marshmallow Root for Cough Relief:

Marshmallow root can be prepared in various forms to alleviate cough symptoms:

1. Marshmallow Root Tea:

• Place 1-2 teaspoons of dried marshmallow root in a cup of hot water.
• Allow it to steep for 10-15 minutes.
• Strain and drink the tea. Optionally, add honey or lemon for extra flavor.

2. Marshmallow Root Syrup:

• You can make a marshmallow root syrup by simmering marshmallow root in water and adding sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
• Take a teaspoon of the syrup as needed for cough relief.

3. Lozenges or Supplements: Marshmallow root is available in the form of lozenges, capsules, or extracts, which can be taken according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Precautions:

• Marshmallow root is generally considered safe for most people when used as a natural remedy. However, it’s essential to follow recommended dosages and use it responsibly.
• If you are pregnant, nursing, have diabetes, or take medications, consult with a healthcare professional before using marshmallow root as a remedy.

Eucalyptus as a Natural Cough Suppressant

Eucalyptus is a diverse genus of flowering trees and shrubs native to Australia and nearby regions. It is well-known for its medicinal properties and is commonly used as a natural remedy for respiratory ailments, including coughs. Here’s why eucalyptus is considered a valuable natural cough suppressant:

1. Eucalyptol (Cineole) Content: Eucalyptus leaves contain a compound called eucalyptol (or cineole), which has several therapeutic properties. Eucalyptol is known for its ability to reduce coughing by acting as a bronchodilator, which helps open the airways, making it easier to breathe.

2. Mucus-Loosening Properties: Eucalyptus oil can help break down and thin mucus in the airways, making it easier to expel through coughing. This can be particularly helpful if you have a productive cough with excessive mucus.

3. Anti-Inflammatory and Antibacterial Effects: Eucalyptus has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can help address the underlying causes of coughs, such as infections and inflammation in the respiratory tract.

4. Soothing Vapor: Inhaling eucalyptus vapor can provide soothing relief to the throat and respiratory passages, reducing irritation and the urge to cough.

How to Use Eucalyptus for Cough Relief:

Here are some common ways to use eucalyptus for cough relief:

1. Eucalyptus Steam Inhalation:

• Boil a pot of water and remove it from the heat.
• Add a few drops of eucalyptus essential oil to the hot water.
• Lean over the pot, cover your head with a towel, and inhale the steam for about 5-10 minutes. Be cautious to avoid burns.

2. Eucalyptus Oil Chest Rub:

• Mix a few drops of eucalyptus essential oil with a carrier oil (such as coconut or olive oil).
• Gently massage the mixture onto your chest and upper back. The vapors can help relieve congestion and coughing.

3. Eucalyptus Tea:

• Some herbal teas include eucalyptus leaves as an ingredient. You can steep one of these teas and drink it to enjoy the potential benefits of eucalyptus.

4. Eucalyptus Lozenges or Inhalers: Commercially available eucalyptus lozenges or inhalers can provide cough relief and respiratory comfort. Follow the package instructions.

Precautions:

• Eucalyptus essential oil is highly concentrated and should be used with caution. It should be diluted in a carrier oil when applied topically and should not be ingested without proper guidance.
• Eucalyptus products should be used with care in children, as the high cineole content can be toxic when ingested or applied to the skin in concentrated form. Use child-safe eucalyptus preparations when appropriate.
• If you are pregnant, nursing, have asthma, or take medications, consult with a healthcare professional before using eucalyptus as a remedy.

Licorice Root as a Natural Cough Suppressant

Licorice root, scientifically known as Glycyrrhiza glabra, has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its various health benefits, including its potential to alleviate coughs and respiratory symptoms. Here’s why licorice root is considered a valuable natural cough suppressant:

1. Demulcent Properties: Licorice root contains a high amount of mucilage, a gel-like substance that becomes slippery and viscous when mixed with water. This mucilage has soothing and protective effects on irritated throat and respiratory tissues. It can help coat the throat, reduce irritation, and suppress the urge to cough.

2. Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Licorice root has anti-inflammatory properties due to its compounds, such as glycyrrhizin. These properties can help reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract and soothe a sore throat, making it easier to breathe and reducing coughing.

3. Cough Reflex Suppression: Licorice root’s demulcent and soothing properties can help suppress the cough reflex, particularly in cases of dry, irritating coughs. It can create a protective barrier in the throat, reducing the urge to cough.

4. Immune System Support: Licorice root may support the immune system due to its antioxidants and other bioactive compounds, helping the body fight off infections that lead to coughs.

How to Use Licorice Root for Cough Relief:

Licorice root can be prepared in various forms to alleviate cough symptoms:

1. Licorice Root Tea:

• Place 1-2 teaspoons of dried licorice root in a cup of hot water.
• Allow it to steep for about 10-15 minutes.
• Strain and drink the tea. Optionally, add honey or lemon for extra flavor.

2. Licorice Root Lozenges or Supplements:

• Licorice root is available in the form of lozenges, capsules, or extracts, which can be taken according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

3. Licorice Root Syrup:

• You can make a licorice root syrup by simmering licorice root in water and adding sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
• Take a teaspoon of the syrup as needed for cough relief.

Precautions:

• Licorice root is generally considered safe for most people when used as a natural remedy. However, excessive or prolonged consumption of licorice may lead to side effects such as high blood pressure, potassium imbalances, and other health issues. It’s important to use licorice root in moderation.
• If you are pregnant, nursing, have high blood pressure, heart conditions, diabetes, or take medications, consult with a healthcare professional before using licorice root as a remedy.
• Glycyrrhizin, a compound found in licorice root, can interact with certain medications and medical conditions. Ensure that it is safe for your specific situation.

Please note that while these natural cough suppressants may provide relief for many individuals, individual responses may vary, and it’s important to use these remedies responsibly and seek professional medical advice when necessary.

Sources:

1. “Honey: A Remedy Rediscovered.” American Family Physician. Link
2. “Ginger: An Overview.” National Center for Biotechnology Information. Link
3. “Efficacy and safety of honey in children with non-specific cough.” National Library of Medicine. Link
4. “Herbal medicine for cough: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.” National Library of Medicine. Link
5. “Effect of honey, dextromethorphan, and no treatment on nocturnal cough and sleep quality for coughing children and their parents.” National Library of Medicine. Link