how to reduce cough naturally at home?

 The constant coughing spells are not only uncomfortable but also irritate your throat, making it difficult to swallow food. 

In addition to the seasonal variations, there are other reasons why you don't stop coughing, including allergens or pollutants. 

Although coughing helps you remove mucus, allergens, or pollutants from your airways, coughing too much can make you tired. Try these 10 remedies to  reduce cough naturally at home:

1. Honey

Honey is an ancient home remedy for cough and has even been scientifically proven to have health benefits. 

According to one study, honey is more effective in treating coughs than any other over-the-counter (OTC) medicine. Honey's antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe a sore throat. 

Honey is effective for all ages. However, never give it to a child under 1-year-old, as in some cases it can lead to poisoning in the newborn.

How To Mix 2 teaspoons of honey in herbal tea or warm water. Drink it twice daily for effect.

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2. Garlic

Many people don't eat garlic due to its pungent odor, but believe it to be one of the healthiest and best foods available. 

Garlic contains compounds with antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. Regular garlic intake can also lower blood pressure and boost the immune system.

Directions: Roast a chopped clove of garlic and mix with a teaspoon of honey, eat before bed You can also fry a little minced garlic and add it to your food. This will help reduce coughing and aid digestion.

3. Ginger

Ginger is a superfood that can help reduce the number of health ailments including nausea, colds, flu, and cough. 

Ginger's anti-inflammatory properties can relax membranes in the airways and reduce coughs. 

According to a 2013 study, gingerol, a chemical compound in ginger that can reduce irritation in the airways, can cause symptoms of asthma, including coughing.

Directions: Drinking warm ginger tea or mixing ginger juice with honey and black pepper powder is one of the effective cough remedies. 

Don't include too much ginger in your diet, as it can cause stomach upset and heartburn.

4. Pineapple

Pineapple contains an enzyme called bromelain, which is considered an effective cough remedy. 

Some studies show that this enzyme can help reduce coughs and loosen mucus in the throat. 

Pineapple helps reduce sinusitis and sinus problems caused by allergies, which often lead to coughing. Besides, pineapples are also sometimes used to treat inflammation and swelling.

How To: When you have a cough, eat a slice of pineapple or drink 250 ml of fresh pineapple juice twice a day. Make sure your fruits and juices are not cold as they can increase irritation.

5. Turmeric

Turmeric is a popular and effective spice in treating various health problems. Curcumin is known for its antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. 

Turmeric is also used in the preparation of Ayurvedic drugs, treating respiratory diseases.

How To: Add 1/4 teaspoon turmeric to a glass of warm milk and drink it before bed.

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6. Gargle with saltwater

Gargling with salt water is a home remedy that even doctors recommend to relieve sore throats. 

Saltwater can soothe an itchy throat and reduce mucus that builds up in the lungs and nasal passages. It also helps reduce swelling and irritation.

How to: Mix 1/4 teaspoon salt with 1 cup warm water and rinse your mouth several times a day for quick pain relief.

7. Fresh mint leaves

Fresh mint leaves contain a compound called peppermint essential oil, which can numb nerve ends in the throat that are irritated during coughing. Peppermint oil can also help destroy mucus and reduce congestion.

Directions: Drink peppermint tea 2-3 times a day to relieve cough. You can also use peppermint oil as aromatherapy.

8. Sauna

The easiest way to relieve cough is steam. Warm air adds moisture to the air, which can help reduce coughing and congestion caused by colds.

Instructions: You can use a humidifier or take a bowl of hot water, add essential oils, such as eucalyptus or rosemary. 

Cover the towel over your head and stay there for 5 minutes. Don't forget to drink a glass of water afterward to cool down and prevent dehydration.

9. Eucalyptus essential oil

Eucalyptus oil not only helps you get rid of coughing but also helps remove mucus in the lungs. 

Two important compounds -eucalyptol or cineole found in essential oils are also used in massage medications to relieve congested chest muscles. 

In addition, essential oils can help reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and reduce muscle tension.

How To: Mix a few drops of eucalyptus oil with some coconut or olive oil and apply them to your chest and throat. You can also try steaming with eucalyptus leaves.

10. Licorice root

Sipping warm tea made from licorice root is also considered to be an effective remedy for relieving throat irritation. 

Ayurvedic herbs contain over 300 different compounds, some of which have antiviral and antibacterial properties, which can help alleviate a sore throat problem.

How To: Dip 1 teaspoon of root powder in 250 ml of water and let it boil for 10 minutes. Pour into a cup and drink while still warm. 

However, prolonged use may not increase blood pressure and lead to irregular menstruation, fatigue, headache, fluid retention, and erectile dysfunction.

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