Coughing is a highly unwanted symptom of allergies, a cold or a number of other medical conditions. After you try to break up congestion in the chest by coughing, your chest can become sore, and your throat can become irritated. Fortunately, home remedies might help alleviate the urge to cough.
Steam
According to Health 911, inhaling the steam from a boiling pot of water or a vaporizer will soothe the throat and break up phlegm within the chest. To trap most of the steam, cover your head with a towel. This allows you to breathe in more of the steam. Adding eucalyptus to the water can help reduce the amount of mucus lining the throat. Another way to create steam is to run a hot shower. Make the water hot enough to create fog on the bathroom mirror, then get into the shower. If you don't want to take a hot shower, place a towel at the bottom of the bathroom door to trap the steam inside, then sit in the bathroom, breathing in the steam.
Warm Liquids
Drinking warm liquids often is an effective home remedy for coughing. These drinks help loosen the mucus and alleviate your cough, and they also keep you hydrated while you are ill. Examples include warm tea, water, coffee and chicken broth.
Herbal Teas
A variety of herbs might help you get rid of a cough. According to Home Remedies For You, drinking a cup of warm tea mixed with eucalyptus, thyme or peppermint can provide almost instant relief for cough symptoms.
Elevation
While you are sick, keeping your head elevated can help get rid of your cough. Use three or four pillows to prop yourself up when going to bed, or place blocks under the supports of the headboard to raise the head of the bed. Elevating your head allows mucus to drain from the throat while relieving the tickling feeling that makes you feel the need to cough.
Hot Packs
Applying hot packs to your chest can help loosen chest congestion and relieve the need to cough. Before applying a hot pack to your skin, wrap it in one or two towels to prevent burns or burning sensations. Using hot packs several times a day could help relieve the coughing symptoms.
