A deep cough is usually a symptom of chest congestion, which means that stifling it won't do much to address the issue. The key is to help the cough be more productive so that you can get rid of the muck that's causing it. There are several different types of homeopathic remedies that loosen and thin chest mucus, making it easier to expel.
Horehound
Horehound is a bittersweet herb that actually triggers coughing and loosens the phlegm in your chest. Most health food stores sell horehound candy or lozenges that can be quite helpful if you have a deep cough. You can also make a hot horehound tea to sip. Steep 2 tsp. of dried horehound flowers in 8 oz. of hot water for about five minutes. Strain the flowers from the brew and drink it while it's still warm. If your throat is sore, add a touch of honey and lemon juice to the tea.
Cough Syrup
Homemade cough syrup can help a deep cough, particularly if the mixture contains onions. White onions' abrasive compounds trigger the coughing reflex, helping it to be more productive. To make a simple cough syrup, peel and chop six medium-sized white onions. Place the onions, along with 1/2 cup of honey, in the top of a double boiler and simmer over medium-low heat for about 2 hours. Strain the chunks of onion out of the syrup using a fine mesh sieve or a square of cheesecloth. Store the syrup in an airtight jar with a lid and take 1 tbsp. every 2 to 3 hours.
Marshmallow Tea
Gooey, soothing marshmallow tea coats your throat, making a deep cough less painful. It also significantly thins the mucus in your chest. Place 2 tsp. of dried marshmallow in a mug and add 8 oz. of boiling water. Allow the tea to steep for five to 10 minutes, then sip it while it's still hot. Repeat the treatment up to three times daily for best results.
Licorice
Licorice relaxes bronchial spasms, which makes it far easier to catch your breath when you're suffering from a constant deep cough. It also loosens and thins phlegm packed in your lungs. Many cough drops sold in natural foods stores are licorice-based. However, you can also use the licorice tincture sold at these stores to make a soothing hot beverage. Pour 8 oz. of boiling water into a mug and add about 45 drops of licorice tincture. Drink it immediately. The strong-tasting tea can be consumed as frequently as you need it, but not for more than a few weeks at a time. According to "The People's Pharmacy Guide to Home and Herbal Remedies," long-term use of licorice can raise your blood pressure.
References
- "1,801 Home Remedies;" Editors of Reader's Digest; 2004
- "The People's Pharmacy Guide to Home and Herbal Remedies;" Joe Graedon and Teresa Graedon; 2001
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