Coughing is the way the body responds to irritants in the throat and respiratory tract. Any number of causes can trigger a dry cough, ranging from seasonal pollen or dust irritating the nasal passages, to more serious diseases such as bronchitis or pneumonia infecting the airways and lungs. Regardless of the cause of the cough, certain remedies may relieve cough symptoms and help speed healing. Some herbal remedies may cause side effects and caution is advised. A health practitioner should be consulted before starting any new treatment for a dry cough.
Step 1
Drink warm drinks like hot lemonade to relieve a dry cough. Lemon is high in potassium, vitamin C and antioxidants, according to The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook, and helps soothe the throat and loosen congestion in the airways. In addition, lemon may help fight colds and flu, speeding recovery and relieving a dry cough. Squeeze half a lemon into a cup of boiling water; allow it to cool slightly and add honey to sweeten.
Step 2
Gargle with warm salt water. The Pacific Lutheran University Health Center website suggests using warm salt water to relieve sore throat symptoms that may be causing concomitant coughing. By mixing 1 tsp. common table salt in an 8 oz. glass of warm water, a parent or other caregiver can prepare a quick, easy home remedy that may help a cough. Allow the salt to dissolve fully before gargling.
Step 3
Sip honey and apple cider vinegar to relieve a dry cough. Honey and other sweet syrups have been found to be helpful in suppressing the tickling in the throat that may be the cause of a dry cough, reports the Medical College of Wisconsin. The addition of apple cider vinegar to the mixture may help break up chest congestion and act as an anti-viral agent, according to The pH Miracle. There is no exact measurement for this remedy, just mix the the ingredients together in a small bowl to taste. Start with a tablespoon of honey and add the vinegar in 1/4 tsp. increments to taste. The honey should be the primary ingredient. Take small amounts on the tip of a spoon throughout the day as needed.
Step 4
Use homeopathic Lobelia inflata, known colloquially as Indian tobacco. This herb has been employed historically as an expectorant to relieve dry cough. It helps loosen phlegm and mucous in the lungs, allowing the individual to clear his airways, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center. As a plant in the wild Lobelia is toxic and can cause serious side effects. Only reliable preparations should be used under the supervision of a knowledgeable health practitioner.
Step 5
Take homeopathic Bryonia alba for a dry cough. This remedy is administered by homeopaths as a treatment for dry, painful coughing in both adults and children, according to Homeopathic Medicine at Home. It may be helpful for deep, loud coughs that cause the patient to grab her chest. The coughing is usually worse from any kind of movement of the chest wall or when the child moves around in general. Individuals needing this remedy for dry coughs are often in great pain and are thirsty for large quantities of cold water. Coughing may worsen at night, from going into a warm room, or after eating or drinking. Homeopathic Bryonia is available over-the counter and from online homeopathic pharmacies. A homeopathic practitioner should be consulted before using this remedy.
Tips and Warnings
- When using herbs and homeopathic remedies, it is best to choose one and give it a chance to relieve the symptoms before starting another. Some families like to have a homeopathic first aid kit on hand in the event of emergencies or when stores are not open. These are available from online homeopathic pharmacies.
- It is always advisable to consult with a health practitioner if coughing is prolonged. If the dry cough continues during treatment or worsens, the treatment should be stopped.
Things You'll Need
- Fresh lemons
- Water
- Glass
- Salt
- Honey
- Apple cider vinegar
- Herbal Lobelia inflata
- Homeopathic Bryonia alba
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Cough
- "The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook: Your Everyday Reference to the Best Herbs for Healing"; James Duke; 2002
- Medical College of Wisconsin: 200 Non-Opioid Anti-Tussives
- Pacific Lutheran University: Cold and Flu Treatment
- "Homeopathic Medicine at Home"; Maesimund B. Panos, M.D.;1980
