If a cough is troubling you, try an infusion of these well-known herbs
Just when the summer temperatures start to subside, the airwaves fill with ads for cough medications. "Fight it with this, get rid of it with that!" We're all familiar with these phrases. But, did you know that some herbs can combat this issue just as effectively as over-the-counter medicine? It's not magic, but the result of centuries of experiential learning.
7:36 PM EST, November 19, 2023
Coughing is a naturally occurring body mechanism triggered in response to health issues. Though common, particularly during autumn and winter, it should not be underestimated. Persistent coughing, in particular, might be a warning sign of a serious disease such as pneumonia or tuberculosis.
Hence, acknowledging the gravity of the situation that should prompt us to schedule a doctor's visit is of utmost importance. Equally significant is the knowledge of how to combat a cough with herbs. It turns out, the surrounding plants, possess remarkable therapeutic properties and can help us navigate through both dry and wet cough scenarios.
Herbs for cough relief
Firstly, it's important to understand what doctors emphasize about coughing. They categorize it into two kinds: dry cough and wet cough. Dry cough is described as "unproductive" - causing discomfort and potentially rupturing blood vessels. The latter, wet cough, actually aids in ridding the bronchial secretions of the body. Each type of cough requires a different set of medicinal herbs for treatment.
In the case of dry cough, herbs with soothing and expectorant properties are sought after. This is aptly provided by liquorice. This common European perennial not only exhibits strong expectorant properties but also soothes the throat. Other herbs like black elderberry (fruits and flowers), marshmallow flower, and thyme also function similarly. The latter notably contains essential oils with antibacterial and expectorant properties.
When it comes to treating a wet cough, our aim is to assist the body in expelling unwanted secretions by diluting them. In this regard, the well-known sage herb can work wonders. Tea made from it possesses anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. In addition, oregano, mullein, and eucalyptus prove exceptional in their duties.
Utilizing teas, syrups, infusions, or inhalations made from the aforementioned herbs is a time-tested remedy for both dry and wet coughs. Herbal products can alleviate annoying symptoms, support the respiratory system, and boost immunity. Therefore, it's worth exploring these options and discussing these treatments with your healthcare provider!
