How Do I Choose the Best Herbal Cough Treatment?

Herbal cough remedies are very popular among those that have a history of chronic lung irritation. Many kinds of herbal cough treatment reduce inflammation and help expel mucus without the side effects of over-the-counter cough syrups. When choosing herbs to soothe coughing, there are several factors to consider. Some of these include the flavors that the patient enjoys, the patient’s age, the side effects of the herbs, and how the herbs will be taken.

Flavor is often an important factor in an herbal cough treatment. Those that enjoy the taste of black licorice might enjoy licorice root, hyssop, and anise. All of these herbs have an intensely sweet flavor and may be taken as teas or syrups. Their antiseptic properties help expel infections in the body and their oils help reduce inflammation and open sinuses. These herbs are also mild laxatives, so they should be taken under the direction of an herbalist and are generally reserved for adults rather than children.

Those that dislike the flavor of black licorice can turn to other types of herbal cough treatment. A strong tea of garlic and honey, for example, has been known to soothe coughing and help the patient expel mucus. Some even add onion juice to this mixture. The trick is to simmer raw garlic cloves and chopped onions together over low heat for several hours. The resulting liquid should be hot, aromatic, and slightly sweet. When mixed with honey and black tea, this mixture often has a very pleasant taste.

Honey, garlic and onion tea can be taken by both children and adults. It may also be taken more frequently than laxative herbs, like licorice. Children that dislike the taste of garlic may be given a mix of honey and onion juice instead. The mix may not work as quickly, but honey and onions can both soothe irritated throats and calm inflamed lungs.

Both of the above types of herbal cough treatment may be used during illness. Those suffering from asthma have a few different options. Peppermint and ginger are both anti-inflammatory herbs that may be inhaled or drunk as a tea. The extracts may be poured on a cloth or paper napkin and inhaled to help open the airways. When the airways are fully expanded, a cup of tea made from either herb may calm the nerves and help wash away the effects of the attack.

No herbal cough treatment should replace the care of a physician. If the coughing is chronic or comes with breathing problems or digestive issues, the patient should see a doctor immediately. Most doctors can also recommend dosage amounts and schedules for an herbal cough treatment, as well.