10 Ways to Get Rid of a Dry Cough Fast and Naturally
Dry cough and cold, although they’re not deadly, they’re definitely bothersome. That’s why a lot of people rely on taking cough suppressing medicines with hopes that it would alleviate the problem.
The truth is, there’s no need to take these medicines because there’s a lot of natural remedies readily available in your kitchen that could help you with dry cough. In fact, here’s a list of natural remedies on how to get rid of a dry cough.
1. Vapor Rubs
Based on research, those who are suffering from dry cough can find symptomatic relief and sleep better after applying vapor rubs on their chest. Although the exact reason why vapor rubs work is yet to be revealed. A lot of experts believe that the presence of camphor, menthol, and eucalyptus could probably the reason why it’s quite effective in treating dry cough.
2. Honey
Honey has been considered as the oldest, yet the most effective home remedy for dry cough. In fact, it’s also one of the most common components in cough syrup because of that reason. The analgesic properties present in honey eliminate the mucus and soothes the throat. Also, the reason why honey is quite effective for treating dry cough is because it’s packed with antimicrobial and antioxidant properties– both of which are effective in relieving sore throat.
The ideal way to take this remedy is by mixing honey with warm milk. Aside from relieving dry cough, it could also relieve chest pain.
3. Drinking Warm Liquids
Although dry cough isn’t life-threatening, it shouldn’t be neglected either because it could cause serious complications if left untreated. Drinking warm water or tea is the best way to soothe inflammation in the throat. Likewise, a warm soup can also be a solution.
4. Salt Water Gargles
The moment you feel soreness in your throat, make it a habit to gargle with salt diluted in warm water. Salt could drain the excess fluid coming from the inflamed areas in the throat, and that’s how it reduces the symptoms. As a matter of fact, according to experts, gargling salt can also help in removing irritants that thins the mucus and causes dry cough.
5. Sleeping with the Head Elevated
For some, dry cough is the result of mucus dripping from the back of the nose, into the throat. This problem tends to get worse at night, especially when the sleeping position is vulnerable to such dripping. As much as possible, the head should be elevated in order to reduce drainage. Also, a lot of people find this position quite helpful as it alleviates the occurrence of dry cough, promoting better sleep.
6. Turmeric
One of the main substance present in turmeric is curcumin. It’s an active agent that has antibacterial, anti-viral, and anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, it can effectively treat viral infections, such as a dry cough.
A teaspoon of turmeric powder can do wonders. Just mix it up with carom seeds and dissolve in boiling water. Allow it to boil until only half of the water remains. You can also add a teaspoon of honey in this solution and it should be taken at least three times a day. If you want, you can also add a teaspoon of turmeric powder in a glass of warm milk to experience instant relief.
You can also try combining turmeric powder with a teaspoon of honey. Take this natural remedy 3-4 times a day in order to alleviate dry cough. Aside from that, turmeric tea also offers the same benefits.
7. Steam
Steam effectively loosens mucus and phlegm, while improving your overall condition. Likewise, what’s good about this natural remedy is the fact that you can add your favorite essential oils and enjoy its anti-viral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Prepare a bowl of warm water, eucalyptus oil, 3 drops of tea tree oil, and a clean towel. Boil water and add the essential oils to it. Then, lean over the bowl and inhale the steam for about 5-10 minutes, three times a day if possible. To enjoy its optimum benefits, cover your head with a towel so that the steam wouldn’t go beyond it.
8. Ginger
For dry cough, one of the best ways to say goodbye to it is by cutting a fresh ginger, sprinkling some salt, and chewing on it for a couple of minutes. The problem is, not everyone enjoys the strong aromatic taste of ginger. In such cases, turning it into a tea is also ideal.
To prepare ginger tea, chop the ginger into fine pieces, and place in a casserole of boiling water. Allow the water to boil until the volume is reduced to half of the original quantity. Then, add a teaspoon of honey to improve the taste and enjoy more benefits. Drink your ginger tea while it’s warm, because it’s the best way to soothe dry cough.
9. Garlic
The antimicrobial and expectorant properties of garlic make it an effective home remedy to fight dry cough. In fact, according to research, it has been suggested that garlic could actually help in preventing colds and reduce their symptoms. Additionally, those who take garlic supplements for a couple of months have experienced an improvement in their condition. Their coughing isn’t as regular as it used to be.
Lightly crush a few cloves of garlic and sautee them in a teaspoon of ghee. Consume it while it’s still warm to experience instant relief.
10. Marshmallow Root
The anti-inflammatory properties of marshmallow root makes it an effective remedy for dry cough. Aside from that, it also protects the mucous membrane from further damage usually caused by coughing.
Marshmallow root can be turned into a tea. Simply steep 3 grams of leaves in a cup of hot water for about 10-12 minutes. After that, strain out the herb and drink your tea warm. Drinking 3 cups of this could provide instant relief for dry cough.
Additional Tips and Useful Reminders
- One of the best ways to avoid getting dry cough is by practicing good hygiene. Wash your hands regularly in order to prevent infection.
- Don’t drink or eat anything that’s too cold.
- Shouting or yelling is bad. It strains the voice, and could lead to dry cough.
- If you’re already suffering from a dry cough, try to get as much sleep as you can to help your body heal faster.
