Natural Remedies for Cough and Cold Relief

Don't let cough and cold get you down! Try these 10 natural remedies for relief, including honey, ginger, and steam inhalation.

Cough and cold are common ailments that can make you feel miserable. While over-the-counter medications can provide relief, there are also natural remedies that can help ease your symptoms. From honey to ginger to steam inhalation, here are 10 natural remedies to try for cough and cold relief.

Honey and Lemon:

Honey and lemon are a classic combination for soothing a sore throat and cough. Honey has antibacterial properties and can help coat and soothe the throat, while lemon provides vitamin C and antioxidants. Mix a tablespoon of honey with the juice of half a lemon in a cup of warm water and drink it up to three times a day for relief. Note: Do not give honey to children under one year old.

One of the most popular natural remedies for cough is a mixture of honey and lemon. Honey has antibacterial properties and can soothe the throat, while lemon is high in vitamin C and can help boost the immune system. To make this remedy, mix one tablespoon of honey with the juice of half a lemon in a cup of warm water. Drink this mixture several times a day to help relieve cough symptoms.

Ginger Tea:

Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and can help relieve congestion and soothe a sore throat. To make ginger tea, peel and slice a small piece of fresh ginger and steep it in hot water for 5-10 minutes. Add honey and lemon for extra flavor and benefits. Drink up to three times a day for relief. Note: Consult with a doctor before consuming ginger if you are on blood thinners or have a bleeding disorder.

Ginger has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for cough and other respiratory issues. It has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe the throat and reduce coughing. To make ginger tea, simply slice a few pieces of fresh ginger and steep them in hot water for 10-15 minutes. You can also add honey and lemon for added benefits. Drink this tea several times a day to help relieve cough symptoms.

Garlic:

Garlic is a natural antibiotic and has been used for centuries to treat various ailments, including coughs and colds. It contains allicin, a compound that has antibacterial and antiviral properties. To use garlic for cough and cold relief, crush a few cloves and mix with honey. Consume this mixture daily until symptoms improve. You can also add garlic to your meals for added health benefits. Note: Consult with a doctor before consuming garlic if you are on blood thinners or have a bleeding disorder.

Eucalyptus Oil:

Eucalyptus oil is a popular natural remedy for cough and cold relief. It contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and decongestant properties. You can add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to a bowl of hot water and inhale the steam to help clear your sinuses and relieve congestion. You can also mix a few drops of eucalyptus oil with carrier oil, such as coconut oil, and apply it to your chest and throat for added relief. Note: Do not ingest eucalyptus oil and consult with a doctor before using it if you have asthma or other respiratory conditions.

Salt Water Gargle:

Salt water gargling is a simple and effective natural remedy for cough and cold relief. It can help soothe a sore throat and reduce inflammation. To make a salt water gargle, mix 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and stir until the salt dissolves. Gargle with the solution for 15-30 seconds, and then spit it out. Repeat several times a day as needed. Note: Do not swallow the salt water and consult with a doctor before using it if you have high blood pressure or other health conditions.

Turmeric Milk:

Turmeric milk, also known as golden milk, is a popular Ayurvedic remedy for cough and other respiratory issues. Turmeric contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract and soothe coughing. To make turmeric milk, heat a cup of milk in a saucepan and add a teaspoon of turmeric powder. You can also add honey or cinnamon for added flavor and benefits. Drink this before bedtime to help relieve cough symptoms and promote better sleep.

Thyme Tea:

Thyme tea is a natural remedy for cough that has been used for centuries. Thyme contains compounds that have antitussive and expectorant properties, which mean it, can help suppress coughing and loosen mucus in the respiratory tract. To make thyme tea, steep a handful of fresh thyme leaves in hot water for 10-15 minutes. You can add honey or lemon for added flavor and benefits. Drink this tea 2-3 times a day to help relieve cough symptoms.

Licorice Root Tea:

Licorice root tea is another natural remedy for cough that has been used for centuries. Licorice root contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, which mean it, can help reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract and loosen mucus. To make licorice root tea, steep a teaspoon of dried licorice root in hot water for 10-15 minutes. You can add honey or lemon for added flavor and benefits. Drink this tea 2-3 times a day to help relieve cough symptoms. Note: Licorice root should not be used by individuals with high blood pressure or those taking certain medications. Consult with a healthcare professional before using licorice root as a remedy for cough.