Coughing is a natural reflex of our body to clear the airways from irritants, mucus, or foreign substances. It is a vital defense mechanism that helps protect our lungs and air passages from harm. However, when cough becomes persistent and uncontrollable, it can be a sign of an underlying respiratory condition such as a cold, flu, or allergies. In these situations, finding relief from cough becomes essential to improve our overall health and well-being.
While over-the-counter medicines may provide temporary relief, they often come with side effects and can have adverse reactions when taken with other medications. This is where natural cough medicines come into the picture. These alternatives use ingredients derived from plants and herbs, making them safer and gentler on the body. In this blog post, we will review the top 10 natural cough medicines based on their effectiveness and safety.
Criteria for Selecting the Top 10
With numerous natural cough medicines available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. To simplify the process, we have selected the top 10 based on the following criteria:
- Ingredients: The chosen natural cough medicines should contain ingredients known for their medicinal properties and proven to be effective in treating cough.
- Safety: The products must be free from harmful chemicals and synthetic additives that can cause adverse reactions.
- Effectiveness: The effectiveness of the natural cough medicine should be backed by scientific evidence and positive customer reviews.
- Ease of Use: The product should be easy to administer and not require any special equipment or complex instructions.
- Price: While natural remedies can be more expensive than traditional medicines, we have chosen affordable options without compromising on quality.
Detailed Review of Each Natural Cough Medicine
1. Honey
Honey has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for cough and sore throat. Its high concentration of antioxidants and antimicrobial properties help reduce inflammation and soothe the throat. It also acts as a cough suppressant and can be taken alone or mixed with other ingredients.
Honey is most effective for treating cough caused by allergies or a cold. To use honey for cough relief, mix one tablespoon of raw honey with warm water or herbal tea and drink it two to three times a day. You can also add lemon or ginger for added benefits.
Pros | Cons
|
- Safe for children and pregnant women | – Not suitable for infants under 1 year old
- Affordable and readily available | – Can cause allergic reactions in some individuals
- Soothes the throat and reduces coughing | – May not be as effective for severe or chronic coughs
2. Ginger
Ginger is a popular spice known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It contains compounds that can help loosen mucus and relieve coughing. Ginger can be consumed in various forms, including fresh, dried, powdered, or in the form of ginger tea or syrup.
To make ginger tea, grate a small piece of fresh ginger root and steep it in hot water for 5-10 minutes. Add honey or lemon juice for added benefits. You can also make a ginger syrup by boiling grated ginger, honey, and water until it thickens. This syrup can be taken directly or mixed with warm water or tea.
Pros | Cons
|
- Relieves sore throat and coughing | – May cause heartburn or stomach upset in some individuals
- Boosts the immune system | – Not suitable for people taking blood-thinning medications
- Has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties | – May interact with certain medications and supplements
3. Thyme
Thyme is an aromatic herb that has been traditionally used to treat respiratory conditions such as cough and bronchitis. It contains compounds called flavonoids and thymol, which have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Thyme can be taken in the form of tea or as an essential oil.
To make thyme tea, steep 2 teaspoons of dried thyme leaves in hot water for 10 minutes. Strain and drink it up to three times a day. You can also diffuse thyme essential oil or rub it on your chest after diluting it with a carrier oil such as coconut oil.
Pros | Cons
|
- Effective in relieving cough and congestion | – May cause skin irritation or allergic reactions when applied topically
- Has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties | – People with hormone-sensitive conditions should avoid using thyme oil
- Easy to find and affordable | – Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women
4. Marshmallow Root
Marshmallow root has been used as a natural remedy for cough and sore throat since ancient times. It contains mucilage, a substance that forms a protective layer on the throat, providing relief from irritation and inflammation. Marshmallow root is available in the form of tea, syrup, or lozenges.
To make marshmallow root tea, add one teaspoon of dried root to a cup of hot water and let it steep for 15 minutes. Drink it two to three times a day. You can also make a soothing syrup by boiling marshmallow root with honey and water until it thickens. This syrup can be taken directly or mixed with warm water or tea.
Pros | Cons
|
- Soothes and coats the throat | – May cause bloating or gas in some individuals
- Effective in reducing coughing | – Not suitable for infants under 1 year old
- Can also relieve symptoms of acid reflux | – May interact with certain medications and supplements
5. Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus is a powerful plant known for its decongestant and expectorant properties. It contains a compound called cineole, which can help loosen mucus and relieve coughing. Eucalyptus can be used in the form of leaves, essential oil, or lozenges.
To make eucalyptus tea, steep one teaspoon of dried leaves in hot water for 10 minutes. Drink it up to three times a day. You can also diffuse eucalyptus essential oil or rub it on your chest after diluting it with a carrier oil. For quick relief, you can also suck on eucalyptus lozenges.
Pros | Cons
|
- Reduces coughing and congestion | – Not safe for children under 6 years old
- Has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties | – May cause nausea or drowsiness when taken orally
- Can also relieve sinus headaches | – People with asthma should avoid using eucalyptus oil
6. Licorice Root
Licorice root has been used in traditional medicine to treat respiratory conditions such as cough, sore throat, and bronchitis. It contains compounds that can soothe the throat and reduce inflammation. Licorice root is available in the form of tea, syrup, or lozenges.
To make licorice root tea, add one teaspoon of dried root to a cup of hot water and let it steep for 15 minutes. Drink it two to three times a day. You can also make a soothing syrup by boiling licorice root with honey and water until it thickens. This syrup can be taken directly or mixed with warm water or tea.
Pros | Cons
|
- Effective in reducing coughing and sore throat | – People with high blood pressure should avoid using licorice root
- Has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties | – May cause headaches, high blood pressure or low potassium levels when used long-term
- Can help with acid reflux and stomach ulcers | – Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women
7. Mullein
Mullein is a herb that has been used to treat cough and respiratory infections due to its expectorant and soothing properties. Its leaves and flowers can be made into tea, syrup, tincture, or oil. It is also available in the form of lozenges.
To make mullein tea, steep one teaspoon of dried leaves or flowers in hot water for 15 minutes. Drink it two to three times a day. You can also make a syrup by boiling mullein leaves with honey and water until it thickens. This syrup can be taken directly or mixed with warm water or tea.
Pros | Cons
|
- Helps relieve sore throat and coughing | – May cause skin irritation when applied topically
- Has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties | – People allergic to ragweed may also be allergic to mullein
- Soothes irritated airways | – Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women
8. Pineapple Juice
Pineapple contains an enzyme called bromelain, which has anti-inflammatory and mucolytic properties. It can help loosen mucus and reduce coughing. Drinking pineapple juice can also boost the immune system and provide relief from other symptoms such as congestion and sore throat.
To make fresh pineapple juice, blend a cup of diced pineapple with a quarter cup of water. Drink it once or twice a day. You can also add ginger or honey for added benefits.
Pros | Cons
|
- Reduces coughing and congestion | – Not suitable for people taking blood-thinning medications
- Boosts the immune system | – May cause diarrhea or upset stomach in some individuals
- Has anti-inflammatory and mucolytic properties | – Not recommended for people with pineapple allergy or sensitivity
9. Slippery Elm
Slippery elm is a tree native to North America, and its inner bark has been used as a natural remedy for cough, sore throat, and other respiratory conditions. It contains mucilage, which can coat the throat and reduce irritation. Slippery elm is available in the form of tea, syrup, capsules, or lozenges.
To make slippery elm tea, add one teaspoon of dried bark to a cup of hot water and let it steep for 15 minutes. Drink it two to three times a day. You can also make a syrup by boiling slippery elm bark with honey and water until it thickens. This syrup can be taken directly or mixed with warm water or tea.
Pros | Cons
|
- Soothes and coats the throat | – May cause bloating or gas in some individuals
- Effective in reducing coughing | – Not suitable for infants under 1 year old
- Can also relieve symptoms of acid reflux | – May interact with certain medications and supplements
10. Peppermint
Peppermint is a popular herb known for its menthol content, which has a cooling effect on the throat and can provide relief from cough and sore throat. Peppermint leaves can be steeped in hot water to make tea, or peppermint oil can be added to hot water for steam inhalation.
To make peppermint tea, steep one teaspoon of dried leaves in hot water for 10 minutes. Drink it up to three times a day. You can also inhale steam with a few drops of peppermint oil added to hot water. Alternatively, you can rub diluted peppermint oil on your chest for quick relief.
Pros | Cons
|
- Reduces coughing and soothes the throat | – Not safe for children under 6 years old
- Has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties | – May cause skin irritation or allergic reactions when applied topically
- Can also relieve sinus headaches | – People with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) should avoid using peppermint oil
Comparison of the Top 10 Natural Cough Medicines
| Criteria | Honey | Ginger | Thyme | Marshmallow Root | Eucalyptus | Licorice Root | Mullein | Pineapple Juice | Slippery Elm | Peppermint |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ingredients | Raw honey | Fresh/dried ginger | Dried thyme leaves | Marshmallow root | Eucalyptus leaves/oil | Licorice root | Mullein leaves/flowers | Fresh pineapple | Slippery elm bark | Peppermint leaves/oil |
| Safety | Safe for children and pregnant women | Generally safe but may interact with certain medications | Generally safe but may cause skin irritation when applied topically | Safe for most individuals | Not safe for children under 6 years old | Not recommended for people with high blood pressure | Generally safe but may cause skin irritation when applied topically | Safe for most individuals | Generally safe but may interact with certain medications | Not safe for children under 6 years old |
| Effectiveness | Effective for cough and sore throat caused by allergies or cold | Effective in reducing coughing and boosting the immune system | Effective in relieving cough and congestion | Effective in soothing the throat and reducing coughing | Effective in reducing coughing and congestion | Effective in relieving cough and sore throat | Effective in reducing coughing and soothing irritated airways | Effective in reducing coughing and boosting the immune system | Effective in soothing the throat and reducing coughing | Effective in reducing coughing and soothing the throat |
| Ease of Use | Easy to mix with warm water or tea | Can be consumed in various forms | Easy to make into a tea or use as an essential oil | Easy to make into a tea or syrup | Easy to diffuse or rub on the chest | Easy to make into a tea or syrup | Easy to make into a tea or use as an essential oil | Easy to blend into juice or drink as is | Easy to make into a tea or syrup | Easy to inhale steam or rub on the chest |
| Price | Affordable and readily available | Affordable and readily available | Affordable and readily available | Affordable and readily available | Affordable and readily available | Affordable and readily available | Affordable and readily available | Affordable and readily available | Affordable and readily available | Affordable and readily available |
Pros and Cons of Using Natural Cough Medicines
Pros:
- Safer alternative to traditional over-the-counter medicines
- Often more affordable than prescription medications
- Can provide relief without causing harmful side effects
- May have additional health benefits such as boosting the immune system
- Use ingredients derived from plants and herbs, making them gentler on the body
Cons:
- May not be as effective for severe or chronic coughs
- Some natural remedies may interact with certain medications or supplements
- Not suitable for everyone, especially children or pregnant/breastfeeding women
- May cause allergic reactions in some individuals
- May require longer duration of use to see results compared to traditional medicines
Expert Opinions and Recommendations
According to Dr. Derrick Lonsdale, a retired pediatrician and author, “Nature has provided us with the best medicine cabinet of all, the ingredients are free, and we don’t need a prescription.” He recommends using raw honey, ginger, and slippery elm as natural cough remedies.
Dr. Nada Milosavljevic, a Harvard-trained physician, suggests using herbs such as thyme, eucalyptus, and peppermint for respiratory issues. She also recommends drinking plenty of fluids and gargling with salt water to relieve cough and sore throat.
Dr. William Sears, a renowned pediatrician and author of “The Portable Pediatrician,” recommends honey, ginger, and thyme as effective natural remedies for cough and advises against over-the-counter cough medicines for children.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In conclusion, natural cough medicines can provide safe and effective relief from cough and sore throat without harmful side effects. They also offer additional health benefits beyond treating the symptoms. However, it is essential to choose the right natural remedy based on your individual needs and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking medications.
Based on our review, we recommend honey, ginger, and thyme as the top three natural cough medicines due to their effectiveness, safety, and ease of use. However, different remedies may work better for different individuals, so it’s best to try a few options to find what works best for you. Remember to always follow the recommended dosage and discontinue use if you experience any adverse reactions. With the help of these natural cough medicines, you can find relief and support your overall health in a more natural, gentle way.
