What Are the Best Desi Remedies for Cough?

Question

Cough is one of those problems that can range from mildly annoying to seriously disruptive, especially when it lingers for weeks. While I know there are syrups and lozenges, I’ve always preferred natural solutions. What are the best desi remedies for cough that can provide relief without side effects?

One of the most popular remedies I’ve heard of is honey mixed with ginger juice. Honey is said to coat the throat and reduce irritation, while ginger helps with inflammation. How effective is this remedy for dry and wet coughs? Should it be consumed warm, and how often can it be taken in a day?

Turmeric milk (haldi doodh) is another suggestion I’ve seen everywhere. It’s supposed to be great for soothing the throat and reducing cough due to turmeric’s antibacterial properties. Should it be consumed before bed, and are there any additional ingredients, like black pepper or cardamom, that can make it more effective?

For chest congestion, steam inhalation with eucalyptus oil or tulsi leaves is often recommended. How helpful is this for clearing the respiratory tract? Is it safe to do daily, and are there any risks for young children or elderly individuals?

I’ve also read about herbal teas made with mulethi (licorice root), cinnamon, and tulsi. Do these provide relief for persistent coughs, and which combinations work best?

Lastly, some people recommend chewing on cloves or ajwain seeds to soothe throat irritation and reduce coughing fits. Do these actually work, and how long does it take to notice any relief?

If anyone has tried desi remedies for cough, I’d love to hear what worked for you. Did these treatments provide immediate relief, or did they take a few days to show results? Also, are there any precautions to keep in mind when trying these natural remedies?

Dr Sujal Patil · Accepted Answer

There are many effective desi remedies for cough that have been used for centuries, often providing relief without the side effects associated with pharmaceutical options. Honey mixed with ginger juice is a popular remedy, as honey coats the throat, soothing irritation, while ginger has natural anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce coughing. For best results, this mixture should be consumed warm, 2-3 times a day, especially for dry coughs. Ginger helps clear up mucus in a wet cough as well, while honey prevents further irritation. It is best to use organic, raw honey for maximum benefits.

Turmeric milk (haldi doodh) is another excellent remedy for soothing the throat and reducing cough, thanks to turmeric's potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities. Consuming turmeric milk before bed can help calm the throat overnight, allowing for rest and faster healing. To increase its effectiveness, you can add a pinch of black pepper, which enhances the absorption of turmeric’s active compound, curcumin, or a dash of cardamom to improve taste and further aid in soothing the respiratory system. This drink can be safely consumed daily, especially during the colder months or when you feel a cough coming on.

Steam inhalation with eucalyptus oil or tulsi leaves is another great remedy, particularly effective for chest congestion. The steam helps loosen mucus and clears the respiratory passages, while eucalyptus oil has natural antiseptic properties, and tulsi is known for its healing benefits in Ayurveda. Steam inhalation is generally safe for adults and children but should be done with caution. Ensure that the steam is not too hot, and always supervise children or elderly individuals when using this method. It can be done 1-2 times a day, but overuse may lead to irritation in sensitive individuals.

Dr. Harsha Joy · Answer

Desi remedies for cough can be very effective, especially when used consistently and appropriately. Honey mixed with ginger juice is a well-known and potent remedy for both dry and wet coughs. Honey soothes the throat and reduces irritation, while ginger helps reduce inflammation and clear mucus. This can be taken 2-3 times a day, preferably warm, to offer quick relief. Turmeric milk (haldi doodh) is another powerful remedy due to turmeric’s anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It can be consumed at night before bed, and adding black pepper or cardamom enhances its effectiveness by improving absorption of turmeric and offering additional warmth. For chest congestion, steam inhalation with eucalyptus oil or tulsi leaves is excellent for clearing the airways, but it should be done with caution, especially in children or elderly individuals, to avoid irritation from the steam. Mulethi (licorice root), cinnamon, and tulsi make a soothing tea for persistent coughs, with mulethi especially helping to calm the throat and ease congestion. Lastly, chewing cloves or ajwain seeds can help reduce throat irritation and coughing fits; relief is often felt within 15-30 minutes, though it may take a few days for persistent symptoms to fully subside. While these remedies are generally safe, it’s important to monitor your body’s response, particularly for those with conditions like high blood pressure or allergies, and consult a healthcare provider if symptoms persist.

What Are the Best Desi Remedies for Cough? - #11048

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