What are some dry cough home remedies for adults?

Question

I’ve been dealing with a persistent dry cough for several weeks now, and it’s been really bothering me, especially at night. It feels like there’s something stuck in my throat, but I’ve been told that it’s just irritation. I’ve tried a few over-the-counter remedies, but none seem to help long-term. I’m interested in learning about some dry cough home remedies for adults that could provide more natural relief.

I’ve heard that Ayurveda has effective remedies for treating dry cough, especially those that focus on soothing the throat and reducing irritation. I’ve come across remedies using honey, ginger, and tulsi (holy basil), but I’m unsure about the right way to use them. Can anyone suggest how to prepare these herbs for dry cough relief?

For example, should I take ginger tea with honey, or is it better to consume ginger in powder form? I’ve also heard that turmeric milk can help reduce inflammation in the throat. How often should I take these remedies for best results?

I’ve also been told that steam inhalation with eucalyptus oil or menthol can help clear the airways. Is this an effective method for a dry cough, or does it only work for chest congestion? I’ve tried inhaling steam, but it didn’t seem to provide lasting relief.

Lastly, are there any dietary restrictions or lifestyle changes I should consider while using natural remedies for my dry cough? Should I avoid cold drinks or spicy foods that could irritate my throat further?

Dr Sujal Patil · Accepted Answer

Ayurveda offers several natural remedies to treat a dry cough, focusing on soothing the throat, reducing inflammation, and calming irritation. Key ingredients like ginger, honey, tulsi (holy basil), and turmeric are frequently used for this purpose.

Ginger with Honey: Ginger is a well-known remedy for throat irritation, and honey acts as a natural soothing agent. To prepare, boil fresh ginger slices in water for 10 minutes and add 1–2 teaspoons of honey once the tea cools down slightly. This ginger-honey tea can be consumed 2-3 times a day. Alternatively, you can take a small piece of ginger with honey directly, especially if you prefer a stronger effect. Turmeric milk (a teaspoon of turmeric in warm milk) can also help reduce inflammation and soothe the throat. Drink it before bed to get the best results for nighttime relief.
Tulsi: Holy Basil (Tulsi) has both antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that are helpful for relieving cough. To use, boil a few fresh tulsi leaves in water and sip the tea throughout the day, or you can also make a paste of fresh tulsi leaves with honey and ginger for a potent remedy. This should be consumed 2–3 times a day to relieve irritation.
Steam Inhalation: While steam inhalation can help clear the nasal passages and ease throat irritation, it is more effective for conditions with congestion. If it doesn't provide long-lasting relief, consider adding eucalyptus oil or menthol to the steam. Inhale the steam for 5-10 minutes, but don't overdo it if it worsens the irritation.
Dietary Considerations: While using natural remedies, avoid cold, dry foods, and spicy or fried foods as they can irritate the throat. Stick to warm, soothing foods like soups and stews. Also, drinking warm water throughout the day can help keep the throat hydrated and reduce irritation.
With consistent use of these remedies, you should see improvement over 1–2 weeks. If your cough persists or worsens, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying conditions.

What are some dry cough home remedies for adults? - #11410

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