What Are the Best Home Remedies for Dry Cough at Night, and How Do They Work?

Question

I’ve been dealing with a dry cough at night that keeps me awake, and I’m looking for some natural remedies to help relieve it. What are the best home remedies for dry cough at night, and how do they work to soothe the throat and reduce irritation?

From what I understand, herbs like ginger, honey, and turmeric are commonly used to treat dry coughs. How do these ingredients help calm a dry cough and reduce inflammation in the throat?

How should I take these remedies? For example, should honey be mixed with warm water, or should it be taken directly? What other herbal treatments or home remedies are effective for managing dry coughs at night?

I’ve also heard that steam inhalation with essential oils like eucalyptus or peppermint can help clear the airways and reduce coughing at night. How does this method work, and how often should I use it for maximum effectiveness?

Lastly, are there any dietary changes or lifestyle habits that I can incorporate to help prevent coughing at night, especially during colder weather or allergy seasons?

Dr. Harsha Joy · Accepted Answer

To manage a dry cough at night, Ayurveda recommends soothing the throat and reducing irritation with remedies like ginger, honey, and turmeric. Ginger has warming and anti-inflammatory properties that help loosen mucus and calm the throat, while honey provides moisture and soothes irritation. Turmeric's antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects also reduce throat inflammation. You can mix honey with warm water and a pinch of turmeric to make a soothing drink or take honey directly with ginger juice before bedtime. Steam inhalation with eucalyptus or peppermint essential oils can also help clear airways and reduce throat dryness. This method works by hydrating the airways and easing congestion, and you can use it a couple of times a day or before bed for the best results. For lifestyle changes, elevating your head while sleeping can prevent mucus buildup, and avoiding cold, dry air or spicy, acidic foods before bed can help prevent coughing. Keeping your environment warm and using a humidifier can also reduce throat dryness during colder weather or allergy seasons.

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