What is the best cough syrup for dry cough home remedies?

Question

I’ve been dealing with a dry cough for the past few days, and it’s really irritating. There’s no mucus, just a constant tickle in my throat that won’t go away. I don’t want to use over-the-counter syrups because they make me drowsy, so I’m looking for an effective cough syrup for dry cough home remedies that actually works.

I have tried honey and ginger tea, but the relief is only temporary. Are there any homemade Ayurvedic syrups that provide long-lasting relief? I’ve read that Tulsi, Mulethi, and black pepper can help with a dry cough—what’s the best way to combine them into a syrup?

Another thing—does steam inhalation help with a dry cough, or is it more for congestion? I usually do it when I have a cold, but I’m not sure if it will help with this type of cough.

Also, is there anything I should avoid eating while I have a dry cough? Some people say dairy makes it worse, while others recommend turmeric milk. What’s the right approach?

If anyone has a tried-and-tested cough syrup for dry cough home remedy, please share your recipe! What ingredients work best, and how often should it be taken?

Dr Sujal Patil · Accepted Answer

For a dry cough, Ayurvedic remedies can be quite effective and provide long-lasting relief without the drowsy effects of over-the-counter syrups. Here are some home remedies that might help:

Homemade Ayurvedic Cough Syrup
Tulsi and Mulethi Syrup:
Ingredients:
10-12 Tulsi leaves
1-2 inches of Mulethi (licorice root)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon honey
1 cup water
Method: Boil the Tulsi, Mulethi, and black pepper in water for 5-10 minutes. Strain and let it cool slightly. Add honey to the mixture. Take 1-2 teaspoons of this syrup twice a day.
Ginger and Honey Syrup:
Ingredients:
1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
1 tablespoon honey
Method: Extract juice from the grated ginger and mix with honey. Consume 1 teaspoon of this mix, especially before bedtime to soothe the throat.
Black Pepper and Honey:
Ingredients:
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon honey
Method: Mix the black pepper with honey and take it 2-3 times a day.
Steam Inhalation
Steam inhalation is beneficial for congestion, but it can also moisturize the airways and provide temporary relief for a dry cough. Add a few drops of eucalyptus oil or peppermint oil to the steam for added relief.

Dietary Considerations
Avoid dairy if it seems to thicken mucus, as it can worsen the sensation of irritation in your throat.
Turmeric milk: If it doesn't aggravate your cough, turmeric milk can help soothe the throat due to turmeric's anti-inflammatory properties.
Warm fluids like herbal teas or lemon water with honey can also help soothe the throat.

What is the best cough syrup for dry cough home remedies? - #12570

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