Currently, cough is one of the most dreaded symptom that can happen to anyone. This is one of the common symptoms of COVID-19 infection. This is the reason why we take extra care of our throat and respiratory system. However, coughing is not always dangerous. Sometimes, it may also occur in a mild form due to some other reasons. However, there is nothing more troubling than a persistent dry cough. It not only irritates your throat but also hinders your daily activity.
Coughing is your body’s defensive reflex that works to keep away from irritating or obstructing your airways so that you can breathe effectively. It is also known as nonproductive cough because this type of cough does not produce mucus or phlegm.
Dry cough may result
Viral infections, such as colds, influenza, COVID-19 infections.
Post-viral illness Cough-cough that persists for weeks after a viral illness.
- Allergies – dust allergy or pollen allergy.
- smoking
- Nasal drip – drainage of mucus secretions from the nose or sinuses in the back of the throat.
- asthma
- tuberculosis
- laryngitis
- Due to inhalation of foreign body.
- Some types of lung disease are known as interstitial lung disease.
- drug-induced cough such as ACE inhibitor induced
In most cases, people use over-the-counter medications to get instant relief. However, if the cough persists for more than 2 weeks, it is necessary to find out the underlying cause. Till then you can control the symptoms of cough at home with these easy home remedies.
1: Hot Drinks
It is important for people with a cough or cold to stay warm and hydrated. Whenever you drink hot beverages, it can relieve your symptoms immediately. Hot water, clear broth, herbal tea can ease dry cough, throat irritation and cold immediately and persist even after eliminating hot drinks.
2: Saltwater gargles
It is one of the most effective home remedies to treat sore throat and cough. It reduces inflammation of the throat and bouts of cough.
Mix half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water until it dissolves. Allow the solution to cool slightly before using it for gargling.
3: Ginger
Whenever we think of cough, ginger is the first home remedy that comes to our mind. It has anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties. It also helps in boosting immunity and clearing away mucus accumulated in the respiratory tract. There is evidence that ginger can suppress the cough reflex by relaxing the smooth muscles of the airways.
How to Treat Cough and Cold -Home Remedies
Ginger can be found in many foods and teas. Ginger tea is a great option to get rid of a dry cough and a blocking sensation. Adding honey to dry cough can make it even more beneficial.
4: Raw Honey
Raw honey is one of the oldest home remedies to treat cough. It helps to soothe your throat and reduce irritation. It has anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties that can potentially calm minor bacterial or viral infections.
You can mix 2 teaspoons of honey in a glass full of warm water and drink it once a day. Also, you can use honey instead of sugar in your tea.
5: Turmeric
Turmeric is a great antiseptic, antiviral and anti-inflammatory agent that helps your body recover from any infection. It contains curcumin which helps in reducing cough and other symptoms of asthma. Turmeric is also beneficial for treating upper respiratory conditions, bronchitis and tonsillitis.
You can make your regular tea and add half a teaspoon of turmeric to it, else you can also add 2-3 black pepper seeds to it for better results.
6: Licorice Root
Licorice root has been used since 2100 BC. and is said to reduce pain, clear phlegm, and reduce cough. Licorice root tea can help reduce throat irritation and congestion. It is available in any grocery store.
7: Marshmallow Root
Marshmallow root is an ancient herb used to treat dry cough. Some studies suggest its effectiveness in soothing the throat and reducing the irritation caused by a dry cough.
8: Mint Leaves
Mint leaves contain menthol which helps numb the nerves in the throat which can reduce recurrent bouts of dry cough. It also helps to clear throat congestion. You can add 3-5 mint leaves to your tea and boil it for a few minutes before drinking.
9: Chili Peppers
Chili peppers contain a compound called capsaicin, which binds to pain receptors and causes a burning sensation when we consume spicy food. Studies have shown that consuming controlled amounts of chili powder (which contains capsaicin) can significantly improve the sensitivity of the throat and thereby control dry cough to some extent.
Sonal Mitra 
Yojna Aggarwal 
Health News