Top Natural Remedies for a Cough

Why Do We Cough?

Coughing is your body’s natural way of clearing irritants from your throat and airways. It’s an important reflex that helps keep your respiratory system clear, but when it lingers, it can quickly become frustrating.

Common causes of cough include:
> Asthma
> Allergies
> Irritation from smoke or pollutants
> Bacterial infections (e.g. bronchitis, sinusitis)
> Viral infections (e.g. flu, common cold)

Although coughing is protective, many people seek relief when it becomes persistent. Instead of turning straight to over-the-counter medications, you might want to explore gentler, natural options. Below are a couple of time-tested remedies.

1. Honey 
Honey has long been used to soothe sore throats—and for good reason. Its thick texture coats the throat, easing irritation and calming the cough reflex. On top of that, honey offers antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial benefits.
Important note: Honey should never be given to children under one year old due to the risk of infant botulism. After that age, their digestive system is developed enough to handle it safely.

2. Ginger 
Ginger is another natural powerhouse with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. It can be especially helpful for dry or asthmatic coughs, thanks to compounds that help relax airway muscles.
For an extra soothing effect, try pairing it with honey. A warm cup of ginger tea sweetened with honey can calm your throat and ease coughing—just make sure to sip it while it’s still warm.

3. N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC)
N-acetyl cysteine, commonly called NAC, is an amino acid that helps your body boost levels of glutathione, one of its most powerful antioxidants. Beyond its antioxidant role, NAC has the ability to thin and loosen mucus in the airways, making it useful for easing wet coughs and reducing their frequency.

4. Bromelain
Bromelain is a natural enzyme found in pineapples. It’s well known for its anti-inflammatory effects and its ability to break down mucus that contributes to cough symptoms.
However, if you are on medications—particularly blood thinners—it’s best to consult your doctor first, as bromelain can interact with certain drugs.

While using a natural home remedy can put a stop to your cough, it may not do anything to treat an underlying medical condition. So it’s important that you address the actual cause of your cough as well. 

Certainly, consult your healthcare provider if your cough is worsening, persists for several weeks, causes vocal hoarseness, or keeps you up at night.

Source(s): Medical News Today, Healthline