A dry cough is a type of cough that does not produce any mucus or phlegm. It can be caused by various factors.
Causes and Symptoms of Dry Cough
Allergies can trigger a dry cough by causing inflammation and irritation in your throat and airways.
You may also have other symptoms, such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, or skin rashes.
You can treat allergies with antihistamines, nasal sprays, or allergy shots.
Infections:
Viral or bacterial infections, such as the common cold, flu, COVID-19, bronchitis, or pneumonia, can cause a dry cough by inflaming your throat and lungs.
You may also have other symptoms, such as fever, chills, sore throat, headache, or body aches.
You can treat infections with rest, fluids, pain relievers, or antibiotics (if prescribed by your doctor).
Acid reflux:
Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a condition where stomach acid flows back up into your esophagus, which connects your mouth to your stomach.
Stomach acid can irritate your esophagus and trigger your cough reflex.
You may also have other symptoms, such as heartburn, chest pain, regurgitation of food or sour liquid, or a lump in your throat.
You can treat acid reflux with lifestyle changes, such as avoiding spicy or fatty foods, eating smaller meals, or raising the head of your bed.
You can also take over-the-counter or prescription medications, such as antacids, proton pump inhibitors, or H2 blockers.
Asthma:
Asthma is a chronic condition that affects your airways, making them narrow and inflamed.
Asthma can cause a dry cough, especially at night or after exercise.
You may also have other symptoms, such as wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, or coughing attacks.
You can treat asthma with inhalers, nebulizers, or oral medications, such as bronchodilators, corticosteroids, or leukotriene modifiers.
Environmental irritants:
Environmental irritants, such as smoke, dust, pollen, or chemicals, can cause a dry cough by irritating your throat and lungs.
You may also have other symptoms, such as burning eyes, nose, or throat, or a runny nose.
You can treat environmental irritants by avoiding or minimizing your exposure to them, or by using a humidifier, air purifier, or saline nasal spray to moisten and clear your airways
Fortunately, there are some natural remedies that may help you soothe your throat and ease your cough. In this blog post, we will share with you 12 home remedies for dry cough that you can try at home.
These remedies are based on scientific evidence, traditional wisdom, and common sense.
However, they are not intended to replace medical advice or treatment.
If your cough persists for more than two weeks, or if you have other symptoms such as fever, chest pain, or difficulty breathing, you should consult your doctor.
1. Honey
Honey is one of the most popular and effective home remedies for dry cough.
It has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties that can help fight infections and reduce inflammation in your throat.
Honey can also coat your throat and soothe the irritation caused by coughing.
According to a 2021 review of studies, honey was more effective than usual care, both in suppressing the cough and in reducing the need for antibiotics.
Another study found that honey was comparable to dextromethorphan, a common cough suppressant ingredient, for reducing cough frequency and severity.
To use honey for dry cough, you can take a teaspoon of raw honey several times a day, or add it to a cup of warm water or herbal tea.
You can also mix honey with lemon juice, ginger, or cinnamon for extra benefits.
However, you should avoid giving honey to children under one year old, as it may contain botulinum spores that can cause infant botulism, a rare but serious condition.
2. Ginger
Ginger is another well-known home remedy for dry cough.
It has anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antibacterial properties that can help boost your immune system and fight off infections.
Ginger can also relax the muscles in your chest and throat, and stimulate the production of saliva, which can moisten your dry throat and ease your cough.
A 2015 study examined 10 different natural products used in traditional Asian medicines, including ginger.
The researchers found that ginger and other remedies, such as honey, have played a continued role in traditional medicine for treating upper respiratory conditions, bronchitis, and asthma.
To use ginger for dry cough, you can peel and slice a fresh ginger root and boil it in water for 10 to 15 minutes.
Strain the liquid and drink it as a tea, or add honey or lemon juice for more flavor.
You can also chew on a piece of raw ginger, or use ginger powder or capsules as a supplement.
However, you should be careful not to consume too much ginger, as it may cause stomach upset or heartburn in some people.
3. Turmeric
Turmeric is a spice that has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine for various ailments, including dry cough.
Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antibacterial properties.
Curcumin can also modulate the immune system and reduce the production of mucus, which can help relieve a dry cough.
A 2017 study found that curcumin could inhibit the growth of bacteria that cause respiratory infections, such as Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae.
To use turmeric for dry cough, you can add a teaspoon of turmeric powder and a pinch of black pepper to a glass of warm milk and drink it before bed.
Black pepper can enhance the absorption of curcumin into the bloodstream.
You can also add turmeric to your food, or take it as a supplement in the form of capsules or tablets.
However, you should consult your doctor before taking turmeric, as it may interact with some medications, such as blood thinners or diabetes drugs.
4. Steam
Steam is a simple and effective home remedy for dry cough. It can help loosen the mucus and phlegm in your lungs and throat, and make it easier to cough them out.
Steam can also hydrate and soothe your dry and irritated throat, and reduce the inflammation and swelling in your airways.
A 2008 study showed that drinking liquids at room temperature or warmer could alleviate a cough, runny nose, and sneezing.
To use steam for dry cough, you can take a hot shower or bath and inhale the steam for 10 to 15 minutes.
You can also fill a bowl with hot water and add a few drops of essential oils, such as eucalyptus, peppermint, or lavender.
Cover your head with a towel and lean over the bowl, breathing in the steam for 10 to 15 minutes.
You can repeat this process several times a day, or as needed.
However, you should be careful not to burn yourself with the hot water or steam, and avoid this remedy if you have asthma or other respiratory conditions that may worsen with steam inhalation.
5. Salt water
Salt water is another simple and effective home remedy for dry cough.
It can help kill the bacteria and viruses that cause infections in your throat and lungs.
It can also reduce the inflammation and irritation in your throat, and thin the mucus and phlegm, making it easier to cough them out.
A 2010 study found that gargling with salt water three times a day could prevent upper respiratory infections, such as the common cold.
To use salt water for dry cough, you can dissolve a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and gargle with it for a few seconds.
Spit it out and repeat until you finish the glass. You can do this several times a day, or as needed.
However, you should not swallow the salt water, as it may cause dehydration or increase your blood pressure.
6. Garlic
Garlic is a powerful natural remedy for dry cough. It has antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties that can help fight off infections and boost your immune system.
Garlic can also act as an expectorant, which means it can help loosen and expel the mucus and phlegm from your lungs and throat.
A 2014 study found that garlic could reduce the severity and duration of the common cold and flu, and prevent complications, such as pneumonia and bronchitis.
To use garlic for dry cough, you can peel and crush a few cloves of fresh garlic and eat them raw, or add them to your food.
You can also boil a few cloves of garlic in water for 10 to 15 minutes, strain the liquid and drink it as a tea, or add honey or lemon juice for more flavor.
You can also use garlic oil or capsules as a supplement.
However, you should be careful not to consume too much garlic, as it may cause bad breath, stomach upset, or bleeding problems in some people.
7. Thyme
Thyme is an herb that has been used for centuries for treating coughs and other respiratory problems.
Thyme has antispasmodic, expectorant, and antibacterial properties that can help relax the muscles in your throat and chest, and clear the mucus and phlegm from your lungs.
Thyme can also soothe your dry and irritated throat, and reduce the inflammation and pain caused by coughing.
A 2006 study found that thyme and ivy extracts could effectively treat acute bronchitis, which is a common cause of dry cough.
To use thyme for dry cough, you can add a teaspoon of dried thyme or a few sprigs of fresh thyme to a cup of boiling water and steep it for 10 to 15 minutes.
Strain the liquid and drink it as a tea, or add honey or lemon juice for more flavor.
You can also inhale the steam from the thyme tea, or use thyme oil or capsules as a supplement.
However, you should consult your doctor before taking thyme, as it may interact with some medications, such as blood thinners or thyroid drugs.
8. Marshmallow root
Marshmallow root is a plant that has been used for centuries for treating coughs and sore throats.
Marshmallow root contains mucilage, a sticky substance that can coat your throat and soothe the irritation and inflammation caused by coughing.
Marshmallow root can also stimulate the production of saliva, which can moisten your dry throat and ease your cough.
A 2005 study found that marshmallow root extract could significantly reduce the intensity and frequency of dry cough.
To use marshmallow root for dry cough, you can add a teaspoon of dried marshmallow root or a few slices of fresh marshmallow root to a cup of boiling water and steep it for 10 to 15 minutes.
Strain the liquid and drink it as a tea, or add honey or lemon juice for more flavor.
You can also use marshmallow root syrup or capsules as a supplement.
However, you should consult your doctor before taking marshmallow root, as it may interact with some medications, such as diabetes drugs or diuretics.
9. Licorice root
Licorice root is another plant that has been used for centuries for treating coughs and sore throats.
Licorice root has anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and expectorant properties that can help reduce the inflammation and irritation in your throat, and clear the mucus and phlegm from your lungs.
Licorice root can also stimulate the production of saliva, which can moisten your dry throat and ease your cough.
A 2013 study found that licorice root extract could reduce the cough reflex and the urge to cough in healthy volunteers.
To use licorice root for dry cough, you can add a teaspoon of dried licorice root or a few slices of fresh licorice root to a cup of boiling water and steep it for 10 to 15 minutes.
Strain the liquid and drink it as a tea, or add honey or lemon juice for more flavor.
You can also use licorice root syrup or capsules as a supplement.
However, you should consult your doctor before taking licorice root, as it may interact with some medications, such as blood pressure drugs or steroids.
10. Chamomile
Chamomile is a flower that has been used for centuries for treating various health problems, including dry cough.
Chamomile has anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and sedative properties that can help relax the muscles in your throat and chest, and reduce the inflammation and pain caused by coughing.
Chamomile can also promote sleep and relaxation, which can help you cope with the stress and fatigue caused by a dry cough.
A 2010 study found that chamomile tea could improve the quality of sleep and reduce the symptoms of depression in elderly people.
To use chamomile for dry cough, you can add a teaspoon of dried chamomile flowers or a chamomile tea bag to a cup of boiling water and steep it for 10 to 15 minutes.
Strain the liquid and drink it as a tea, or add honey or lemon juice for more flavor.
You can also inhale the steam from the chamomile tea, or use chamomile oil or capsules as a supplement.
However, you should be careful not to consume too much chamomile, as it may cause allergic reactions in some people, especially those who are sensitive to plants in the same family, such as ragweed, chrysanthemums, or marigolds.
11. Pineapple juice
Pineapple juice is a delicious and nutritious home remedy for dry cough.
Pineapple juice contains bromelain, an enzyme that has anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and expectorant properties.
Bromelain can help reduce the inflammation and swelling in your throat and lungs, and clear the mucus and phlegm from your airways.
Bromelain can also suppress the cough reflex and the urge to cough, which can help you feel more comfortable.
A 2010 study found that bromelain could reduce the symptoms and duration of acute sinusitis, which is a common cause of dry cough.
To use pineapple juice for dry cough, you can drink a glass of fresh or canned pineapple juice several times a day, or add it to your smoothies or salads.
You can also mix pineapple juice with honey, ginger, or turmeric for extra benefits.
You can also use bromelain supplements as an alternative.
However, you should consult your doctor before taking bromelain, as it may interact with some medications, such as antibiotics or blood thinners.
12. Hydration
Hydration is one of the most important and easiest home remedies for dry cough.
Drinking enough water and other fluids can help keep your throat and lungs moist and lubricated, which can prevent them from becoming dry and irritated.
Hydration can also help thin the mucus and phlegm in your airways, and make it easier to cough them out.
Hydration can also boost your immune system and help your body fight off infections and inflammation.
A 2018 study found that dehydration could impair the mucociliary clearance, which is the process of removing the mucus and foreign particles from your respiratory tract.
To use hydration for dry cough, you should drink at least eight glasses of water a day, or more if you are sweating, exercising, or have a fever.
You can also drink other fluids, such as herbal teas, fruit juices, soups, or broths.
However, you should avoid drinks that can dehydrate you, such as alcohol, caffeine, or sugary drinks. You should also avoid drinks that can irritate your throat, such as carbonated, acidic, or spicy drinks.
Conclusion
These are some of the home remedies for dry cough that you can try at home.
They are natural, safe, and effective, and can help you relieve your cough and improve your health.
However, they are not substitutes for medical advice or treatment.
If your dry cough persists for more than two weeks, or if you have other symptoms, such as fever, chest pain, or difficulty breathing, you should see your doctor as soon as possible.
Your doctor can diagnose the cause of your cough and prescribe the appropriate medication or therapy.
Remember, a dry cough can be a sign of a serious condition, such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, or lung cancer, so do not ignore it or delay seeking help.
FAQs
Why are vitamins important for our health?
Vitamins play crucial roles in various bodily functions, from supporting immune system function to aiding in energy metabolism.
They help maintain overall health and well-being, filling nutritional gaps that may arise from diet alone.
Can I get all the vitamins I need from food alone?
While a balanced diet is essential, it may be challenging to meet all vitamin requirements through food alone.
Supplements can provide a convenient and effective way to ensure you get adequate levels of essential vitamins, especially when dietary intake is insufficient.
How do I choose the right vitamin supplements for my needs?
Consider factors such as your age, gender, health goals, and potential deficiencies.
Consult with a healthcare professional to determine your specific needs and select supplements
that address those requirements. Quality, dosage, and form (e.g., capsules, liquid) are also important considerations.
Are there any side effects of taking vitamin supplements?
While vitamins are generally safe when taken as directed, excessive intake of certain vitamins can lead to adverse effects.
It’s important to follow recommended dosage guidelines and consult with a healthcare provider if you have concerns about potential side effects or interactions with medications.
Can vitamins help boost my immune system?
Yes, several vitamins, such as vitamin C, D, and zinc, play crucial roles in supporting immune function.
However, it’s essential to maintain a well-balanced diet and healthy lifestyle habits, including regular exercise and sufficient sleep, to optimize overall immune health.
Are there specific vitamins for skin health?
Yes, vitamins like A, C, and E are known for their positive effects on skin health.
They contribute to collagen production, protect against oxidative stress, and support overall skin vitality.
Including these vitamins in your diet or through supplements can contribute to a healthy and radiant complexion.
