With the arrival of the flu season, it's not uncommon to hear the sound of coughing in homes and workplaces. Coughing is a natural response of the body to clear the airways of mucus and irritants. However, excessive coughing can cause discomfort and disrupt daily life. While over-the-counter cough medicines are widely available, there are also many effective home remedies that can help manage coughing during the flu season.
Home Remedies To Manage Cough In Flu Season
1. Honey
Honey has been used as a cough suppressant for centuries due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It can also soothe an irritated throat and reduce the urge to cough. Mix one tablespoon of honey with hot water, tea or lemon juice to create a soothing cough syrup.
2. Ginger
Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, making it a popular home remedy for coughs. It can help reduce inflammation in the airways and loosen mucus, making it easier to expel. Try adding fresh ginger to tea or boiling sliced ginger in water for a homemade ginger tea.
Also read: First-time Mothers’ Guide: 7 Routine Vaccines To Be Administered To Babies
3. Garlic
Garlic is a powerful natural antibiotic and has antiviral properties, making it a popular home remedy for coughs and colds. It can also help relieve congestion and reduce inflammation in the respiratory system. Crush a few cloves of garlic and mix with honey to create a powerful cough syrup.
4. Saltwater gargle
Gargling with saltwater can help soothe a sore throat and reduce coughing. Salt water can help kill bacteria and viruses, reducing inflammation and irritation in the throat. Mix a teaspoon of salt in warm water and gargle for 30 seconds before spitting it out.
5. Turmeric
Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory and has been used for centuries to treat respiratory problems. It can help reduce inflammation in the airways, making it easier to breathe and reducing coughing. Add a teaspoon of turmeric to hot water, tea or milk to create a soothing drink.
6. Eucalyptus oil
Eucalyptus oil has a cooling effect on the airways and can help reduce inflammation and loosen mucus. It can also help relieve congestion and coughing. Add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to a bowl of hot water and inhale the steam for 10-15 minutes.
Also read: First-time Mothers’ Guide: 7 Routine Vaccines To Be Administered To Babies
7. Lemon
Lemon is rich in vitamin C and has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It can help boost the immune system and reduce inflammation in the respiratory system. Squeeze a lemon into hot water and drink it to help soothe a cough.
8. Chicken soup
Chicken soup is a popular home remedy for coughs and colds. It is rich in vitamins and minerals that can help boost the immune system and reduce inflammation in the respiratory system. It can also help soothe a sore throat and reduce coughing.
9. Steam
Inhaling steam can help loosen mucus and relieve congestion. It can also help reduce inflammation and soothe a cough. Boil water in a pot and inhale the steam for 10-15 minutes, being careful not to burn yourself.
10. Hydration
Staying hydrated is important when managing a cough. Drinking plenty of water and other fluids can help loosen mucus and reduce coughing. It can also help prevent dehydration, which can worsen coughing and other flu symptoms.
Coughing is a natural response of the body to clear the airways of irritants and mucus. While over-the-counter cough medicines are widely available, there are also many effective home remedies that can help manage coughing during the flu season. From honey and ginger to steam and hydration, there are plenty of natural remedies that can help soothe a cough and alleviate flu symptoms.
