Are you struggling with a persistent dry cough? It can be particularly bothersome at night, making it difficult to sleep. Home remedies for dry cough can provide relief for both you and your children without causing any harm or side effects. These remedies are commonly employed by Indians and other Asians, and they may be effective for you too. So, I am going to tell you the most widely used 15 home remedies for dry cough. But, before that, we should talk about cough first.
What is Dry Cough?
A dry cough is an unproductive cough in which there is no sputum production, and it doesn’t bring up mucus. Dry coughs are not able to remove phlegm, mucus, or irritants from lungs and other respiratory passages. You may feel a tickle in the back of your throat that will trigger the cough reflex, which causes you to cough. They are often challenging to manage and can severely affect your routine life. They can be extremely irritating and disruptive because they can last for months. The severity and duration of dry cough increase up to weeks if you have the co-existing flu or cold. (1,2)
Several conditions can cause a dry cough. It includes postnasal drip, asthma, GERD, or acid reflux. Chronic cough can be an adverse or side effect of long term exposure to environmental toxins, such as cigarette smoke. (3)
Home Remedies for Dry Cough
1. Ginger for Dry Cough
When exploring home remedies for dry cough, ginger is a powerful and versatile option to consider. This spicy, aromatic root has long been used in traditional medicine for its numerous health benefits, including its ability to soothe coughs and throat irritation.
Ginger contains compounds like gingerols and shogaols, which exhibit anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. These compounds can help reduce inflammation in the throat, alleviate irritation, and suppress coughing.
To harness the benefits of ginger for a dry cough, try these simple methods:
- Chew on a small piece of fresh ginger root throughout the day, allowing the juices to coat your throat and provide relief.
- Prepare ginger tea by steeping 1-2 teaspoons of freshly grated ginger in a cup of hot water for 10 minutes. Strain and enjoy 2-3 times a day.
- Combine equal parts ginger juice, honey, and lemon juice to create a potent cough syrup. Take a tablespoon as needed for relief.
Incorporating ginger into your daily routine can help alleviate the discomfort associated with a dry cough.
2. Honey for Dry Cough
When seeking home remedies for dry cough, honey stands out as a natural and effective option. This sweet, viscous substance has been used for centuries to soothe irritated throats and calm coughs, making it a popular choice for those looking for relief.
Honey is packed with antioxidants, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce throat irritation, suppress coughing, and boost the immune system. Its thick texture also coats the throat, providing a protective layer that eases discomfort.
To benefit from honey as a dry cough remedy, try these simple suggestions:
- Take a teaspoon of raw, organic honey on its own, allowing it to slowly coat your throat as you swallow.
- Mix one tablespoon of honey with a cup of warm water or herbal tea, such as chamomile or peppermint, and sip slowly.
- Combine equal parts honey, lemon juice, and warm water to create a soothing cough syrup. Take a tablespoon as needed.
Incorporate honey into your daily routine, consuming it 2-3 times a day until your dry cough subsides. Keep in mind that honey is not suitable for infants under one year of age due to the risk of botulism.
3. Saltwater or Luke-warm Water for Dry Cough
When it comes to treating a dry cough with home remedies, there are a few different options to consider. One of the most common remedies is to drink plenty of fluids, as this can help to soothe the throat and reduce irritation. However, the type of fluid you choose can make a difference.
Some people swear by saltwater gargles as a way to alleviate a dry cough. This involves mixing salt into warm water and using the solution to gargle for a few minutes before spitting it out. The saltwater can help to reduce inflammation in the throat and loosen mucus, making it easier to cough up.
Others prefer to use lukewarm water to soothe their throat. Drinking warm liquids like tea or soup can also be helpful, as the warmth can help to relax the muscles in the throat and reduce coughing.
4. Turmeric for Dry Cough
Turmeric is being used for many medical conditions. It contains many chemicals, one of which is curcumin. This compound has antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial characteristics that help to fight infections. It may also be effective in several conditions, including dry cough. It also has antioxidant properties making it a more effective remedy. It has been used to cure upper respiratory diseases, asthma, and bronchitis, in herbal medicine for a long time. (4)
- The absorption of curcumin into the blood is increased when consumed with black pepper. Add one teaspoon of turmeric and some black pepper into some drink, such as orange juice, and then drink it. You can also make warm tea with turmeric and black pepper.
- Turmeric in warm milk is an effective way to fight against cough and cold. To get faster recovery, drink a glass of warm turmeric milk. (5)
Turmeric is available in spice form, as well as in capsule form.
Related article: 10 Turmeric Health Benefits You Should Know About
5. Spiced Tea or Chai Tea for Dry Cough
Make spiced tea by adding ginger, tulsi, and black pepper while preparing your tea. This spiced tea will have healthy effects on your body. All of these three ingredients has an essential role in fighting cough and the common cold.
In the United States. Chai tea is also becoming popular. It is used to treat conditions like dry cough and sore throat in India. It contains ingredients like including cloves and cardamom that have antioxidant properties. Cloves also play a role as an expectorant. Cinnamon is also present in chai tea that has anti-inflammatory properties.
6. Amla: Home Remedy for Dry Cough
Amla, also known as Indian gooseberry, is a potent home remedy for dry cough due to its high vitamin C content and numerous health benefits. This small, green fruit has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries to treat various ailments, including coughs and respiratory issues.
Rich in antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, amla can help strengthen the immune system, soothe throat irritation, and reduce inflammation, making it an effective remedy for dry coughs.
To benefit from amla’s healing properties, try these simple suggestions:
- Consume one teaspoon of amla powder mixed with a teaspoon of honey twice a day to soothe the throat and suppress coughing.
- Prepare amla tea by boiling a tablespoon of dried amla in two cups of water for 10 minutes. Strain and enjoy 2-3 times a day.
- Juice fresh amla and mix it with an equal amount of honey. Take one tablespoon of this mixture daily for relief.
7. Flaxseeds for Dry Cough
When searching for home remedies for dry cough, don’t overlook the power of flaxseeds. These tiny, nutrient-rich seeds can provide relief from the discomfort and irritation caused by a persistent dry cough.
Flaxseeds are packed with essential nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and lignans. The mucilage in flaxseeds forms a gel-like substance when mixed with water, which can help soothe and coat the throat, providing relief from dryness and irritation.
To use flaxseeds as a cough remedy, follow these simple steps:
- Grind 2 tablespoons of flaxseeds into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle.
- Boil 1 cup of water and add the ground flaxseeds. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- The water will thicken as the flaxseeds release their mucilage.
- Strain the mixture using a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove any remaining solids.
- Add a teaspoon of honey and a squeeze of lemon juice for added flavor and cough-relief benefits.
- Drink this warm flaxseed tea 2-3 times a day until your dry cough improves.
8. Jaggery and Carrot juice for Dry Cough
Combating a dry cough can be a challenge, but with the help of home remedies for dry cough like jaggery and carrot juice, you can find relief from irritation and discomfort. These natural ingredients are packed with nutrients and health benefits, making them an excellent choice for soothing a persistent cough.
Jaggery, a traditional unrefined sugar made from sugarcane or date palm, is rich in antioxidants and minerals. It has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine to treat respiratory issues. Jaggery can help soothe the throat, reduce inflammation, and alleviate coughing by acting as an expectorant.
Carrot juice, on the other hand, is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as beta-carotene and potassium. These nutrients support the immune system and help combat inflammation, thus aiding in cough relief.
To make a soothing jaggery and carrot juice remedy, follow these steps:
- Juice 4-5 fresh carrots to yield approximately 1 cup of carrot juice.
- Warm the carrot juice gently in a saucepan, being careful not to boil it.
- Add 1-2 tablespoons of grated jaggery to the warm juice and stir until it dissolves completely.
- Sip on this comforting beverage 2-3 times a day for optimal cough relief.
9. Marshmallow Root for Dry Cough
Marshmallow root is a time-tested home remedy for dry cough, providing soothing relief from throat irritation and discomfort. This herbal remedy has been used for centuries to treat various ailments, including coughs and respiratory issues, due to its mucilaginous properties.
The mucilage found in marshmallow root forms a gel-like substance when mixed with water, which coats and soothes the throat, reducing irritation and suppressing coughing. Additionally, marshmallow root has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can help combat inflammation and infection.
To benefit from marshmallow root as a dry cough remedy, try these simple suggestions:
- Prepare marshmallow root tea by steeping 1-2 tablespoons of dried marshmallow root in a cup of hot water for 15-20 minutes. Strain and enjoy 2-3 times a day.
- Opt for marshmallow root lozenges, which are available in many health food stores. Follow the package instructions for proper usage.
- Consider taking marshmallow root in the form of a liquid extract or capsules, as directed by the manufacturer.
Include marshmallow root into your daily routine to help alleviate the discomfort associated with a dry cough.
10. Peppermint and Capsaicin for Dry Cough
When it comes to home remedies for dry cough, natural ingredients like peppermint and capsaicin can provide much-needed relief. Both ingredients possess unique properties that can help alleviate the discomfort caused by a persistent cough.
Peppermint, a popular herb used in traditional medicine, is known for its soothing menthol content. Menthol has a cooling effect on the throat, which can help ease the irritation and scratchiness associated with a dry cough. To harness the benefits of peppermint, simply prepare a warm cup of peppermint tea by steeping dried or fresh leaves in hot water for 5-10 minutes. Sip on this soothing beverage 2-3 times a day for optimal results.
Capsaicin, on the other hand, is a compound found in chili peppers, and it has been shown to reduce coughing by desensitizing nerve endings in the throat. A simple way to incorporate capsaicin into your cough-relief routine is by consuming a small amount of spicy food or adding a dash of cayenne pepper to your meals. Alternatively, you can find capsaicin-based throat lozenges in some health stores.
11. Aromatherapy with Eucalyptus for Dry Cough
Suffering from a persistent dry cough can be quite a nuisance, especially when it disrupts your daily life. Fortunately, home remedies for dry cough are plentiful and can provide quick relief. One such remedy is aromatherapy with eucalyptus oil.
Eucalyptus oil, derived from the leaves of the eucalyptus tree, is a popular ingredient in many natural cough remedies. It contains compounds like eucalyptol and cineole, which possess antiviral, antibacterial, and expectorant properties. These help soothe your throat, reduce inflammation, and promote easier breathing.
To enjoy the benefits of eucalyptus aromatherapy, follow these simple steps:
- Fill a bowl with hot water and add 3-5 drops of pure eucalyptus essential oil.
- Place a towel over your head and lean over the bowl, keeping a safe distance to avoid burns. Inhale the steam deeply for 5-10 minutes.
- Repeat this process 2-3 times a day until your dry cough subsides.
- Alternatively, you can also diffuse eucalyptus oil in a room using an essential oil diffuser or add a few drops to a humidifier.
Remember to always use high-quality, pure eucalyptus essential oil and follow the instructions on the label to ensure safe use. If you’re pregnant, nursing, or have a pre-existing medical condition, consult with a healthcare professional before using eucalyptus oil.
12. Use of Humidifier for Dry Cough
If you’re dealing with a dry cough, one of the simplest home remedies for dry cough relief is using a humidifier. Adding moisture to the air in your living space can help alleviate the irritation and discomfort associated with a persistent cough.
Dry air can irritate the throat and airways, making a dry cough feel worse. By using a humidifier, you increase the humidity in your environment, which can help soothe your throat and reduce coughing. Humidifiers work by releasing moisture into the air, creating a more comfortable atmosphere for those suffering from a dry cough.
To make the most of this remedy, follow these guidelines:
- Place a humidifier in the room where you spend the most time, such as your bedroom or living room.
- Maintain a humidity level between 40% and 60% to prevent mold growth and other issues related to excessive moisture.
- Clean your humidifier regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions to prevent bacteria and mold buildup.
- Consider adding a few drops of essential oils, like eucalyptus or peppermint, to your humidifier for added soothing benefits.
13. Use of Air purifier for Dry Cough
When looking for home remedies for dry cough, one often-overlooked solution is using an air purifier. This device can help improve indoor air quality, removing potential irritants that may exacerbate a persistent cough.
Air purifiers work by filtering out allergens, dust, pet dander, and other airborne particles that can irritate the throat and airways, leading to a dry cough. By reducing these irritants, an air purifier can help create a more comfortable environment for those suffering from a cough.
To make the most of an air purifier as a dry cough remedy, consider these tips:
- Choose an air purifier with a HEPA filter, as these filters are highly effective in trapping small particles that can aggravate a cough.
- Place the air purifier in the room where you spend most of your time, such as your bedroom or living area.
- Regularly clean or replace the air purifier’s filters according to the manufacturer’s recommendations to maintain optimal performance.
- Keep doors and windows closed to prevent outdoor allergens and pollutants from entering your living space.
14. Antitussive Cough Medications for Dry Cough
While there are numerous home remedies for dry cough, sometimes an over-the-counter (OTC) antitussive cough medication may be necessary for relief. Antitussives are designed to suppress a dry, nonproductive cough, helping to alleviate the discomfort and irritation associated with persistent coughing.
Common OTC antitussive cough medications contain active ingredients such as dextromethorphan (DM) or codeine, which work by acting on the cough center in the brain to reduce the urge to cough. These medications can be found in various forms, including syrups, lozenges, and capsules.
To make the most of antitussive cough medications, keep these guidelines in mind:
- Read and follow the label instructions carefully, paying close attention to dosing recommendations and any possible side effects.
- Choose a product specifically formulated for dry coughs to ensure effective relief.
- Avoid using antitussive medications in combination with other cough suppressants, as this may increase the risk of side effects.
- Consult a healthcare professional if your dry cough persists or worsens, as it may be a sign of an underlying health issue.
Please note that antitussive medications are not suitable for everyone. If you’re pregnant, nursing, or have a pre-existing medical condition, it’s essential to seek professional advice before using these medications. Additionally, antitussive cough medications should not be used in children under the age of 4 without a doctor’s recommendation.
15. Cough drops for Dry Cough
These are medicines that help to soothe and provide relief to irritated throat tissue. There is a wide variation in the ingredients of cough drops. Some contain a compound called as menthol that numb the nerve ending and thus reducing the urge to cough. Some cough drops may also contain eucalyptus or ginger as the main ingredient. (6,7)
When to Consult a Doctor
The duration of dry cough is usually limited but usually ends on their own without treatment or with home remedies. However, if there are any other symptoms in addition to cough, you should see your doctor. These symptoms include:
- Difficulty in breathing (shortness of breath)
- Fever or chills
- Wheezing (whistling sounds)
- Chest pain or severe chest discomfort or back pain
You should consult your doctor if your cough becomes severe or the duration of your cough is more than fifteen days.
In conclusion, home remedies for dry cough offer a range of natural and effective options for those seeking relief from throat irritation and discomfort. Remedies such as honey, ginger, amla, marshmallow root, and the use of humidifiers or air purifiers can help alleviate the symptoms of a dry cough. However, it’s essential to remember that each individual’s response to these remedies may vary, and what works for one person may not work for another.
Always consult a healthcare professional if your dry cough persists or worsens, as it may indicate an underlying health issue that requires medical attention. Pregnant or nursing individuals and those with pre-existing medical conditions should also seek professional advice before trying new home remedies. By combining natural remedies with professional guidance, you can effectively manage and treat your dry cough, ensuring a faster and more comfortable recovery.
