When you're sick, coughs are one of the worst symptoms that you can have. This is especially true if it is one of those awful, consistent hacking coughs that just won't let up. If you don't want to use over-the-counter medications or these drugs have been ineffective in relieving your cough, you may want to consider using a few natural remedies instead. Here are three – backed by science – to give a try:
1. Honey
When it comes to a sore throat, many people turn to honey. However, it may also be able to relieve your cough. In fact, one study has shown that it has the ability to relieve the frequency and severity of your cough better than over-the-counter medicines with dextromethorphan (DM) in them while also helping you sleep better at night. This is even a safe and effective remedy for children who are dealing with an upper respiratory infection or a nocturnal cough. You can eat the honey straight or add it to some warm water with lemon or a cup of herbal tea.
2. Probiotics
You may be able to combat cold-related symptoms, which includes a cough, by taking probiotics twice a day for half a year, according to one study. The study focused on children, and the results were astonishing. Children who took a certain probiotic known as acidophilus NCFM were able to cut their fevers in half. They also saw a 28 percent reduction in runny noses and a 41 percent reduction in coughing spells. Plus, the kids that did end up catching the cold were able to recover more than twice as fast.
3. Bromelain (Pineapples)
Pineapples contain bromelain, which is a mixture of several enzymes. It has been used for centuries as a way to relieve inflammation and treat indigestion. Today, it can be used for a lot more than that. Specifically, some research has shown that bromelain may be effective in reducing nasal mucus and coughs that are associated with sinusitis. Some even say that it can suppress your cough five times more than an over-the-counter cough syrup.
If these natural methods don't work and neither do standard over-the-counter medications, you may want to speak to your doctor about creating a custom prescription for you. You can then take that prescription to a compound pharmacy where they'll be able to mix medications to hopefully create a concoction that will help relieve your cough. For more information, contact Jeff's Prescription Shop or a similar location.
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