Posted on Leave a comment

Highly Effective Homemade Cough Syrup- A Quick Natural Solution

When it comes to flu, I try to resort to home remedies as much as i can. I don’t like over the counter medication like suppressants, expectorants or decongestants to treat my cough unless it is keeping me up all night and a doctor suggests it. 

I have seen so many people who have bad cough and stuffy nose heading straight to a drug store to pick up OTC medication for relief. The labels of these OTC cough and cold medicines are often overseen or ignored; as a result, people don’t know what these bottles contain and what their ingredients can do.

Decongestants provide symptomatic relief from congestion because they cause narrowing of blood vessels in the nasal passages and sinuses. This can help to reduce inflammation and stuffy nose but what people overlook is that other blood vessels throughout the body are not immune from the narrowing effect. It can lead to high blood pressure and elevated heart rate. People who already have high BP should always take such medication under doctor’s supervision and never self medicate.

There are growing concerns about safety and doubts about the efficacy around the use of OTC cough medicines. In fact, most studies have found no evidence that over-the-counter medicines actually suppress or stop coughing. In many cases, they’ve performed no better than a placebo.

Most viral infections anyway don’t need any medical attention. It’s best to resort to home remedies. The more medicines you take, the lower will be your immunity.

This homemade cough syrup remedy was passed on to me by grandmother. I made it for the first time some 7 years back when I had dry cough that just didn’t go away. It had been more than 15 days, the cough didn’t seem to get any better. I tried everything from saline water gargles, hydration, steam, even tried mucolytic drugs prescribed by the doctor. But nothing gave me much relief.

It was then this syrup came to my rescue and worked like a charm. Within 3 days I noticed a huge relief in my cough. The best part is I can give this to my little one without any fear of side effects.

Ingredients used and their benefits 

1) Holy Basil or Tulsi Leaves: Tulsi, the ancient herb, has positive actions on the respiratory system. Tulsi or holy basil helps to effectively liquefy the phlegm. Boiled Tulsi water helps to provide a soothing effect to people suffering from sore throat. Due to its anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, Tulsi has been used as part of home remedies for cough and common cold for centuries. Its juice is also effective in bringing down fever.

2) Ginger: Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant that can help ease a cough. It can reduce inflammation in your respiratory tract and may even help to suppress the cough reflex.

3) Turmeric: Turmeric is a nutritional powerhouse and is said to contain a nutrient called curcumin, which has significant anti-inflammatory properties. It can relieve congestion and reduce coughing.

4) Black pepper: Due to the expectorant properties present in black pepper, it extends relieve from sinus, cough and nasal infection. It’s anti-viral which can break down mucus and phlegm deposition in the respiratory tract. 

5) Caraway seeds or Ajwain: Ajwain is a powerful spice that provides relief from coughing as well as clear mucus from your nose, both of which make breathing easier. It may also help to widen the bronchial tubes, which can help those with asthma.

6) Banafsha or Dried Sweet Violet Flower: Banafsha is one of the main hero ingredients in this recipe. It is medicinal plant which has a long proven history in treating whooping cough. It is highly effective in treating asthma, fever and also bodyache. It is also used as an ingredient in many herbal medicines. It expectorates phlegm from the chest and relieves chest pain and pneumonia.

7) Mulethi or Liquorice Root: Mulethi or Liquorice also known as “Sweetwood” is a traditional medicinal herb. It is widely used in Ayurvedic practice to treat respiratory and digestive disorders. It is said to contain anti-viral, anti-inflammatory & anti-bacterial properties, which maintains mucosal health. It is also an immunity booster because of its powerful antioxidants. 

8) Cloves: Clove is rich in essential oils which have antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. Its anti-inflammatory properties can accelerate healing process. Many people opt for clove oil to clear blocked nasal passages too. It also has a cooling effect on nasal cavity and throat. Cloves show expectorant property that helps to discharge secretions and mucous in the respiratory tract.

9) Star anise: Star anise has been traditionally used in Chinese medicines for centuries to treat respiratory and digestive disorders. Studies indicate star anise may have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anti-cancer, antispasmodic, and sedative properties. Be careful when it comes to star anise. Use Chinese star anise and not JAPANESE. Japanese star anise is believed to be highly toxic.

Recipe: makes 80 ml

Ingredients

  • 10 to 12 Tulsi leaves
  • 1″ ginger
  • 1″ fresh turmeric or organic turmeric powder
  • 10 to 12 Black peppercorns 
  • 1 tsp Caraway Seeds
  • 1 tbsp Banafsha
  • 1″ Mulethi
  • 2 cloves
  • 1 Star anise
  • 2 tbsps Jaggery powder
  • Water: 300 ml

Instructions

  1. Crush tulsi and ginger together. Coarsely crush peppercorn and cloves.
  2. In roughly 300 ml of water, add all the ingredients except jaggery.
  3. Let it all simmer till it reduces to almost 1/4th. Add jaggery and mix well till it melts. 
  4. Cover it and let it rest till it cools and then sieve it.
  5. Transfer it to a clean glass bottle.

Notes

  • It is safe for children. You can give this to kids above 1 year. One tsp for kids, twice in a day followed by warm water.
  • For adults about 10 ml twice a day followed by warm water
  • If not Jaggery, you can also add raw honey to it. Honey should be added when the concoction is completely cool. Honey should never be added to hot liquids as per Ayurveda. If you would like to know more about it, check out this link- Honey Rules! Why you should never cook honey. Do not give honey to children below 1 year.
  • This syrup will last you 2 days when kept at room temperature. But I prefer making it fresh everyday.
  • Drinking enough water is important with this syrup because some of the spices and herbs used are warm in nature.

Posted on Leave a comment

Combatting Coughs: Effective Home Remedies and Treatment Strategies

Coughing, while a natural reflex action to clear the airways, can be a persistent and bothersome symptom. Whether it’s disrupting your sleep or causing discomfort throughout the day, finding relief becomes paramount. AbrahamThePharmacist, a trusted voice in the medical community, sheds light on effective home remedies and strategies to alleviate coughing.

Embedded Video: How to stop coughing and cough home remedy treatment remedies by AbrahamThePharmacist

Understanding Coughs:

Coughs serve to clear the airways of irritants, mucus, and foreign particles. While most coughs resolve within 3-4 weeks, the discomfort they cause can be significant. Dry coughs, in particular, don’t produce mucus and can feel like a persistent tickle in the back of the throat.

Effective Home Remedies:

  1. Honey and Warm Water: Studies suggest that a mixture of warm water and honey can be more effective for dry coughs than over-the-counter cough syrups. This natural remedy coats the throat, reducing irritation.
  2. Ginger: Known for its therapeutic properties, ginger can help relax the airways. Consider adding ginger to the honey-water mix or brewing ginger tea for added benefits.
  3. Stay Hydrated: Drinking ample water can keep the throat moist and reduce the urge to cough.
  4. Avoid Acid Reflux Triggers: Acid reflux can irritate the throat, leading to coughing. Avoid triggers like caffeine, alcohol, chocolate, carbonated drinks, and acidic foods.

Additional Tips:

  • Over-the-Counter Cough Syrups: While Abraham advises against relying solely on these, they can be used in conjunction with other remedies for relief.
  • Neti Pot Sinus Rinse: A saline rinse can help clear out irritants from the nasal passages, reducing post-nasal drip that can lead to coughing.
  • Monitor Blood Pressure: Abraham introduces the “Blood Pressure Monitor Pro” app, which can help patients monitor their blood pressure, a crucial aspect of overall health.

When to Seek Medical Advice:

If your cough persists for more than three weeks, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional. Other red flags include coughing up blood, severe coughing fits, chest pain, unexplained weight loss, swollen glands, and difficulty breathing.

Final Thoughts:

While home remedies can offer relief, it’s crucial to understand the root cause of persistent coughing. Always consult a healthcare professional for persistent or severe symptoms.

Credits: A special thanks to AbrahamThePharmacist for his comprehensive insights on cough treatment. For more health advice, visit his YouTube channel and official website.


FAQs for the Post:

  1. What’s the difference between a dry cough and a productive cough?
    • A dry cough doesn’t produce mucus and often feels like a tickle in the throat, while a productive cough involves clearing mucus from the airways.
  2. How does honey help alleviate coughing?
    • Honey has natural antibacterial properties and can coat and soothe the throat, reducing irritation.
  3. Is ginger tea effective for coughs?
    • Yes, ginger has properties that can help relax the airways and reduce coughing.
  4. What are the common triggers for acid reflux?
    • Caffeine, alcohol, chocolate, carbonated drinks, and acidic foods can trigger acid reflux, leading to coughing.
  5. When should I be concerned about my cough?
    • If your cough persists for more than three weeks, or if you experience severe symptoms like coughing up blood or difficulty breathing, seek medical advice.

Blog Tags for the Post: cough remedies, dry cough, AbrahamThePharmacist, home remedies, cough treatment, natural cough relief, throat irritation, ginger benefits, honey for cough, acid reflux triggers.

Posted on Leave a comment

Dry Cough: Causes, Treatment, and Effective Home Remedies

A persistent dry cough can be more than just an annoyance; it can disrupt sleep, affect daily activities, and sometimes indicate an underlying health condition. Understanding the causes and knowing effective treatments can provide relief. In this guide, we’ll explore the causes of dry cough and delve into some proven home remedies as presented by Medinaz.

Embedded Video: Dry Cough Treatment | Dry Cough Home Remedy by Medinaz

Understanding Dry Cough:

A cough is a reflex action that clears the airway of irritants and mucus. Coughs can be categorized into productive (producing mucus) and nonproductive (dry). Dry coughs don’t produce mucus and are often more persistent and irritating.

Common Causes of Dry Cough:

  • Airway Hyper-responsiveness: Conditions like asthma can lead to dry cough.
  • GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease): Acid reflux can irritate the throat, causing a cough.
  • Postnasal Drip: Mucus from the nasal passages dripping down the throat can trigger a cough.
  • Viral Infections: Respiratory infections can lead to persistent coughing.
  • Environmental Irritants: Smoke, pollution, and allergens can cause coughing.
  • Medications: Some medicines, like ACE inhibitors, can cause dry cough as a side effect.
  • Other Causes: Whooping cough, collapsed lung, lung cancer, and heart failure can also lead to dry cough.

Effective Home Remedies for Dry Cough:

  1. Honey: Known for its antibacterial properties, honey can coat the throat, reducing irritation and inflammation.
  2. Salt Water Gargle: Gargling with warm salt water can pull out mucus from inflamed tissues, offering relief.
  3. Humidifier: Increasing room moisture can soothe the throat. Steam from a warm shower or a container can also help.
  4. Ginger: Beneficial for dry cough, ginger can suppress the cough reflex and offers antibacterial properties.
  5. Thyme: Contains thymol, which can help relax the throat muscles. It’s recommended for occasional use.
  6. Marshmallow Root: Used in cough syrups, it soothes the throat and reduces irritation.
  7. Peppermint: Contains menthol, which numbs nerve endings in the throat, reducing the urge to cough.
  8. Cough Medications: Over-the-counter antitussive cough syrups can reduce the cough reflex, providing relief.

Final Thoughts:

While home remedies can offer temporary relief, it’s essential to understand the root cause of a persistent dry cough. If you’re unsure about the cause or if the cough persists, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional.

Credits: A special thanks to Medinaz for their comprehensive video on dry cough treatment. For more health insights, visit their YouTube channel.


FAQs for the Post:

  1. What differentiates a dry cough from other types of cough?
    • A dry cough doesn’t produce mucus and is often more persistent and irritating compared to productive coughs.
  2. How does honey help in treating dry cough?
    • Honey has antibacterial properties and can coat the throat, reducing irritation and inflammation.
  3. Is it safe to use a humidifier for prolonged periods?
    • While humidifiers can be beneficial, it’s essential to clean them regularly to prevent mold growth.
  4. Can dry cough be a symptom of a serious condition?
    • While dry cough can arise from common causes, it can also indicate serious conditions like lung cancer or heart failure. It’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional if the cough persists.
  5. Are over-the-counter cough medications safe?
    • Most over-the-counter cough medications are safe when used as directed. However, it’s essential to read the label and consult a healthcare professional if unsure.

Blog Tags for the Post: dry cough, cough treatment, Medinaz, home remedies, persistent cough, throat irritation, natural treatments, cough relief, respiratory health, cough causes.

Posted on Leave a comment

14 Effective Home Remedies for Cough

a doctor with stethoscope wearing pink face mask while looking at the camera

Hello there! 😊 If you’re reading this, chances are you’re looking for some relief from that pesky cough. Well, you’re in the right place! This blog post will guide you through 14 effective home remedies for various types of cough. So, let’s dive right in! 🏊‍♀️

🤔 Understanding Cough

First things first, let’s understand what a cough is. A cough is your body’s way of responding when something irritates your throat or airways. An irritant stimulates nerves that send a message to your brain. The brain then tells muscles in your chest and abdomen to push air out of your lungs to force out the irritant. A cough can be acute, subacute, or chronic depending on how long it lasts.

🌿 Natural Remedies for Different Types of Cough

🧑‍🦳 Cough Home Remedies for Adults

When it comes to adults, one of the most effective and time-honored remedies for a sore throat is honey. Honey is a natural substance that has been used for centuries for its healing properties. It is known for its ability to soothe the throat and reduce the severity and frequency of a cough. Honey is rich in antioxidants and has antimicrobial properties, which can help to fight off infections. It also acts as a natural cough suppressant, reducing the urge to cough.

Here are some ways you can use honey as a cough remedy:

  • Take a spoonful of raw honey once or twice a day, especially before bedtime.
  • Add honey to a cup of warm water or herbal tea.
  • Mix honey with lemon juice for added benefits.

😷 Dry Cough and Chest Pain Natural Remedy

For those suffering from a dry cough and associated chest pain, ginger can be a lifesaver. Known for its multitude of health benefits, ginger can soothe a dry cough and relieve chest pain. Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce inflammation in the throat and chest, providing relief from the discomfort caused by a persistent dry cough.

Here are some ways you can use ginger as a cough and chest pain remedy:

  • Chew on a piece of raw ginger.
  • Add ginger to your tea or hot water and sip on it throughout the day.
  • Mix ginger juice with honey for a potent cough remedy.

🌙 Cough Syncope Home Remedy

Cough syncope is a condition where a person faints after a bout of intense coughing. While it’s always important to seek medical attention for such conditions, staying hydrated can be a simple yet effective home remedy. Drinking fluids of any kind, especially water, is beneficial in keeping your throat moist and reducing the urge to cough.

Here are some ways to stay hydrated for Cough Syncope or otherwise :

  • Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water a day.
  • Include fresh fruits and vegetables with high water content in your diet.
  • Drink herbal teas, fruit juices, or broths to increase your fluid intake.

🧠 Sensory Neuropathic Cough Home Remedies

Sensory neuropathic cough is a chronic cough that’s thought to be caused by a sensory neuropathy, or damage to the sensory nerves in the upper airway. One of the most effective home remedies for this type of cough is steam inhalation. The warmth and moisture from the steam can soothe the throat and airways, reducing the cough reflex.

Here are some ways to do steam inhalation to help with Sensory Neuropathic Cough:

  • Take a hot shower and allow the steam to accumulate in the bathroom.
  • Boil water in a pot, place a towel over your head, and inhale the steam.
  • Use a humidifier in your room to increase the moisture in the air.

🤧 Natural Remedies for Stuffy Nose and Cough

A stuffy nose and cough can be quite bothersome, affecting your ability to breathe comfortably. One of the simplest and most effective home remedies for this is a saltwater gargle. The saltwater can help soothe a sore throat that often accompanies a stuffy nose and cough. It can also help clear nasal congestion by thinning the mucus and making it easier to expel.

Here are some ways to do a saltwater gargle to help with Stuffy Nose and Cough:

  • Mix a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water.
  • Take a sip of the solution and gargle for a few seconds before spitting it out.
  • Repeat the process a few times a day.

⏱️ Instant Remedy for Dry Cough

For those looking for an instant remedy for a dry cough, turmeric can be a great option. Turmeric is a staple in traditional medicine and can provide instant relief from a dry cough. The curcumin in turmeric has powerful anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help relieve symptoms of a dry cough.

Here are some ways to use turmeric as a cough remedy:

  • Add a teaspoon of turmeric to a glass of warm milk and drink it before bedtime.
  • Mix turmeric with honey to make a potent cough remedy.
  • Add turmeric to your food to reap its benefits.

🌱 Ayurvedic Remedies for Cough

Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, offers a wealth of remedies for various ailments, including cough. Let’s explore some of these remedies.

🍵 Ayurvedic Medicine for Bronchitis Cough

Tulsi, also known as Holy Basil, is a popular remedy for cough in Ayurveda. It is known for its Vata and Kapha pacifying properties and can be beneficial in managing bronchitis cough. Consuming a few leaves of Tulsi or drinking Tulsi tea can help soothe the throat and reduce coughing.

Here are some ways to use Tulsi as a cough remedy:

  • Chew on a few leaves of Tulsi.
  • Make a tea by boiling Tulsi leaves in water.
  • Mix Tulsi juice with honey for a potent cough remedy.

🌿 Ayurvedic Medicine for Chronic Cough

For chronic cough, Ayurveda often recommends black pepper. Black pepper can help to break up mucus and phlegm deposits in the respiratory tract, providing relief from chronic cough.

Here are some ways to use black pepper as a cough remedy:

  • Add black pepper to your food.
  • Mix black pepper with honey and consume it a few times a day.
  • Make a tea by boiling black pepper in water.

🍵 Natural Remedies for Mucus in Chest

If you’re dealing with mucus in your chest, hot liquids can be a great help. Hot liquids, such as tea or a warm water, can help in dissolving mucus in the respiratory tract and relieve congested chest.

Here are some ways to use hot liquids as a remedy for Mucus in Chest:

  • Drink a cup of herbal tea a few times a day.
  • Sip on warm water throughout the day.
  • Make a warm soup and consume it for relief.

🏃‍♀️ Best Ways to Get Rid of a Cough Fast

When it comes to getting rid of a cough fast, a combination of honey and lemon can be quite effective. Both honey and lemon have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe the throat and reduce coughing.

Here are some ways to use honey and lemon as a cough remedy:

  • Mix a spoonful of honey with a few drops of lemon and consume it a few times a day.
  • Add honey and lemon to a cup of warm water or tea and sip on it.
  • Make a cough syrup by mixing honey, lemon, and ginger.

🍵 Home Remedies for Cough and Mucus

If you’re dealing with a cough and mucus, ginger tea can be a great home remedy. The warmth of the tea can soothe the throat, while the ginger can help break up mucus and reduce inflammation.

Here are some ways to use ginger tea as a remedy for Cough and Mucus:

  • Make a tea by boiling ginger in water.
  • Add ginger to your regular tea.
  • Mix ginger juice with honey for a potent cough remedy.

🏠 Curing Bronchitis at Home

Bronchitis can be quite bothersome, but there are ways to manage it at home. One of the most effective ways is through steam inhalation. Steam inhalation can help soothe the airways and loosen mucus, which can be beneficial in managing bronchitis symptoms.

Here are some ways to do steam inhalation for Curing Bronchitis:

  • Take a hot shower and allow the steam to accumulate in the bathroom.
  • Boil water in a pot, place a towel over your head, and inhale the steam.
  • Use a humidifier in your room to increase the moisture in the air.

🌿 Herbs for Cough and Mucus

When it comes to managing cough and mucus, herbs can be quite beneficial. One such herb is thyme. Thyme has been used in medicine for thousands of years and can help treat respiratory conditions, including cough and mucus.

Here are some ways to use thyme as a cough remedy:

  • Make a tea by boiling thyme leaves in water.
  • Add thyme to your food.
  • Mix thyme oil with a carrier oil and apply it on your chest.

🌙 Dry Cough Remedies

If you’re dealing with a dry cough, especially at night, honey can be quite beneficial. Consuming a spoonful of honey before bed can provide relief from dry cough. It can soothe the throat and reduce coughing, leading to better sleep.

Here are some ways to use honey as a cough remedy:

  • Take a spoonful of raw honey before bedtime.
  • Add honey to a cup of warm water or herbal tea.
  • Mix honey with lemon juice for added benefits.

🍵 Homemade Cough Syrup

If you’re looking for a homemade remedy for a cough, consider making a cough syrup from honey, lemon, and ginger. These ingredients have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe the throat and reduce coughing.

Here’s how to make homemade cough syrup:

  • Mix equal parts of honey, lemon juice, and ginger juice.
  • Store the mixture in a clean jar.
  • Take a spoonful of the syrup a few times a day.

🌙 Home Remedy for Sore Throat and Dry Cough

A sore throat and dry cough can be quite bothersome, but a warm saltwater gargle can provide relief. The warmth can soothe the throat, while the salt can help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria.

Here are some ways to do a saltwater gargle to help with Sore Throat and Dry Cough:

  • Mix a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water.
  • Take a sip of the solution and gargle for a few seconds before spitting it out.
  • Repeat the process a few times a day.

🌟 Magic Cure for Post Nasal Drip Cough

If you’re dealing with a post nasal drip cough, staying hydrated and using a humidifier can help. The moisture can help thin the mucus, making it easier to expel and reducing coughing.

Here are some ways to stay hydrated and use a humidifier for Post Nasal Drip Cough:

  • Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water a day.
  • Include fresh fruits and vegetables with high water content in your diet.
  • Use a humidifier in your room to increase the moisture in the air.

🏆 Best Natural Remedy for Cough

When it comes to the best home remedy for cough, honey often takes the crown. Its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties can soothe the throat and reduce coughing, providing relief.

Here are some ways you can use honey as a cough remedy:

  • Take a spoonful of raw honey once or twice a day, especially before bedtime.
  • Add honey to a cup of warm water or herbal tea.
  • Mix honey with lemon juice for added benefits.

🤧 Home Remedies for Cough and Cold

When dealing with a cough and cold, rest and hydration are crucial. Rest allows your body to heal, while hydration helps thin mucus and reduces coughing.

Here are some ways to rest and stay hydrated:

  • Get at least 7-9 hours of sleep a night.
  • Take short naps during the day if needed.
  • Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water a day.
  • Include fresh fruits and vegetables with high water content in your diet.

🎉 Conclusion

And there you have it! We’ve journeyed through a comprehensive list of 14 effective home remedies for cough, each one offering a unique approach to tackling different types of coughs. From the soothing properties of honey and the anti-inflammatory benefits of ginger, to the traditional Ayurvedic practices involving Tulsi and black pepper, these remedies provide a natural and accessible way to manage and alleviate cough symptoms.

It’s fascinating to see how these remedies, many of which have been used for centuries, align with modern scientific understanding. For instance, the antimicrobial properties of honey and the anti-inflammatory effects of ginger have been confirmed by numerous scientific studies. Similarly, the use of herbs like Tulsi and black pepper in Ayurveda is backed by a rich history of traditional knowledge and recent scientific research.

However, it’s important to remember that while these remedies can provide relief, they are not a substitute for medical advice. Persistent or severe symptoms should always be evaluated by a healthcare provider. Moreover, it’s essential to remember that everyone’s body is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to try different remedies and see what works best for you.

In conclusion, the power of nature and traditional knowledge, combined with modern scientific understanding, offers us a wealth of options when it comes to managing a cough. Whether you’re dealing with a dry cough, a cough accompanied by mucus, or a chronic cough, these remedies can provide some relief and comfort. So, the next time you find yourself or a loved one grappling with a cough, consider trying out these home remedies. Stay healthy, embrace the healing power of nature, and happy healing! 🎉

Blog Tags: Cough Remedies, Home Remedies, Dry Cough, Cough Treatment, Ayurvedic Medicine, Bronchitis, Mucus in Chest, Chronic Cough, Cough and Cold, Natural Remedies, Homemade Cough Syrup, Post Nasal Drip, Sore Throat, Cough and Mucus, Stuffy Nose, Cough Syncope, Sensory Neuropathic Cough, Herbs for Cough.