A dry cough is often painful and makes the throat itchy. This condition can be caused by various things, including flu, asthma, GERD, allergies, irritation, ARI, whooping cough, and even Covid-19.
However, a dry cough usually goes away on its own without special treatment although it takes time. If you are not comfortable with this condition, there are various ways to get rid of a dry cough that you can try.
How to get rid of dry cough
Here are some ways to get rid of a dry cough with natural ingredients that can be done at home.
1. Water
Drinking more water can help with a dry cough. A hydrated body can keep the throat moist so that it speeds up the healing process. Try to drink about 8-12 glasses of water per day.
2. Real honey
Real honey has been used for generations as natural dry cough medicine and other types of cough. Not only can it coat the throat, but honey also has natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve throat irritation. In addition, its antimicrobial effect also has the potential to relieve mild bacterial or viral infections. A 2018 review concluded that honey is as effective as diphenhydramine for coughing.
3. Steam
Inhaling warm steam can help with a dry cough. Warm steam can moisturize dry and irritated nasal passages, relieve sore throats, and reduce the severity of coughs caused by infections or allergies. When inhaling steam, place a towel over your head to increase humidity. However, do not place your face in boiling water as this can cause burns.
4. Saltwater
According to a 2019 study in Scientific Report, gargling three times a day with salt water can reduce the duration of coughing and hoarseness. Gargle slowly for 30 seconds, then vomit again.
5. Turmeric
Turmeric contains the compound curcumin which has antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. Drinking turmeric tea can help relieve cough and asthma symptoms. This natural ingredient has also been used for centuries in traditional Indian medicine to treat a variety of ailments, from arthritis to respiratory ailments.
6. Ginger
Not only treat nausea and stomach pain but ginger can also be used to relieve dry coughs by relaxing the smooth muscles in the airways and moisturizing the throat. You can consume ginger tea or inhale its steam to get its benefits. Gingerol, a chemical compound in fresh ginger, is also able to suppress the overreaction in asthmatics when exposed to triggers, thereby preventing symptoms from developing.
7. Garlic
Garlic has antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. These natural ingredients can help relieve coughs associated with the flu. Consuming garlic regularly can even help lower blood pressure and boost the immune system.
8. Soup or broth
Soup or broth is a warm liquid that can help add moisture and soothe an itchy, sore throat. This warm liquid also helps you stay hydrated which is important to speed up the healing process.
9. Bromelain
Bromelain is an enzyme found in pineapple. This enzyme has strong anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swollen and irritated throat tissue. In addition, bromelain is also able to break down mucus. You can get bromelain from a glass of pineapple juice.
10. Throat lozenges
Lozenges containing mint or menthol have a strong cooling effect that can soothe irritated tissues and relieve coughs. You can buy them at pharmacies or shops.
Source: dr. Karlina
