Multiple home remedies and treatments can help relieve a dry cough, but the choice depends on the severity and underlying cause. Honey is widely recognized for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties; you can take a spoonful directly or mix it with warm water or herbal tea to help calm the throat and reduce coughing, especially before bedtime[1][2][3][4].
Ginger, known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities, may also help relieve dry cough either by chewing fresh root, drinking ginger tea, or combining it with honey for greater effect[1][2].
Avoiding irritants such as smoke, dust, and strong odors is important, as these can worsen coughing[3]. Breathing in moist air from a humidifier or by creating steam in the bathroom can help reduce coughing and throat dryness[3][5][7]. Similarly, gargling with warm salt water helps reduce throat irritation and inflammation[3][4].
Peppermint (taken as tea, lozenges, or essential oil) contains menthol, which cools and numbs the throat and can reduce the urge to cough[1][5].
Drinking plenty of warm fluids—such as teas, broth, or warm milk—keeps your throat lubricated and helps soothe symptoms[3][5][6]. Cough drops or hard candies can also moisten the throat and suppress coughing[3].
Additional natural options include turmeric (especially in warm milk), marshmallow root, licorice root tea, and capsaicin (from chili peppers), though capsaicin should not be used for children[1][2][4][5].
Over-the-counter cough suppressants, such as those containing dextromethorphan, may provide relief for persistent dry coughs, but consult a healthcare professional if the cough is severe or lasts longer than three weeks, or if accompanied by chest pain or difficulty breathing[5][7].
References
- [1] 13 Home Remedies for a Dry Cough – Healthline
- [2] 10 Effective Home Remedies for Dry Cough – Redcliffe Labs
- [3] Dry Cough Remedies From Your Pantry to the Pharmacy
- [4] 9 Best Home Remedies for Dry Cough at Night
- [5] Home Remedies for Dry Cough: Natural & Effective Solutions
- [6] 5 Home Remedies for Your Cough – St. Vincent’s Medical Center
- [7] How to Get Rid of a Cough: Dry and Wet Cough Medicines – GoodRx
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