Coughing Causes
Ever wonder what causes you to cough? Here are some of the most frequent causes for the peskiest of coughs.
The Common Cold
Coughs are most often the unfortunate derivative of a common cold. A cold being the contagious infection that affects the respiratory system. The common cold is an airborne illness typically confined to the throat, nose and mouth. Like the flu, it is brought on by a virus.
Sinus Infection
If your nasal passages are inflamed or become infected, a sinus infection is likely the culprit. Such infections occur when bacteria or allergens cause too much mucus to form, blocking the openings of your sinuses.
Croup
Croup is a viral condition that causes swelling around the vocal cords, and is responsible for scaring many a new parent. It often comes with a nasty cough that is characterized as sounding like a barking seal. Children under the age of five are the most frequent targets of this particular illness.
The Remedies
We've gathered together a few of the best-working cough remedies that the entire family will benefit from.
Honey
We've gathered together a few of the best-working cough remedies that the entire family will benefit from. It might sound hokey, but sometimes a spoonful of honey really is all you need to get rid of that nasty cough once and for all. It's a time-honored remedy for a sore throat and is said to relieve coughs often sooner than over-the-counter medicines. It works best when it's mixed with herbal tea or warm water with lemon.
Licorice Root Tea
Drinking licorice tea is a great and natural way to soothe your airways while easing congestion and inflammation. Plus, it's considerably sweeter than any table sugar.
Gargle Salt Water
Don't turn your nose up just yet. Gargling salt water is a fail-safe remedy for sore throats and unyielding coughs. Stir salt into water until it's dissolved, gargle for about 15 seconds, spit and repeat. Rinse with plain water to get rid of any lingering saltiness.
MORE: Cold and Flu Myths
Steam
Steaming can potentially have several, wonderful healing benefits. By adding essential oils to your steam treatment, you'll be able to get rid of that unwanted mucus all while fighting off bacteria and viruses. If you don't have a humidifier or access to a steam room, you can still treat yourself to a hot shower for similar results. Or try this infused towel approach by Everyday Roots.
Probiotics
While they won't relieve a cough directly, probiotics are proven to balance the bacteria that live in your intestines, which can support immune system function throughout your body. Fortified milk, for example, is recommended to combat the likelihood of a cold.
MORE: Win the Germ War
Peppermint
A delicious treat and decongestant all in one! Peppermint offers incredible relief from any cough-related unpleasantness. Drink it in tea form, or inhale peppermint vapors in a steam bath.
Flaxseed Syrup
Boiling flaxseeds in water gives you a thick, gooey gel that can significantly ease throat discomfort. Combine it with honey and lemon for a super-soothing, cough-suppressing, syrupy, all-natural remedy.
