Herbal Medicines for Cough

A cough is your body's way of expelling substances that irritate your airways. When sensitive cells in the air passages become irritated they trigger a chain of events that lead to coughing. Coughs are generally divided into two categories: acute and chronic. Acute coughs can be infectious or non-infectious. Chronic coughs are diagnosed by their relation with and effect on the lungs. There are a number of herbs that are recommended for curing and preventing a cough.

Coltsfoot

• Coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara) is a perennial herb that grows in large colonies. It produces yellow flowers that resemble those of the dandelion. The plant is native to Europe and Asia and has been introduced to North America. Because of Coltsfoot's expectorant properties, it is one of the most commonly used plants for coughs in herbal medicine. It is beneficial in the treatment of irritating coughs, bronchitis, and can soothe symptoms of asthma. It is made into a cough syrup and the suggested dose is two 5ml spoonfuls two to three times daily. Coltsfoot should not be used for extended periods of time.

Licorice and Marshmallow

• Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) is a sweet substance extracted from the root of a perennial herb. Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis) is a native African plant which has medicinal properties. These two plants are often combined to make a soothing elixir for the treatment of coughs. They are both soothing herbs that have the effect of suppressing coughs without having the side effects of prescription suppressants containing codeine. This cough mixture is not recommended for people who suffer from high blood pressure (hypertension). The suggested dose is two 5ml spoonfuls three times daily.

Thyme

• Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) is a perennial herb native to Mediterranean countries. It has had many uses throughout history, including being used for embalming in Ancient Egypt. It has antibiotic and antiseptic properties and can also be used for respiratory infections as a syrup and for throat inflammation as a gargle. Suggested dose is one 5ml spoonful every two to three hours.

Echinacea

• Echinacea (Echinacea angustifolia) is an herbaceous plant more commonly known as purple cone flower. The root and rhizome are used because of their many healing properties. Echinacea is considered to be a very beneficial herb because of its antibiotic, expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is recommended for coughs, bronchitis, tonsillitis and many other symptoms of colds and flu. It can also be taken as a preventative measure during the flu season. The suggested dose of 300 mg of standardized extract for no longer than seven to ten days.

Mullein

• Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) is a biennial herb with yellow flowers that is native to Europe and North America. It has relaxant and expectorant properties which make it a valuable herb for the treatment of irritating inflammations affecting the trachea and bronchial passages and dry cough. The suggested dose is one dropperful of mullein tincture in a cup of warm water every three to four hours.