Plants Used in Cough Medicine

A variety of plants have been used as cough suppressants, expectorants and sore throat soothers. Cough medicines have included herbal ingredients for several years.

Licorice

• The root of the licorice plant is often used as a soothing agent in the Ayurvedic tradition as well as in Chinese medicine. It is believed to soothe the soreness of the throat and relax the muscle spasms that make you cough.

Echinacea

• Echinacea boosts the immune system, so its effects aren't about the cough, but they help the patient grow strong and healthy following the illness.

Goldenseal

• Goldenseal is high in vitamin C and works with the echinacea to replenish the spent immune system.

Garlic

• Garlic is used in cough medicine for its antibacterial, antiseptic, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties. Garlic is referred to as an expectorant, meaning that it helps dislodge the phlegm that's trapped in the respiratory system.

Althaea Root

• Althaea roots were the original source of marshmallows, before confectioners began using corn syrup and cornstarch. The marshmallow root, or Althaea, is an expectorant.