Natural Cough Medicine

Natural cough medicines may use foods and supplements or vaporized water to relieve the symptoms and irritation from coughing. Using natural cough medicines requires a few ingredients that can be obtained at grocery or health food stores, and equipment that is commonly available at discount or baby supply stores. Natural cough medicines cause few side effects, although some types should not be given to infants.

Function

The purpose of natural cough medicine is to avoid the chemicals and drugs found in prescription and over-the-counter cough medicine, as well as prevent interactions that traditional cough medicines may cause when used with other medications.

Red Clover

According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, red clover is a supplement that can be taken to relieve coughs related to bronchitis and whooping cough.

Honey

According to the Mayo Clinic, honey used on its own or mixed with warm water or tea can relieve coughs caused by colds (see Resources below).

Lemon

Lemon mixed with warm water or added to hot tea can relieve both coughing and sore throats, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Humidity

Humidity increased by using a warm or cold mist humidifier can relieve coughing and scratchy throats, but humidifiers must be cleaned daily to avoid mold growth, which can make coughing and congestion worse.

Benefits

The ingredients used in natural cough medicine, such as lemon and honey, are easily obtained and are inexpensive. When used during the dry months of the year, humidifiers may also reduce static electricity and dryness of the skin.

Warning

Due to the risk of botulism, babies under the age of 12 months should not be given honey. A cough that lasts for more than 3 weeks could be serious and should be checked by a doctor.