The flu, common cold, asthma, cigarette smoke exposure, and other conditions can all cause a dry cough. Home remedies such as honey, peppermint, and air purifiers may be beneficial. A dry cough is also known as an unproductive cough. Dry coughs, unlike productive wet coughs, do not clear mucus, phlegm, or irritants from the lungs or nasal passages.

Dry coughs can last for weeks after having a cold or the flu. They can also be caused by a variety of illnesses, including postnasal drip, asthma, and acid reflux (GERD). They could also be a long-term adverse effect of exposure to environmental contaminants like cigarette smoke. There are several therapeutic therapies available to alleviate them, but at-home cures can be equally beneficial in many circumstances.

Herbs and Supplements

• Honey: Honey contains antimicrobial characteristics and can help coat the throat, reducing inflammation. One study discovered that honey was more effective than dextromethorphan, a cough suppressant component, in reducing bothersome bouts of overnight coughing in youngsters. You can take honey by the teaspoon several times per day, or mix it with tea or warm water to consume.

• Turmeric: Curcumin, a component of turmeric, may have antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. It might also be beneficial for several ailments, such as a dry cough. When curcumin is mixed with black pepper, it enters the bloodstream more efficiently. One teaspoon of turmeric and one-eighth teaspoon of black pepper can be used with cold orange juice or any other beverage. It can also be made into hot tea.

• Ginger: It has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It has also enhanced immune response and reduced pain and suffering. Teas often include ginger. Steep the sliced or peeled root in warm water to make ginger tea.

• Marshmallow root: It is a component of cough lozenges and syrups that are used to treat dry coughs. It is an effective treatment for dry cough pain and sore throats.

• Peppermint: It contains menthol, which helps to numb nerve endings in the throat that become inflamed while coughing. This may reduce pain and the need to cough. It also helps with congestion and has antibacterial and antiviral qualities.

• Masala chai tea: Dry coughs and sore throats are treated with this tea. Cardamom and cloves are two of the many antioxidants included in masala chai.

• Capsaicin: It has been shown that the compound capsaicin, which is present in chilli peppers, relieves persistent coughing. In addition to being consumed as capsules, capsaicin can also be made into tea by mixing warm water with a spicy cayenne sauce.

• Aromatherapy with eucalyptus: Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils to relax and heal. Eucalyptus essential oil may relieve dry coughs by acting as a decongestant. Try using eucalyptus in a diffuser, spritzer, or inhaler. Add a few drops to a bowl of boiling water and inhale the steam.

• Humidifier: A dry cough might get worse in dry air. It can help to some extent by adding moisture to the air. They help to open up the sinuses, which is useful for persistent postnasal drip.

• Air purifier: You can use it to get rid of smoke and dust-related airborne allergies. They reduce dander and pollen allergens. Breathing fresh air can help reduce throat discomfort and the need to cough, whether environmental pollution or an underlying illness is the source of your cough.

• Gargle with salt water: It has the potential to alleviate the discomfort and intensity associated with a dry cough. Salt water can also help eliminate bacteria from the mouth and throat. To achieve this, dissolve one teaspoon of salt in a large glass of warm water. Then, gargle several times per day.

• Cough drops: Cough drops are medicinal lozenges that help to lubricate and soothe sore throat tissues. Their constituents vary, as do their actions. Some cough drops contain menthol, a numbing ingredient that relieves the urge to cough.

When to See a Doctor

Dry coughs can be debilitating and irritating, and they can linger for months. Usually, dry coughs go away on their own. But, if you experience any other symptoms in addition to your cough, consult your physician. Wheezing, chest pain, back pain, fever, chills, and trouble breathing or catching your breath are a few of them.

Conclusion

Dry coughs have a variety of long-term reasons. Several really efficient home remedies can help with your cough. See your doctor if your cough gets worse over time or if it doesn't go away in two months.

*it is important to use herbs and supplements moderately, as excessive usage may lead to unintended side effects.