To stop coughing, you can try several effective methods and home remedies:
- Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids such as water, warm tea, or broth. This helps soothe the throat and thin mucus, making it easier to clear from your airways
- Use honey , especially a spoonful before bedtime, to coat and soothe an irritated throat. Honey has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties that can reduce coughing. Avoid giving honey to children under 1 year old due to botulism risk
- Try herbal teas like thyme, chamomile, peppermint, or ginger tea. These have soothing, anti-inflammatory effects and can reduce cough reflex irritation
- Gargle with warm salt water to reduce throat inflammation and loosen mucus. Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water, gargle, and spit out several times a day
- Inhale steam or use a humidifier to keep the air moist and soothe dry, irritated airways. Taking a hot shower and breathing in the steam can help relieve cough symptoms
- Practice the stop-cough technique : At the first sign of a tickle, cover your mouth, swallow once, hold your breath for a few seconds, then breathe slowly and smoothly. This can reduce the cough reflex and prevent worsening irritation
- Avoid irritants such as smoke and dry air, which can exacerbate coughing
- Elevate your head while sleeping to prevent mucus pooling and reduce coughing at night, especially if acid reflux is a factor
If your cough persists for more than a few weeks, is severe, or accompanied by other symptoms, consult a healthcare provider to identify any underlying causes such as asthma, GERD, or infections that may require specific treatment
. Over-the-counter cough medicines may provide temporary relief but are generally not recommended for young children and may not address the underlying cause
. These approaches combined can help you stop or reduce coughing naturally and safely.
