Made with all-natural, food-based ingredients that work to provide relief from coughing, a homemade cough syrup may be exactly what you need to kick your cough to the curb. Many people are quick to reach for over-the-counter remedies because they are quick and easy, yet they are anything but natural. To help ease your cough, we are providing you with an easy natural remedy that you can make with simple, healing ingredients.
What Are Coughs?
A cough is the body’s response to an irritant or infection in the body, and the act of coughing is the body’s way of getting rid of the irritant. Since there are many possible causes for coughing, including allergies, infections, and acid reflux, the best treatment will depend on the underlying cause. Before experimenting with any natural remedy, research the ingredients to make sure that your body agrees with them, or that they will not worsen your condition.
Pineapple Juice
Several studies have found that the enzyme, bromelain, in pineapples has strong anti-inflammatory properties that may reduce respiratory inflammation, specifically those that are linked to asthma and allergies. Pineapple juice helps to fight infections and destroy bacteria, and it is also rich in manganese, an essential mineral that is necessary for maintaining healthy connective tissues in the body. Pineapple even assists with metabolizing fats and carbohydrates, and increasing nerve function. For those with asthma, pineapple juice should not be the primary treatment; rather, it can be a supplemental treatment to help reduce symptoms.
Cayenne Pepper
According to Herbs for Health and Healing, cayenne pepper can help suppress the chemical that delivers pain messages from nerves in the affected area to the brain. This ability is attributed to the substance that gives cayenne pepper its spice. Cayenne also contains capsaicin, which works to decrease mucus production, thin mucus, and increase circulation.
Ginger
Known to help relieve the pain of a dry or asthmatic cough, ginger contains anti-inflammatory properties that may relax membranes in airways. When someone is experiencing a persistent cough, the common recommendation is to brew a cup of ginger tea, but ginger can also be beneficial for those with upset stomach or heartburn.
DIY Cough Syrup
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh pineapple juice
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon organic raw honey
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
- Add all of the ingredients to a blender and blitz until everything is well combined.
- Drink ¼ cup of this mixture three times a day until your symptoms go away.
