What Drinks Are Good for Coughing?
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Coughing is a common symptom of colds, flu, allergies, and other respiratory conditions. While it’s your body’s way of clearing irritants and mucus from your airways, persistent coughing can be uncomfortable and exhausting. Staying hydrated is key to soothing a cough, but not all drinks are created equal. In this blog post, we’ll explore what drinks may provide some relief, including over-the-counter, herbal, natural, and traditional options.
We’ll also explain why each drink may be effective, so you can make informed choices for relief. Remember, it is important to always consult a medical professional for advice to ensure you’re addressing the root cause of your illness, especially if your sore throat persists or is accompanied by severe symptoms.
Why Hydration Matters for Coughing
When you’re coughing, your throat and airways can become dry and irritated. Drinking the right fluids can help:
Thin mucus, making it easier to expel.
Soothe throat irritation.
Keep your body hydrated, which supports overall recovery.
However, it’s important to remember that while some drinks may provide relief, they are not a substitute for professional medical advice. If your cough persists or worsens, always consult a healthcare professional.
Drinks That Are Good for Coughing
1. Warm Water with Honey
Honey is a natural cough suppressant and has antibacterial properties that can help soothe throat irritation.
Why It May Work: Honey coats the throat, reducing irritation and suppressing the cough reflex.
How to Use: Mix 1–2 teaspoons of honey in warm water or tea.
Expert Tip: Avoid giving honey to children under 1 year old due to the risk of botulism.
Source: Healthline - Honey for Cough
2. Herbal Teas
Herbal teas like chamomile, peppermint, and ginger are soothing and can help reduce coughing.
Why They May Work: Herbal teas provide warmth and hydration, while ingredients like peppermint (menthol) can act as natural decongestants.
How to Use: Steep your preferred herbal tea in hot water for 5–10 minutes. Add honey for extra benefits.
Expert Tip: Avoid caffeinated teas, as caffeine can dehydrate you.
Source: Healthline - Best Teas for Cough
3. Ginger Tea
Ginger has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help soothe a sore throat and suppress coughing.
Why It May Work: Ginger reduces inflammation in the throat and airways, easing irritation.
How to Use: Slice fresh ginger root and steep it in hot water. Add honey or lemon for extra flavor.
Expert Tip: Ginger can also help with nausea, making it a great remedy for flu-related symptoms.
Source: National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health - Ginger
4. Warm Broth or Soup
Broth-based soups, such as chicken soup, are hydrating and provide essential nutrients.
Why It May Work: The warmth of the broth can soothe the throat, while the steam helps clear nasal congestion.
How to Use: Sip warm broth or soup throughout the day.
Expert Tip: Add garlic or turmeric for added anti-inflammatory benefits.
Source: Mayo Clinic - Chicken Soup for Colds
5. Lemon Water
Lemons are rich in vitamin C, which can boost your immune system and help fight infections.
Why It May Work: The acidity of lemon juice can break up mucus, while vitamin C supports immune function.
How to Use: Mix the juice of half a lemon with warm water and honey.
Expert Tip: Avoid drinking lemon juice straight, as its acidity can irritate the throat.
Source: WebMD - Lemon for Cough
6. Turmeric Milk (Golden Milk)
Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Why It May Work: Turmeric reduces inflammation in the throat and airways, while warm milk soothes irritation.
How to Use: Mix 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder in warm milk. Add honey for sweetness.
Expert Tip: Use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk if dairy worsens mucus production.
Source: Medical News Today - Turmeric for Cough
7. Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) Drink
Apple cider vinegar has antibacterial properties and can help break up mucus.
Why It May Work: ACV thins mucus, making it easier to expel, and supports immune function.
How to Use: Mix 1–2 tablespoons of ACV in a glass of warm water. Add honey for taste.
Expert Tip: Always dilute ACV to avoid damaging your tooth enamel or throat lining.
Source: Healthline - Apple Cider Vinegar for Cough
8. Marshmallow Root Tea
Marshmallow root has been used for centuries to soothe sore throats and reduce coughing.
Why It May Work: Marshmallow root forms a protective coating over the throat, reducing irritation.
How to Use: Steep marshmallow root in hot water to make tea. Drink 2–3 times daily.
Expert Tip: Marshmallow root may interact with certain medications, so consult your doctor before use.
Source: National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health - Marshmallow Root
9. Coconut Water
Coconut water is rich in electrolytes, which help keep you hydrated.
Why It May Work: Proper hydration thins mucus and supports overall recovery.
How to Use: Drink coconut water throughout the day.
Expert Tip: Choose unsweetened coconut water to avoid excess sugar.
Source: Healthline - Coconut Water Benefits
10. Over-the-Counter Cough Syrups
Over-the-counter (OTC) cough syrups can provide temporary relief for persistent coughs.
Why They May Work: Cough syrups contain active ingredients like dextromethorphan (a cough suppressant) or guaifenesin (an expectorant) to reduce coughing or thin mucus.
How to Use: Follow the dosage instructions on the packaging.
Expert Tip: Avoid giving cough syrup to children under 6 years old without consulting a doctor.
Source: Mayo Clinic - Cough Syrup Guide
Drinks to Avoid When Coughing
While some drinks can soothe a cough, others can worsen irritation or dehydration. Avoid:
Alcohol: Dehydrates the body and irritates the throat.
Caffeinated Beverages: Can lead to dehydration.
Citrus Juices: High acidity can irritate the throat.
Carbonated Drinks: Bubbles can cause discomfort.
Sugary Drinks: Can suppress the immune system and worsen inflammation.
Source: Cleveland Clinic - Sore Throat Remedies
When to See a Doctor
While these drinks can provide relief for mild coughs, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional if:
Your cough lasts more than 3 weeks.
You experience difficulty breathing, chest pain, or coughing up blood.
You have a high fever, rash, or swollen lymph nodes.
You suspect a bacterial infection, such as pneumonia or whooping cough.
Source: American Lung Association - When to See a Doctor for a Cough
Conclusion
Coughing can be uncomfortable, but the right drinks can provide much-needed relief. From warm water with honey and herbal teas to ginger tea and turmeric milk, there are plenty of options that may soothe your throat. Over-the-counter cough syrups can also help, but they should be used sparingly and as directed.
Remember, while these remedies can ease symptoms, they are not a substitute for professional medical care. If your cough persists or is accompanied by severe symptoms, always consult a healthcare professional to ensure you’re addressing the root cause of your illness.
References:
1. Healthline - Honey for Cough
2. Healthline - Best Teas for Cough
3. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health - Ginger
4. Mayo Clinic - Chicken Soup for Colds
5. WebMD - Lemon for Cough
6. Medical News Today - Turmeric for Cough
7. Healthline - Apple Cider Vinegar for Cough
8. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health - Marshmallow Root
9. Healthline - Coconut Water Benefits
10. Mayo Clinic - Cough Syrup Guide
11. Cleveland Clinic - Sore Throat Remedies
12. American Lung Association - When to See a Doctor for a Cough
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