Coughs have never been so prevalent this year with so many people coming down with the dreaded lurgy. After getting over the initial cold and flu like symptoms, loads of people seem to be left with really nasty coughs that seem to last for weeks. Some of my students are not coming to class as they are worried about disturbing other students during (corpse pose) shavasana.
I have found a natural alternative to the regular cough mixtures that you buy over the counter at the local chemist. However, it is important to see your GP if your cough is persistent!!
Honey
Studies have shown that honey can work more efficiently to calm a cough than over-the-counter medicine. Honey helps to coat and sooth irritated mucous membranes due to an enzyme added by bees when they are harvesting honey. It also has natural antibacterial properties!
You will need
1 Tablespoon of organic, raw honey
Directions – take 1 tablespoon of honey 1 to 3 times a day
Thyme for Tea
Thyme has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years. Thyme has a natural anti-microbial property. Thyme helps to relax the muscles in the trachea and bronchi, therefore soothing coughs.
You will need
A handful of fresh thyme sprigs
8oz fresh water
Honey and or lemon – optional
Directions – Lightly bruise the thyme using a pestle and mortar and then place in a mug, pour in boiling water and steep for 10 to 15 minutes. Cover the mug while it steeps, this will trap all the goodness the tea has. Add a little honey or lemon or both to taste. Repeat this 3 times a day.
Liquorice Root Tea
If you have a mucous cough try liquorice root tea. Liquorice helps to loosen and thin mucous to help ease congestion. It is said that the enzyme in liquorice helps to regulate access of glucocorticoid to steroid receptors. This helps to slow the conversion of cortisol to cortisone. This increases the effect of cortisol and reduces inflammation.
Warning – If you are already on steroids or have problems with your kidneys, it is best to steer clear of liquorice root.
You will need
2 tablespoons of dried liquorice root. 8oz of fresh water
Directions – Pour boiled water over liquorice root in to a mug. Steep tea for 10 to 15 mins. Drink 2 cups a day.
Lemon, Honey and Ginger Tea (my personal favourite)
You have all the benefits of vitamin C from the lemon, then you have the honey to sooth irritated mucous membranes and lastly, you have ginger. Ginger treats symptoms of nausea, which I personally get when I am in the full throws of a cold. Ginger also has magnificent anti-inflammatory properties.
You will need
Half a thumb of ginger grated
The Juice of 1 Lemon
Honey to taste
Boiling water
Directions – squeeze the juice of 1 lemon and put into a mug, peel and grate the ginger and put into the mug, pour boiling water into the mug and add your honey to taste. Drink as much as you wish.
I wish you all a speedy recovery and remember to go and see your GP if your symptoms get worse.
