How to treat a cough

Most people find that having to deal with a cough whether from the flu, or a cold, can be both aggravating, and uncomfortable.Whether you are well enough to go about your day, or trying to sleep at night you can find yourself sidelined from constant coughing. Medications to relieve coughing have become a several billion dollar industry as sick people try to find a way to calm their hacking.Ironically, studies have shown that there is very little evidence that these cough medicines are effective at easing symptoms. This is because they contain no ingredients that are capable of treating the underlying cause, and instead they make a vain attempt to only mask the symptoms. In addition, some studies report that cough medications besides being ineffective, show that they are dangerous to young children. Serious health conditions that were reported in young children ranged from rapid heart beat to death. Equally serious side effects have been reported by adult users, as well.The bottom line is that cough medicines may slightly reduce high temperature, and mucus production, but these benefits are offset by the fact that they inhibit the body's ability to defend against the virus that is causing the cough.

Experts agree that the best medicine against developing a cough is prevention.You can put a stop to viruses before symptoms even begin to develop, by building a strong immune system. A major component to building a strong immune system is what we eat. We when consume large amounts of processed and "junk" foods, we weaken the immune system, and allow viruses to infiltrate and overcome bodily defenses. One of the major key's to a strong immune system is to eat a balanced diet, which is largely composed of vegetables and fruits, whole grain products, and should include some servings of poultry, and fish. Another essential ingredient to a strong immune system is getting adequate rest. Numerous studies have shown that people who get a good night's sleep (repeatedly) have been shown to have a much stronger immune system. Regular exercise has also been shown to help increase the strength of the immune system.

If you do develop a cough from the flu or a cold there are some very effective homeopathic and herbal remedies available. These include:

• Lemon balm tea-This is effective at alkalinizing the body which promotes good health. There is no limit on this type of tea and it can be taken as often as needed.


• Hyssop tea-This is an expectorant when taken cold and works as a decongestant when taken hot.


• Licorice root tea-This is effective at relieving asthma like symptoms and congestion.


• Eucalyptus-This helps relieve stuffy nasal passages and clogged bronchial tubes.


• Ginger-This herb is good for aches, nausea and inflammation.


• Ginseng-This helps increase energy, and boost the immune system.

It is also important to remember that coughs due to colds will thrive in dry environments, so it is a good idea to use a humidifier. The patient should also drink plenty of liquids, such as lemon, and honey water (It is important to remember that honey should only be used for children over 2 years of age), chicken broth, naturally sweetened fruit juice, and purified water. Saline spray is also effective at loosening nasal congestion. A combination of Vitamin C, zinc and Echinacea can be helpful in speeding up recovery time. Vitamin A and acidophilus can also be taken together to help boost the immune system, and fight the underlying cause of the cough. A final note: it can be a good idea to avoid mucus causing foods like dairy products until the cough has subsided.