What is Cough?
A cough is a reaction to clear the airways of mucus, phlegm, dust, smoke or a foreign body. Whenever there is an obstruction or inflammation in the throat or in the upper airways, the brain thinks it to be a foreign object and tries to relieve it by coughing. Continuous coughing for more than two weeks needs medical attention.
Common Causes of Cough
- Viral infection
- Common cold
- Flu
- Smoking
Other serious causes may include:
- Asthma
- Bronchitis
- Whooping cough
- Tuberculosis
- Pneumonia
- Clot in the lung
- Cancer of the lung
Home Remedies for Cough
Tip 1:
Take 3 peppercorns with a pinch of black cumin seeds (shah jeera) and a pinch of salt.
Tip 2:
3-5 drops of clove oil mixed with a clove of crushed garlic and ½ tsp honey helps soothe the throat.
Tip 3:
In a cup of boiling water add 1 tsp turmeric powder and 1 tsp carom seeds (ajwain). Boil till half. Add 1 tsp of honey and have 2 times a day.
Tip 4:
50 gm of sugar candy (mishri) with 50 gm pepper powder. Mix with pure ghee to make small pellets. Take 3-4 times a day.
For Infants
Tip 1:
1 tsp of holy basil leaves mixed with honey.
Tip 2:
Some saffron strands made into a paste with one betel leaf is to be applied on the infant's forehead and soles of the feet.
