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Cough syrup

10 proven ways to soothe a cough gently

A dry scratchy throat and a constant urge to cough are not only unpleasant but also tiring. Cough syrup can help by soothing the mucous membranes and reducing the irritation. Practical for its simple dosing and fast effect: relief is often felt after a few hours. But what really matters when choosing and using a syrup to achieve the best result?

Distinguish dry cough from productive cough

Pay attention to whether your cough is dry or productive. For dry, irritating coughs, cough suppressants are suitable, while expectorants help with productive coughs.

Use plant-based ingredients purposefully

A cough syrup made from herbs such as thyme, ivy, plantain or mallow can soothe the mucous membranes, reduce the cough reflex and support the body's defenses.

Use synthetic active ingredients consciously

Chemical agents like dextromethorphan, ambroxol or acetylcysteine act on the central nervous system or break up mucus. Be aware of possible side effects such as drowsiness or stomach problems.

Choose combination products with caution

Products that contain several active ingredients can be convenient but carry the risk of unnecessary effects and additional side effects. Check the ingredients carefully.

Observe the correct dosage

Follow the recommended doses and timing. An overdose can cause nausea, diarrhoea, dizziness or a racing heart.

Time the dose according to the type of cough

Take a cough suppressant before bedtime for an irritating dry cough to rest during the night. Expectorants, on the other hand, should not be taken immediately before sleep.

Drink enough fluids

Drink enough water or tea throughout the day. Fluids help loosen mucus and support the body's recovery.

Increase indoor humidity

A humid bedroom air makes breathing easier, soothes the cough reflex and protects the mucous membranes. A humidifier or a bowl of water on the radiator can help.

Limit the duration of use

Do not use cough syrup for several weeks. If the cough lasts longer than a week, consult a doctor.

Recipe for homemade thyme cough syrup

Boil 15 g of thyme in 200 ml of water. Let the decoction steep for 15 minutes, strain it and mix in 150 g of honey and the juice of one lemon. The syrup keeps in the fridge for up to a month and a teaspoon should be taken three times a day.

editorial.facts

Coughing is not just a nuisance but a natural defence mechanism by which the body clears mucus, pathogens and foreign particles from the airways.
Cough can be a symptom of over 300 different conditions, from colds to chronic respiratory diseases.
The medicinal plant marshmallow soothes irritated mucous membranes, forms a protective layer in the throat and thus relieves the cough reflex. It was already valued in ancient times.
The synthetic mucolytic bromhexine was developed from a plant-derived compound of the Indian lungwort and demonstrates how traditional herbal medicine has fed into modern cough syrups.