14 family-friendly home remedies for coughs

Key Points

• Coughing is a natural reflex that helps clear irritants and mucus from your airways. 
• Remember, not all remedies will work the same for everyone.
• Always seek medical advice if you are on other medications or have underlying medical conditions.

We can probably all agree that coughing is no fun, but it does serve a purpose. It’s one of your body’s many basic defence mechanisms and can range from mildly annoying to more serious. While a persistent cough should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional, there are several home remedies that may provide you with some relief. 

In this article, we list 14 family-friendly home remedies for coughs that may help ease your discomfort, along with some expert tips from Registered Pharmacist, Soumya Pandya.

14 effective home remedies for coughs that anyone can try 

Coughing is a natural reflex that helps clear irritants and mucus from your airways. But when it becomes persistent and uncomfortable, it’s time to seek relief. Here are 14 home remedies that may offer some comfort:

1. Honey: This amber elixir offers natural antibacterial properties, which may help to soothe a sore throat and reduce coughing. 
2. Turmeric: The anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric may help to reduce irritation in the throat and reduce coughing.
3. Ginger: Ginger is commonly known for its antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties and may have the ability to relieve coughs and sore throats by helping to relax your airways.
4. Peppermint: Peppermint is often used in aromatherapy and may help when treating coughs and colds. 
5. Cloves/Cardamom: These spices have been found to have antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties which may be helpful in treating a cough.
6. Eucalyptus: Eucalyptus oil may offer antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to ease cough symptoms.
7. Thyme: Thyme has been found to have antibacterial properties, which may help to reduce symptoms of a cough or sore throat. 
8. Marshmallow root: Marshmallow root may help to soothe irritated throats and reduce coughing. 
9. Pineapple: The nutrients found in pineapple juice may have the capacity to alleviate the symptoms of your cough.
10. Slippery elm: Slippery elm has traditionally been used to treat a cough. More research is required in this area. 
11. Garlic: Garlic has antibacterial and antiviral properties, which may help to ease symptoms of a cough or cold. 
12. Liquorice root: The properties of liquorice root may help to clear your airways and may reduce your cough.
13. Holy basil: Holy basil is an aromatic herb with many potential therapeutic benefits that may help to alleviate cough symptoms.
14. Marjoram: Marjoram leaves are another herb that may have antimicrobial properties and may help to relieve a cough. 

Evidence shows there is no benefit in taking cough syrups

Cough remedies for kids: do cough syrups work? 

An acute cough can be a common and troublesome symptom in adults and children suffering from upper respiratory tract infections. However as Soumya shares, there has been no benefit found in using cough syrups. Importantly, cough syrups are not recommended for children under six. 

“It depends on what has caused the cough, what kind of cough it is and what the child’s age is,” Soumya says. “If anything, the risk may significantly outweigh the benefits.”

You may find that your child has regular coughs or colds. This is because their immune systems are still growing and developing.

14 home remedies for coughs include ginger, honey, peppermint and garlic

What should people be aware of when it comes to home remedies for coughs? 

When looking for home remedies for coughs, there are some important considerations to keep in mind:

• Consult a healthcare professional if you are on other medications or have underlying medical conditions.
• Remember that not all remedies work the same for everyone, and individual responses may vary.
• Be cautious of using honey for children under one year of age.

For any persistent cough, it’s best to seek advice from a healthcare professional

Stay well and seek advice

A short-term cough due to a viral infection can usually be treated by supporting your immune system, eating plenty of fruit and vegetables for adequate vitamins and nutrients and getting plenty of rest. While these home remedies for coughs may provide relief, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional if you or your children are unwell with a persistent cough. 

Related:

• What are the best vitamins for tiredness and lack of energy?
• Stress and immune system health
• Kids and naps – what’s normal?

Soumya Pandya is a Registered Pharmacist who is passionate about finding innovative ways to allow easy and safe access to healthcare for all Australians. Soumya’s goal is to help people better their health journey through education and tools that allow the individual to take a holistic approach to their health. 

Reviewed by the Healthylife health experts November 2023