Flu season seems to be hitting us here again, and if you or those around you are afflicted by a persistent cough, it’s important to see a doctor and get medication. But you can also help speed up recovery via natural remedies – here are the best five foods you should eat to relieve it.
Text: Sean Tan / Photo: 123rf.com
READ MORE:
This Vitamin Can Prevent Colds And Flus (And It’s Not Vitamin C!)
6 Ways To Get Yourself To Drink More Water Everyday
5 Fruits And Vegetables Every Woman Needs To Eat
This is one of the best remedies for cough and throat relief that nature can offer. Honey is packed with antioxidants to combat infections and is also a rich demulcent that helps coat and soothe irritated mucous membranes in the throat.
This is a wonder food when it comes to helping cure ailments like colds and coughs. It boosts your immune system so you recover faster and has anti-bacterial properties to soothe a sore throat and reduce inflammation. So take lots of foods with garlic!
The cooling effect of peppermint helps to soothe dry coughs and also helps to clear up the nasal passages. Steep some peppermint leaves in hot water or tea and drink it to combat the non-stop hacking.
Gargling salt water is a great way to relieve an itchy and sore throat as the salt helps reduce swelling and ease discomfort. Simply mix 1/4 to 1/2 tsp with a glass of water, and gargle for about 15 secs. Spit and repeat. Do this every 3 to 4 hours in the day.
Known for its healing properties, chamomile tea is a pain reliever and helps alleviate inflammation. A 2003 study published in the Journal of Herbal Pharmacotherapy discovered that chamomile tea was effective for reducing cough frequency and cough intensity in asthmatic patients.