Most shop-bought cough remedies do very little. These are the traditional options that people actually use, and how to make them properly.
One teaspoon of dried thyme per cup, boiling water, covered, 10 minutes. Honey helps - but never give honey to children under one.
The one remedy with reasonable evidence behind it for adults. A spoon of honey in warm (not boiling) water with lemon juice, two or three times a day.
For a dry, tickly cough. Cold infusion works better than hot: steep in cold water for 4-6 hours.
A bowl of hot water with a towel over your head, five minutes. Helps the blocked nose more than the cough itself.
Cough lasting more than three weeks, coughing blood, breathlessness, or a fever that will not settle.
If you want the complete guide: the full guide (39 herbal home remedies with amounts and preparation).
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