Herbal Remedies for Coughs: What Actually Helps

Most cough remedies sold in shops do very little. The herbs below are the ones traditionally used for coughs and colds - as teas, syrups and steam inhalations.

Thyme

Traditionally used as a tea for coughs, and the base of the old-fashioned cough syrup. One teaspoon of dried herb per cup, covered, steeped 10 minutes.

Marshmallow root

Soothing for a dry, tickly cough. Usually taken as a cold infusion - steep in cold water for 4-6 hours, which draws out the mucilage hot water destroys.

Liquorice root

A classic for sore throats. Not for people with high blood pressure or heart problems - it raises it.

Elderberry

Popular through cold season, usually as a syrup. Cook the berries - raw ones are not safe.

Peppermint

Helps with the blocked nose that comes with a cold more than the cough itself.

How to make a simple thyme tea

Pour boiling water over a teaspoon of dried thyme, cover, steep 10 minutes, strain. Honey helps - but never give honey to children under one.

Common questions

What herbs are good for a cough?

Thyme, marshmallow root, liquorice root, elderberry and peppermint are the traditional choices. Thyme as a tea is the most common.

How do you make thyme tea for a cough?

One teaspoon of dried thyme per cup of boiling water, covered, steeped for 10 minutes, then strained. Honey can be added for adults and children over one.

Is marshmallow root better hot or cold?

Cold. A cold infusion for 4-6 hours draws out the soothing mucilage that hot water destroys.

If you want the complete guide: the full set of 39 herbal home remedies (amounts, preparation, storage).

Disclosure: the link above is an affiliate link. We may earn a commission if you buy through it, at no extra cost to you.