Phlegm Cough Home Remedies

Coughing can be a highly unwanted symptom of a cold. After a while of trying to break up the congestion by coughing, the throat can become irritated and the chest can be sore from the violent actions. Fortunately, there are some phlegm cough home remedies that can soothe the throat and help alleviate the urges to cough.

Steam

Inhaling the steam from a vaporizer or boiling pot of water will break up the phlegm and soothe the throat. Cover your head with a towel to trap in most of the steam so it can be breathed in. Adding some eucalyptus to the water may also be effective in reducing the mucus lining the throat. An alternative way to create steam is by taking a hot shower, getting the water warm enough to fog up the bathroom mirror.

Warm Liquids

Consuming warm water and other liquids frequently is an effective phlegm cough home remedy. These drinks will not only keep you hydrated during your cold, but will loosen the mucus, alleviating your cough.

Elevation

Keeping your head elevated while sick can assist in getting rid of a phlegm cough. Prop yourself up on three to four pillows when going to bed, or raise the head of the bed by placing blocks under the legs of the headboard. This will allow the mucus to drain from your throat, and will relieve the "tickle" you feel that makes you want to cough.

Hot Packs

Applying hot packs to your throat and chest can help loosen the congestion and relieve the need to cough up phlegm. Be sure to wrap the pack in one or two towels before applying to skin, as they can get very hot. Using these a few times a day while sick will help relieve you of the coughing problem.

Herbal Teas

There are many herbs that will help remedy a phlegm cough. Drinking warm tea with a bit of peppermint, thyme, or eucalyptus added can provide virtually instant relief for your coughing problems.

Avoid Smoking

Smoking can be the cause of the mucus lining the throat. Therefore, kicking the habit can eliminate the production of phlegm and the need to cough to break it up and get it out of the throat. Second-hand smoke should also be avoided when possible.

Avoid Mucus Causing Foods

When you are sick, consuming certain foods can promote the production of phlegm, making the urge to cough worse. These include dairy products, fried foods and meats. Avoid these when you have a cold to help prevent the creation of phlegm coughs.

References

• Congested Coughs
• Chest Congestion and Coughing Remedies