Whooping cough, or Pertussis, is making a comeback. After largely being contained through vaccination, many countries are reporting resurgent outbreaks owing to faltering vaccination schedules, loss of immunity, and bacterial strain evolution.
Symptoms of whooping cough, a contagious breathing sickness, include bouts of coughing fits followed by a high-pitched regaining of breath, or “whoop.” Antibiotics are often given to kill the bacteria — especially during the early stages — but there are some natural remedies that help in quick recovery.
Says Dr Asha Mehra, holistic health expert at Greenleaf Wellness Centre, "Natural remedies will never replace antibiotics but they can help keep symptoms in check and support immunity and healing — especially during the long recovery phase."
8 home remedies to cure whooping cough:
Also read | Lung disease and chronic morning cough, breathlessness: Here's why should see a doctor
Honey has been used for centuries to treat cough because it helps soothe the throat and has natural antibacterial properties. When added to lemon, high in vitamin C, the combination promotes immunity and eases throat irritation.
How to make it: Combine 1 tablespoon of raw honey and 1 teaspoon of fresh lemon juice. Take 2–3 times a day.
Caution: Honey should never be infinitive to children until the age of 1.
Ginger has excellent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It relieves chest congestion and calms the irritated airways.
How to make it: Simmer some slices of fresh ginger in water, strain, and drink ginger tea. Add honey for enhanced benefits.
3. Steam Inhalation with Essential Oils
You can use steam since it helps open air pathways and loosen mucus. You can also add some beneficial oils such as eucalyptus, peppermint, or tea tree oil to boost the antibacterial and soothing effects.
How to take it: Inhale the vapours from a bowl of warm water with 2–3 drops of essential oil. Wrap a towel round the face to hold the steam in.
4. Saltwater Gargle
Gargling with warm saltwater helps to soothe the inflamed lining of the throat and clears mucus and bacteria from the throat.
How to take it: Take half teaspoon of salt dissolved in a glass of lukewarm water. Gargle 2–3 times daily.
5. Turmeric Milk
Curcumin, a strong anti-inflammatory compound, is found in turmeric. A glass of warm milk with turmeric (known as “golden milk”) before sleeping may help reduce the cough during the night.
How to make it: Mix turmeric ½ teaspoon in one glass hot milk. Add a bit of honey, if needed, for sweetness.
6. Rest and Hydration
Rest is one of the most potent natural cures. It takes time and energy for your body to heal from whooping cough, too; it can linger for weeks. Staying hydrated will thin your mucus, while the coughing fits themselves can become dehydrating.
How to take it: Hydrate with water, herbal teas, broths, and other electrolyte-rich fluids.
7. Thyme Infusion
Thyme is another excellent home remedy for treating cough as it acts as a natural expectorant which clears the lungs by expelling mucus and relieves spasmodic cough.
How to make it: Combine dried thyme and hot/boiling water, cover it, and allow to steep for 10 minutes. Strain and sip twice daily.
8. Boost Immunity with Probiotics
You can boost your immunity with probiotic-rich foods such as yoghurt, kefir or fermented vegetables. A varied gut is the foundation of a robust immune system, especially essential during an infection.
Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.
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