Coughing is a natural action of your body’s immune system.  We cough when there are something needs to be freed from our air passages.  It is the body’s way of eliminating mucous on from the chest and respiratory tract but can be painful and annoying.

Coughs usually appear suddenly in acute illnesses such as cold and flu and should disappear after a couple of weeks.  However chronic coughing can be caused by smoking, allergies and illnesses such as asthma.  Certain drugs such as aspirin or beta blockers can also cause coughs.

If you are struck down with a cough there are some natural remedies that can be of help and support your immune system throughout an acute episode:

• Mix aloe vera gel from the plant with honey and swallow a teaspoon.  This will sooth the respiratory tract and the aloe vera will help to prevent infection occurring
• Use eucalyptus oil or mint leaves in boiling water and inhale deeply.  Again this will sooth the esophagus and moistens a dry throat.
• Try drinking ginger tea to sooth a cough and help to boost the immune system
• To cure a dry cough add a pinch of turmeric to a teaspoon of honey
• Drink herbal tea with a pinch of cinnamon to stop a coughing fit
• And finally my favourite, mix a drop of whiskey, lemon, honey and hot water to make a soothing and enjoyable hot toddy!