Cough

Coughs are often common symptoms caused by many factors. It can result from a bacterial or viral spread, or can be due to an underlying condition. The seriousness of a cough depends on the amount and color of sputum, the frequency and the duration of the coughing episodes. Cough syrups are abundantly available in the market today. But the controversy of their effectiveness troubles a lot of consumers. Understandably, most cough syrups do have sedative side effects that can affect your daily activities. Although the drug provides coughing relief, the use of these over-the-counter drugs should be observed carefully especially when given to children.

Having a Cough

Cough medications come in different classes: antitussiives, expectorants, mucolytics, and suppressants. Antitussives are specially formulated to prevent the coughing action. Expectorants contribute to the expulsion of phlegm from the airway passages. Mucolytics are intended to unclog the respiratory passages by “melting” the mucus and phlegm. Suppressants act on coughs by suppressing the coughing reflex.

A natural way to treat common coughs is to take herbal meds. Although some people frown on its use, studies and testimonials from other users have found herbal medicine effective for the treatment and relief of coughing episodes. Still, precaution should be practiced, and you should get advice from medical experts to check if you bear allergies to these herbs. Here are the commonly used herbs for coughs:

Herb Description, Treatment  & Procedures
Alagaw
(Premna odorata) The alagaw is a herbal plant from the Philippines that is used to loosen phlegm and relieve coughs. Fresh alagaw leaves with sugar for taste are boiled in water. Drinking this concoction will relieve coughing.
Echinacea
(Echinacea angustifolia/E. pallida/E. purpurea) This is a highly recommendable herb for colds, cough and flu especially for those who reside in North America and Europe. This herb alleviates cough in tincture form.
Eucalyptus
(Eucalyptus globules) The essential oil found in eucalyptus acts to loosen the phlegm within the air passages. Inhaling eucalyptus vapors can help treat coughs. It is recommended to use fresh leaves in teas or gargles to soothe irritated throats brought by coughs. Also, ointments containing this herb can be applied to chest area to relieve congestion.
Lagundi
(Vitex negundo L) Lagundi is recognized as an effective expectorant. It is a common herbal plant found in the Philippines. The dried or fresh lagundi leaves are boiled. Drinking this concoction will yield cough and asthma relief.

Links for Further Cough Herbal Study
Philippine Herbs
1. Herbal Page
2. Philippine Herbs
3. Living in the Philippines

International Herbs
1. Herbal Remedies Info
2. Henriette’s Herbal Page

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