Home Remedies for Cough with Phlegm

Coughing up phlegm, also known as a productive cough, is a common symptom that usually accompanies respiratory infections such as the common cold, flu, bronchitis, or pneumonia. Although coughing up phlegm is the body's natural response to clear the airways, it can be uncomfortable and irritating. Fortunately, there are numerous natural remedies that can relieve this type of cough, helping the body to eliminate excess mucus effectively.

What is a cough with phlegm?

Before we dive into the remedies, it's important to understand what a phlegmy cough is and why it occurs. A cough is the body's defense mechanism to clear the airways when substances like mucus, dust, or allergens build up. In the case of a productive cough, the body is trying to expel excess mucus or phlegm from the lungs and airways.

Phlegm is a thick mucus that the body produces when there is inflammation or infection in the respiratory system. It can vary in color and consistency depending on the underlying cause, being green or yellow in cases of bacterial infection, or lighter in the case of a viral infection or allergy.

Common causes of coughing up phlegm

1. Respiratory infections : Most cases of coughing up phlegm are the result of infections such as the common cold, flu, or bronchitis. These infections cause inflammation in the airways, which in turn stimulates mucus production.

2. Allergies : Allergies to substances such as dust, pollen or mites can cause an overproduction of mucus, leading to coughing up phlegm.

3. Pollutants and toxins : Smoking or exposure to environmental pollutants can also irritate the airways and trigger phlegm production. In chronic smokers, this can lead to a condition known as chronic bronchitis.

4. Chronic lung diseases : Conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and cystic fibrosis can cause persistent phlegm production.

Natural remedies for cough with phlegm

1. Steam and humidification

One of the most effective methods for relieving a cough with phlegm is to inhale steam. Steam helps to loosen mucus, making it easier to expel from the body.

How to do it :

• Fill a container with hot water and place it on a table.
• Cover your head with a towel and place your face over the bowl, inhaling the steam slowly for 10-15 minutes.
• For an additional effect, you can add a few drops of eucalyptus or mint essential oil, which have decongestant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Additionally, using a humidifier in the bedroom can keep the air moist and reduce airway irritation, making breathing easier and reducing nighttime coughing.

2. Honey and lemon

Honey is a popular cough remedy, and its effectiveness is backed by science. It has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and soothing properties that can help reduce irritation in the throat. Lemon, on the other hand, is rich in vitamin C and can strengthen the immune system, helping the body fight off the underlying infection.

How to do it :

• Mix a tablespoon of honey with the juice of half a lemon in a cup of hot water or tea.
• Drink this mixture 2-3 times a day to soothe your throat and help dissolve phlegm.

3. Gargling with salt water

Salt water gargling is another home remedy that can help reduce the buildup of phlegm in your throat. Salt water acts as a natural decongestant and can reduce inflammation in your throat.

How to do it :

• Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water.
• Gargle with this solution for 30 seconds and then spit it out.
• Repeat the process 2-3 times a day.

4. Ginger

Ginger is a root with powerful anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help reduce coughing and phlegm production. It also acts as a natural expectorant, helping to remove mucus from the airways.

How to do it :

• Make a ginger infusion by chopping up a fresh piece of ginger root and adding it to a cup of hot water.
• Let it sit for 10 minutes and then strain the mixture.
• Add honey and lemon if desired and drink 2-3 times a day.

5. Turmeric

Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. In traditional medicine, turmeric has been used to treat respiratory problems and reduce phlegm production.

How to do it :

• Mix a teaspoon of turmeric powder in a glass of hot milk.
• Drink this mixture before bed to help clear your airways and reduce coughing.

6. Thyme infusion

Thyme is an herb with antiseptic and expectorant properties that can help relieve coughs and phlegm buildup. It contains compounds that relax the muscles in the airways and reduce inflammation.

How to do it :

• Boil a teaspoon of dried thyme in a cup of water for 10 minutes.
• Strain the infusion and drink 2-3 times a day to reduce coughing.

7. Onion

Onion has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can be helpful in reducing coughing up phlegm. It also helps loosen mucus in the lungs, making it easier to expel.

How to do it :

• Cut an onion into slices and mix it with honey.
• Let the mixture sit for several hours until a syrup forms.
• Take a spoonful of this syrup several times a day to reduce coughing.

8. Licorice root

Licorice is known for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, making it an excellent remedy for coughs and congestion.

How to do it :

• You can make an infusion of licorice root or take it in syrup form.
• Its prolonged use is not recommended, especially in people with hypertension, since licorice can increase blood pressure.

Lifestyle changes

In addition to the home remedies mentioned above, making some lifestyle changes can be key to improving the symptoms of coughing up phlegm.

1. Hydrate properly

Drinking enough water is essential to help the body loosen and eliminate phlegm. Dehydration can thicken mucus, making it harder to expel.

• Try to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day.
• You can supplement with herbal teas and clear broths to increase your fluid intake.

2. Avoid irritants

Cigarette smoke, household chemicals, and other irritants can make a cough with phlegm worse. If you smoke, consider quitting, as tobacco increases mucus production and damages your airways.

3. Maintain a balanced diet

A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, protein, and anti-inflammatory foods can strengthen the immune system and help the body fight infections that cause coughing up phlegm.

When to see a doctor?

Although coughing up phlegm usually improves with time and home remedies, there are situations when it is important to seek medical attention. See a doctor if:

• The cough lasts more than three weeks.
• Phlegm is dark yellow, green, or bloody.
• You have a high fever or difficulty breathing.
• You experience chest pain.