Flowers are an integral part of every culture around the world as their vibrant colors and sweet fragrances bring joy to all. However, the true value of flowers extends far beyond color and scent, as many of them contain healing properties that address a wide range of health issues, including coughs. For instance, a steaming cup of tea made from lavender, chamomile, or hibiscus flowers can bring relief from a persistent cough. Of course, there are different types of coughs, and it’s important to know what kind of cough you have because some remedies are better suited for certain types of coughs compared to others.
Coughs can be divided into two broad categories – wet and dry. A wet cough brings up mucus and is more common with respiratory infections, while a dry cough produces a hacking sound without any mucus. A dry cough is most often caused by irritants, allergies, asthma, and acid reflux. Understanding your type of cough and the underlying causes can help to soothe your cough as well as pick the right home remedies for a cough.
5 Flower-Based Remedies That Soothe Coughs and Boost Lung Health
Steam with Eucalyptus Flowers to Relieve Chest Tightness and Congestion
The leaves and flowers of the eucalyptus plant contain a compound called cineole, which is also the main constituent of eucalyptus oil. This compound thins mucus so that it can be expelled easily, which is why it is good for wet coughs. Steaming is a simple but effective way to get these compounds into your respiratory tract and deep within your lungs. Put a handful of the flowers in a pot of hot water and cover your head with a towel to trap the rising steam. Breathe deeply to clear your airways. According to experts, eucalyptus is one of several important healing plants to always have on hand.
Lavender Soak to Reduce Throat Swelling
Lavender is most commonly used as a sleep aid, but it can also be used for dry coughs as it helps to soothe inflamed airways. Add lavender flowers to your bath water for a calm and soothing soak. This soak will also help you relax and reduce muscle aches caused by prolonged coughing. Lavender is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, so breathing in the vapor from your lavender bath will reduce the swelling and pain in your throat. If you are unable to have a bath, you can use steam inhalation with lavender flowers.
Chamomile Tea for Soothing Throat Irritation
Chamomile tea is brewed from dried chamomile flowers and is known for its soothing properties, which help to reduce the cough reflex, especially in dry coughs. This is particularly effective if you are unable to sleep because of your cough. Drinking a cup of freshly brewed chamomile tea before you go to bed will help you sleep through the night. Studies on chamomile show that it has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects, which means that it helps to relieve spasms of involuntary muscles such as those that cause coughing.
Elderflower Cordial to Reduce Coughing and Boost Immunity
Elderflower blossoms have long been a go-to in folk medicine for both wet and dry coughs as they soothe a sore throat, help to boost immunity, and improve lung health. You can make your own elderflower cordial with elderflowers and honey. You will need to wash and steep your flowers in water that is almost boiling hot until it cools down. You can add your honey to it, strain, and refrigerate it. When using elderflowers, it is best to pluck flowers from your own tree. Some people who forage for flowers confuse hemlock with elderflowers, which can be fatal.
Marshmallow Infusion to Coat and Calm a Sore Throat
Marshmallow flowers and roots contain mucilage, which is slippery and creates a soothing film that coats the throat. This is especially effective in treating dry coughs that are caused or aggravated by cold, dry air. An infusion made with marshmallow flowers and roots will help to soothe a sore throat caused by a persistent cough.
Grow Your Own Floral Pharmacy at Home
There are plenty of healing medicinal plants you can grow at home. You can keep the plants that require sunshine on your windowsill, and the ones that only require diffused sunlight to thrive can be used as part of your decor. These plants will not only help to lift your mood but will ensure that you always have a remedy on hand.
