Written By: Anusuya Suresh | Updated : June 15, 2015 11:15 PM IST
Allergic cough is a type of cough that is set off by specific allergens such as atmospheric pollutants, solvent vapours, dust mites, pollen, pet hair and some food items. When these allergens gain access to our body, they tend to irritate the linings of the throat, nose, larynx, airways and lungs. This leads to an inflammation of the linings, resulting in a cough. Home remedies for allergic cough therefore act in two ways either they reduce the symptoms of inflammation and irritation, or they act as immunomodulators to strengthen the immune system to resist the attack by such allergens. Some of the simple home remedies for allergic cough are discussed here. (Read: How to prevent allergic cough and cold in the winter)
Some people experience an itchy sensation in the throat after eating pineapple or drinking pineapple juice which may be because of an allergy to the fruit. However, in most other persons, this fruit is a very good remedy for allergic cough because it contains an enzyme called bromelain. This compound has an anti-inflammatory effect and this helps to stem the inflammation of the airways that produces allergic cough. However, persons with an allergy to pineapple cannot use this remedy. Also, it is not recommended for persons on antibiotic therapy or those using blood thinners.
Probiotics
Milk and milk products such as yogurt and cheese contain a bacterium called Lactobacillus which is called a probiotic. This mainly helps to improve digestion; however, it has also been found to reduce the body s susceptibility to the ill effects of some allergens such as pollen. (Read: Natural ways to add probiotics to your diet)
Basil or Tulsi is a rich source of antioxidants; this gives it a strong anti-inflammatory action which can help prevent or treat an allergic cough. Combining basil with ginger and honey works well for such a cough. Crush one handful of basil leaves into a paste, add in 1 teaspoon of ginger paste, mix well and then extract the juice. Add 3 teaspoons of honey to this juice and take 1 teaspoon of this liquid thrice a day. (Read: Suffering from allergic cough? Here s expert help)
Juice from beetroot, cucumber and carrot
Beetroots contain betalains and carrot and cucumber contain beta carotene compounds which are known to be powerful antioxidants and therefore, possessing anti-inflammatory properties. A home remedy can be prepared by mixing 250 ml of carrot juice with 100 ml each of cucumber and beetroot juice. Consuming this juice mix once everyday is useful in reducing the allergic response and combat allergic cough.
Both honey and lemon have antibacterial effects; they also have anti-allergic properties. Squeeze half a lemon into a glass of lukewarm water and mix in 1 teaspoon of honey. Drink every morning on an empty stomach to get relief from allergic cough. (Read: 9 reasons how honey and lemon can do wonders for your health)
Kantakari
Kantakari or Kateli as it is called in Hindi, is the fruit of the Yellow Berried Nightshade plant. It has been used in Ayurveda for asthmatic cough as well as allergic cough. It is commercially available in the form of KantakariAvaleha, a semi-solid preparation, or as a powder, which must be consumed under medical supervision. (Read: How to get instant relief from cough)
Ashwagandha or Indian Ginseng, is a herb that is known for its immunomodulator as well as adaptogenic properties. It helps to strengthen the functioning of the immune system and also helps the body adapt better to stress. Considering that stress tends to aggravate allergic conditions, consuming a herb that provides relief from the harmful effects of stress is a good way of keeping allergic cough at bay.Ashwagandha root extract, root powder and churna are a few of the commercially available products; these must be taken under medical supervision for best results.
The home remedies mentioned here can provide a measure of relief from the discomfort of an allergic cough. However, if there is no improvement in your health even after trying these remedies for a week or so, it is best to see a doctor to rule out any other underlying cause of the cough. (Read: 7 things you should avoid when you re suffering from a cough)
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