Turmeric, An Herbal Alternative for Natural Cough Relief

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A cough can be annoying, but it can also be serious. Whether your cough is due to a minor illness or a chronic condition, turmeric can provide a natural alternative for welcome relief.

A Cough is a Message

When you cough, your body is trying to tell you something. Any cough could be a complication due to pneumonia, asthma, a respiratory tract infection, or a common cold. If it lasts more than a few days or is accompanied by fever or other symptoms, it could mean an illness that’s serious enough for medical attention.

Sadly, the professionals you rely on will likely treat your cough with medication. Drugs may cause side effects, including weakness and problems from interactions with other drugs. The Center for Disease and Prevention have also issued warnings about using over the counter cough preparations.

Turmeric has Been Curing Coughs for over 4000 Years

You probably know turmeric as the herb that gives curry powder its golden yellow hue. It can also cure your cough without causing more problems. ?It’s grown in Asia, where it’s been used for centuries in Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese medicine. Its antibacterial and antiviral properties make it a popular alternative for treating coughs and colds naturally.

Curcumin, turmeric’s active ingredient, is comprised of the curcuminoids, diferuloylmethane, demethoxycurcumin, and bisdemethoxycurcumin. Diferuloylmethane, found in the highest proportion, gives turmeric its color and medicinal properties. It acts as an antibacterial and an antiviral. Anti-inflammatory properties relieve chest congestion due to chronic coughs. Extracts of turmeric oil relieve cough by eliminating phlegm.

Turmeric for Chronic Cough

If your cough has continued for an extended period of time, you are likely familiar with the problems of chronic coughing. A chronic cough can cause lack of sleep, exhaustion, stress, and other issues. Turmeric can be a simple home remedy.

  • Traditional medicine recommends gradually sucking 1 gm of roasted turmeric powder in a betel leaf with 0.25 gms of Javakhar (Potassii carbons)–morning and after dinner. Supplement this dose with turmeric poured into boiling goat’s milk. Cool then drink.
  • Ayurvedic medicine recommends dieting according to your disease. Controlling chronic cough requires avoiding oily and spicy food, no overeating, and including dates, papaya, wheat flour based foods in your diet.
  • University of Maryland Medical Center’s Comlimenetary and Alternative Medicine Guide lists cut root, dried powder, standardized powder, fluid extract, or tincture methods of turmeric use.

Improved Curcumin Absorption

Here are two ways to accomplish curcumin absorption for maximum therapeutic benefit.

  • Create a “microemulsion” with a blend of 1 tablespoon of powder, 1 to 2 egg yolks and 2 teaspoons of coconut oil.
  • Mix 1 tablespoon of curcumin powder into a cup of boiling water. Boil for ten minutes for a concentrated solution.

A Few Turmeric Tips

  • Be cautious when mixing preparations. Turmeric’s bright color can cause a permanent staining.
  • Curry powder contains very little turmeric.
  • Purchase curcumin powder from safe manufacturers who guarantee their products.
  • Buy raw turmeric and make your own powder.
  • Use organic turmeric where possible.

Avoid Coughs and Colds Naturally

  • A turmeric milk beverage daily may act as preventive maintenance to avoid coughs and colds.
  • Take a turmeric beverage or preparation when you feel the early symptoms of cough and colds.

When to Avoid Turmeric

As turmeric is a spice, it’s safe in general. Still you should avoid it if you are pregnant, diabetic, have gallbladder problems, or are anticipating surgery. Turmeric can slow blood clotting, so persons taking blood thinners should avoid curcumin based products. Take proper precautions when giving turmeric to young children.

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Heidi Kristoffer
I am Heidi Kristoffer, as an expert on natural health and holistic medicine, I am willing to help people live happier capable lives by sharing my health opinions with others. I am good at writing topics such as: medicine, natural remedies, foods and mental health. I think living a simple and healthy life, including eating healthy, exercising regularly and positively thinking, is the best medicine.