🕷️ Crawler Inspector

​ [Skip to content](https://www.health.com/condition/cold/stop-coughing-sore-throat#main) [Health](https://www.health.com/) - Please fill out this field. - [Newsletters](https://www.health.com/condition/cold/stop-coughing-sore-throat) Please fill out this field. - [News](https://www.health.com/news) News - [Recalls and Food Safety](https://www.health.com/food-safety-7378186) - [View All](https://www.health.com/news) - [Conditions A - Z](https://www.health.com/diseases-conditions) Conditions A - Z - [Endometriosis](https://www.health.com/condition/endometriosis) - [Anxiety](https://www.health.com/condition/anxiety) - [Type 2 Diabetes](https://www.health.com/condition/type-2-diabetes) - [Headaches and Migraines](https://www.health.com/condition/headaches-and-migraines) - [Cold](https://www.health.com/condition/cold) - [Flu](https://www.health.com/condition/flu) - [View All](https://www.health.com/diseases-conditions) - [Nutrition](https://www.health.com/nutrition) Nutrition - [Eat Well](https://www.health.com/eat-well-6951509) - [Nutrition Basics](https://www.health.com/nutrition-basics-6951511) - [Vitamins and Supplements](https://www.health.com/nutrition/vitamins-supplements) - [View All](https://www.health.com/nutrition) - [Wellness](https://www.health.com/wellness) Wellness - [Mental Health](https://www.health.com/mental-health-6951502) - [Fitness](https://www.health.com/fitness) - [Skincare](https://www.health.com/beauty/skincare) - [Sexual Health](https://www.health.com/sexual-health-8422429) - [View All](https://www.health.com/wellness) - [What to Buy](https://www.health.com/what-to-buy-6951517) What to Buy - [Nutrition & Supplements](https://www.health.com/nutritional-supplements-6951520) - [Oral & Dental Care](https://www.health.com/oral-and-dental-products-6951524) - [Sleep Products](https://www.health.com/sleep-products-and-reviews-6951528) - [Over the Counter](https://www.health.com/over-the-counter-products-8651366) - [Skincare](https://www.health.com/skincare-products-6951522) - [View All](https://www.health.com/what-to-buy-6951517) - [About Us](https://www.health.com/about-us-8415145) About Us - [Editorial Process](https://www.health.com/health-com-s-editorial-process-5224046) - [Medical Expert Board](https://www.health.com/health-com-s-medical-expert-board-5224047) - [Testing and Vetting Products](https://www.health.com/how-health-com-test-products-5224057) - [Read More](https://www.health.com/about-us-8415145) Stay informed with emails from us - Please fill out this field. - [Newsletter Sign Up](https://www.health.com/condition/cold/stop-coughing-sore-throat) - [News](https://www.health.com/news) - [Recalls and Food Safety](https://www.health.com/food-safety-7378186) - [Conditions A - Z](https://www.health.com/diseases-conditions) - [Endometriosis](https://www.health.com/condition/endometriosis) - [Anxiety](https://www.health.com/condition/anxiety) - [Type 2 Diabetes](https://www.health.com/condition/type-2-diabetes) - [Headaches and Migraines](https://www.health.com/condition/headaches-and-migraines) - [Cold](https://www.health.com/condition/cold) - [Flu](https://www.health.com/condition/flu) - [View All](https://www.health.com/diseases-conditions) - [Nutrition](https://www.health.com/nutrition) - [Eat Well](https://www.health.com/eat-well-6951509) - [Nutrition Basics](https://www.health.com/nutrition-basics-6951511) - [Vitamins and Supplements](https://www.health.com/nutrition/vitamins-supplements) - [View All](https://www.health.com/nutrition) - [Wellness](https://www.health.com/wellness) - [Mental Health](https://www.health.com/mental-health-6951502) - [Fitness](https://www.health.com/fitness) - [Skincare](https://www.health.com/beauty/skincare) - [Sexual Health](https://www.health.com/sexual-health-8422429) - [View All](https://www.health.com/wellness) - [What to Buy](https://www.health.com/what-to-buy-6951517) - [Nutrition & Supplements](https://www.health.com/nutritional-supplements-6951520) - [Oral & Dental Care](https://www.health.com/oral-and-dental-products-6951524) - [Sleep Products](https://www.health.com/sleep-products-and-reviews-6951528) - [Over the Counter](https://www.health.com/over-the-counter-products-8651366) - [Skincare](https://www.health.com/skincare-products-6951522) - [View All](https://www.health.com/what-to-buy-6951517) [About Us](https://www.health.com/about-us-8415145) - [Editorial Process](https://www.health.com/health-com-s-editorial-process-5224046) - [Medical Expert Board](https://www.health.com/health-com-s-medical-expert-board-5224047) - [Testing and Vetting Products](https://www.health.com/how-health-com-test-products-5224057) # How To Get Rid of a Cough in 5 Minutes By [Jessica Migala](https://www.health.com/author/jessica-migala) ![Jessica Migala]() :max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/jmigala2-copy-2000-dd8dfe7d97aa4a45a6bf4a6cdfa52ce2.jpg) [Jessica Migala](https://www.health.com/author/jessica-migala) Jessica Migala has been a health, fitness, and nutrition writer for almost 15 years. She has contributed to more than 40 print and digital publications, including Health and Runner's World. Jessica had her first editing role at Prevention magazine and, later, Michigan Avenue magazine in Chicago. She currently lives in the suburbs with her husband, two young sons, and beagle. When not reporting, Jessica likes runs, bike rides, and glasses of wine (in moderation, of course). Find her @jlmigala or on LinkedIn. [health's editorial guidelines](https://www.health.com/health-com-s-editorial-process-5224046) Updated on January 30, 2026 Medically reviewed by [Daniel Combs, MD](https://www.health.com/author/daniel-combs-md) ![Daniel Combs, MD]() :max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/DanielCombsMD-fa71ca9da9774e8d9adc4ce6be846e0f.jpg) Medically reviewed by [Daniel Combs, MD](https://www.health.com/author/daniel-combs-md) Daniel Combs, MD, is an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics and Medicine at the University of Arizona. [learn more](https://www.health.com/health-com-s-medical-expert-board-5224047) In This Article View All In This Article - [1\. Inhale Steam](https://www.health.com/condition/cold/stop-coughing-sore-throat#toc-1-inhale-steam) - [2\. Suck on Cough Drops](https://www.health.com/condition/cold/stop-coughing-sore-throat#toc-2-suck-on-cough-drops) - [3\. Gargle With Salt Water](https://www.health.com/condition/cold/stop-coughing-sore-throat#toc-3-gargle-with-salt-water) - [4\. Consume Honey](https://www.health.com/condition/cold/stop-coughing-sore-throat#toc-4-consume-honey) - [5\. Try Bromelain](https://www.health.com/condition/cold/stop-coughing-sore-throat#toc-5-try-bromelain) - [6\. Consider Herbs](https://www.health.com/condition/cold/stop-coughing-sore-throat#toc-6-consider-herbs) - [7\. Sip Hot Fluids](https://www.health.com/condition/cold/stop-coughing-sore-throat#toc-7-sip-hot-fluids) - [8\. Stay Hydrated](https://www.health.com/condition/cold/stop-coughing-sore-throat#toc-8-stay-hydrated) - [9\. Use a Humidifier](https://www.health.com/condition/cold/stop-coughing-sore-throat#toc-9-use-a-humidifier) - [10\. Use Cough Medicines](https://www.health.com/condition/cold/stop-coughing-sore-throat#toc-10-use-cough-medicines) - [11\. Consider a Neti Pot](https://www.health.com/condition/cold/stop-coughing-sore-throat#toc-11-consider-a-neti-pot) - [12\. Avoid Smoking](https://www.health.com/condition/cold/stop-coughing-sore-throat#toc-12-avoid-smoking) - [13\. Make Dietary Changes](https://www.health.com/condition/cold/stop-coughing-sore-throat#toc-13-make-dietary-changes) - [14\. Add Probiotics to Your Diet](https://www.health.com/condition/cold/stop-coughing-sore-throat#toc-14-add-probiotics-to-your-diet) - [When To Seek Care](https://www.health.com/condition/cold/stop-coughing-sore-throat#toc-when-to-seek-care) Close :max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-1277415981-b0ccc7bf85ca4c7b9e4f48ee0e87ed26.jpg) :max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-1277415981-b0ccc7bf85ca4c7b9e4f48ee0e87ed26.jpg) Brothers91 / Getty Images - You can reduce a cough by inhaling eucalyptus oil, sucking on menthol cough drops, or consuming honey. - Making dietary changes and avoiding smoking can help you prevent a cough long-term. - A cough that lasts longer than 10-14 days may warrant a doctor's visit. You can typically get rid of a cough in five minutes by gargling with salt water, inhaling steam from a hot shower, or using a humidifier. ## 1\. Inhale Steam Try taking an extra-long, hot shower, and let the steam soothe the breathing passages. A steam treatment with eucalyptus oilcan also treat a cough. Fill your sink or a bowl with hot water and a few drops of oil. Put your head over it, and breathe deeply for about 10 minutes. ## 2\. Suck on Cough Drops Sucking on cough drops can suppress a cough and moisten a dry, scratchy throat. Choose cough drops made from [elderberry](https://www.health.com/health-benefits-of-elderberry-7506026) extract or menthol. Elderberry extract may shorten the duration of a cough. Menthol, a compound found in [peppermint](https://www.health.com/mint-benefits-8661009), opens the airways and helps you breathe easily. ## 3\. Gargle With Salt Water Try gargling with saltwater to relieve a cough and soothe a [sore throat](https://www.health.com/condition/cold/14-ways-to-soothe-a-sore-throat). Saltwater can loosen and thin mucus, which makes it easier to cough up. Mix half a teaspoon of salt in 1 cup of water. Gargle with your head tilted back, then spit it out. Repeat this a few times. ## 4\. Consume Honey Honey can be as effective as the cough medicine dextromethorphan. It also acts as an antimicrobial, killing the bacteria and viruses that make you sick. You can enjoy 1 teaspoon of [honey](https://www.health.com/food/health-benefits-honey) on its own or mix it into a warm tea. Never give honey to a child younger than 1 year old. ## 5\. Try Bromelain Bromelain is an enzyme (protein) typically found in pineapples. It can act as a mucolytic, helping break down mucus. Pineapple juice might not contain enough [bromelain](https://www.health.com/bromelain-benefits-7501168) to have a noticeable effect. Bromelain supplements are available over the counter, but talk to a healthcare provider before starting any. They can interact with certain medications, including antibiotics. ## 6\. Consider Herbs Herbs that have been shown to [improve cold symptoms](https://www.health.com/how-to-stop-a-cold-when-you-feel-it-coming-on-8714290) include: - Chamomile - Ginger - Marshmallow root - Oregon grape root - Slippery elm - Thyme Try adding 1 tablespoon of dry herbs to 1 tablespoon of honey. Let it steep over low heat on the stove. Strain the syrup through cheesecloth. You can drink the liquid straight a few times per day or stir it into a cup of tea. ## 7\. Sip Hot Fluids Warm tea and other hot liquids, like soup, are soothing for a sore throat. When you soothe the area, your body stops trying to expel anything through coughing. ## 8\. Stay Hydrated Staying hydrated helps prevent infections and thins mucus, which makes it easier to cough. Warm tea, soup, and water soothe a dry, [scratchy throat](https://www.health.com/itchy-throat-7068946). ## 9\. Use a Humidifier Humidifiers add moisture to the air, which can help if you have a dry cough and a scratchy throat. You can also put a few drops of [essential oil](https://www.health.com/condition/stress/essential-oil-mistakes) in a humidifier. Remember to clean out the unit according to the manufacturer's directions. ## 10\. Use Cough Medicines Guaifenesin is an expectorant, meaning it thins mucus and makes it easier to cough up. Decongestants help treat a runny nose and [post-nasal drip](https://www.health.com/postnasal-drip-7228969). Check with a doctor if you are unsure whether you or your child can take cough medicine. ## 11\. Consider a Neti Pot Avoiding allergens is the first step to treating a cough caused by [allergies](https://www.health.com/condition/allergy/home-remedies-for-allergies-what-works). A neti pot washes away dust, pet dander, and pollen from the nasal passage. Just be sure to use sterile, boiled, or distilled water. ## 12\. Avoid Smoking Smoking and secondhand smoke can irritate and [inflame](https://www.health.com/inflammation-7480642) the respiratory tract, worsening a cough. ## 13\. Make Dietary Changes Acid reflux is one of the most common causes of a [dry cough](https://www.health.com/dry-cough-11706521). It causes stomach acid to flow backward into the esophagus (the tube connecting the throat to the stomach). Try avoiding foods and drinks that trigger acid reflux, such as: - Alcohol - Caffeine - Chocolate - Citrus - High-fat or fried foods - Mint - Spicy foods - Tomatoes ## 14\. Add Probiotics to Your Diet Probiotics are helpful gut bacteria that support the immune system. These bacteria will not suppress a cough, but a strong immune system may shorten its duration. You can take probiotics in supplement form or eat [probiotic-rich foods](https://www.health.com/foods-high-in-probiotics-that-support-gut-health-11930215) like: - Kimchi - Miso soup - Saurerkraut - Yogurt ## When To Seek Care An acute (short-term) cough typically resolves on its own within three weeks. Contact a doctor if your infant, younger than 3 months old, has a cough. Get immediate medical attention if you have symptoms like: - A cough that lasts longer than 10-14 days - Coughing that brings up blood - Fever - Night sweats - Signs of heart failure (e.g., leg swelling or a cough that gets worse when you lie down) - Stridor, or a high-pitched sound when you breathe in - Thick, yellowish-green phlegm that smells foul - Unintentional weight loss - A violent cough that begins rapidly Updated by [Emily Santora](https://www.health.com/emily-santora-7092547) ![Emily Santora]() :max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/Photo1ES-EmilySantora-26c1d7cfc1d549ffb70e29ace3cd9993.jpg) [Emily Santora](https://www.health.com/emily-santora-7092547) As a student at Arizona State University, Emily was a writer and editor for the Embryo Project Encyclopedia, where she researched, wrote, and published over 18 peer-reviewed encyclopedia articles. As a writer, Emily studied and wrote articles about the menstrual cycle. [learn more](https://www.health.com/about-us-8415145) Read more: - [Health Conditions A-Z](https://www.health.com/diseases-conditions) - [Infectious Diseases](https://www.health.com/condition/infectious-diseases) - [Common Cold](https://www.health.com/condition/cold) Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback\! Tell us why\! Other 22 Sources Health.com uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our [editorial process](https://www.health.com/health-com-s-editorial-process-5224046) to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. 1. MedlinePlus. [Cough](https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003072.htm). 2. Wieland LS, Piechotta V, Feinberg T, et al. [Elderberry for prevention and treatment of viral respiratory illnesses: A systematic review](https://doi.org/10.1186/s12906-021-03283-5). *BMC Complement Med Ther*. 2021;21(1):112. doi:10.1186/s12906-021-03283-5 3. PubChem. [Menthol](https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Menthol). 4. MedlinePlus. [Pharyngitis - sore throat](https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000655.htm). 5. Bennett E, Daly S. [Is honey better than dextromethorphan at decreasing acute cough in children?](https://doi.org/10.1097/EBP.0000000000000453). *EBPR*. 2021;24(3):40-41. doi:10.1097/EBP.0000000000000453 6. Abuelgasim H, Albury C, Lee J. [Effectiveness of honey for symptomatic relief in upper respiratory tract infections: A systematic review and meta-analysis](https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjebm-2020-111336). *BMJ Evid Based Med*. 2021;26(2):57-64. doi:10.1136/bmjebm-2020-111336 7. Coelho Dos Reis JGA, Ferreira GM, Lourenço AA, et al. [Ex-vivo mucolytic and anti-inflammatory activity of BromAc in tracheal aspirates from COVID-19](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biopha.2022.112753). *Biomed Pharmacother*. 2022;148:112753. doi:10.1016/j.biopha.2022.112753 8. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. [Bromelain](https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/bromelain). 9. Mehmood MH, Munir S, Khalid UA, et al. [Antidiarrhoeal, antisecretory and antispasmodic activities of *Matricaria chamomilla* are mediated predominantly through K(+)-channels activation](https://doi.org/10.1186/s12906-015-0595-6). *BMC Complement Altern Med*. 2015;15:75. doi:10.1186/s12906-015-0595-6 10. Farzana M, Shahriar S, Jeba FR, et al. [Functional food: Complementary to fight against COVID-19](https://doi.org/10.1186/s43088-022-00217-z). *Beni Suef Univ J Basic Appl Sci*. 2022;11(1):33. doi:10.1186/s43088-022-00217-z 11. Jabbari Sabbagh A, Mohammadian Rasanan F, Bahrami A, et al. [Acute cough management in Persian medicine](https://doi.org/10.31661/gmj.v9i0.1854). *Galen Med J*. 2020;9:e1854. doi:10.31661/gmj.v9i0.1854 12. Bonaterra GA, Bronischewski K, Hunold P, et al. [Anti-inflammatory and Anti-oxidative Effects of Phytohustil® and Root Extract of *Althaea officinalis* L. on Macrophages *in vitro*](https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2020.00290). *Front Pharmacol*. 2020;11:290. doi:10.3389/fphar.2020.00290 13. [Berberine](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK564659/). In: *LiverTox: Clinical and Research Information on Drug-Induced Liver Injury*. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases; 2020. 14. MedlinePlus. [Slippery elm](https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/natural/978.html). 15. Kardos P, Bittner CB, Seibel J, et al. [Effectiveness and tolerability of the thyme/ivy herbal fluid extract BNO 1200 for the treatment of acute cough: An observational pharmacy-based study](https://doi.org/10.1080/03007995.2021.1960493). *Curr Med Res Opin*. 2021;37(10):1837-1844. doi:10.1080/03007995.2021.1960493 16. [Common colds: Learn More – relief for a stuffy nose, cough and sore throat](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279542/). In: *InformedHealth.org*. Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG); 2023. 17. American Academy of Pediatrics. [Coughs and colds: Medicines or home remedies?](https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/chest-lungs/Pages/Coughs-and-Colds-Medicines-or-Home-Remedies.aspx) 18. Food and Drug Administration. [Is rinsing your sinuses with neti pots safe?](https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/rinsing-your-sinuses-neti-pots-safe) 19. MedlinePlus. [Smoking](https://medlineplus.gov/smoking.html). 20. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. [Eating, diet, & nutrition for GER & GERD](https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/acid-reflux-ger-gerd-adults/eating-diet-nutrition). 21. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. [Probiotics: Usefulness and safety](https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/probiotics-what-you-need-to-know). 22. National Institutes of Health. Office of Dietary Supplements. [Probiotics - health professional fact sheet](https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Probiotics-HealthProfessional/). ## Related Articles [![person with a cold blowing their nose sitting on a couch]() :max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-1465899522-c23b7f1221984804af9d6e21af3f1261.jpg) How Long Are You Contagious With a Cold?](https://www.health.com/condition/cold/how-long-is-a-cold-contagious) [![Man holds a fist up to his mouth during a dry coughing fit.]() :max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/Health-GettyImages-1716970555-80a95c3214b541d994fa9debf51a67b3.jpg) Symptoms and Treatments for Dry Coughs](https://www.health.com/dry-cough-11706521) [![Black man sitting on couch wrapped in blanket blowing nose]() :max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-1432853799-cf297269883a481c96ea7ef38f53fd7b.jpg) How Long Does a Common Cold Last?](https://www.health.com/condition/cold/stages-of-a-cold) [![A father helps his daughter blow her nose]() :max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/Health-GettyImages-1398709836-dfb0eaad29044a68908498486c770035.jpg) Signs and Symptoms of the Common Cold](https://www.health.com/common-cold-symptoms-7111794) [![Person coughing while sitting on the couch.]() :max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/Health-GettyImages-1715472524-ed24818034244154a0306b4fa1c80f29.jpg) Common Causes and Remedies for Chronic Coughing](https://www.health.com/condition/cold/how-to-stop-coughing) [![Sick Woman Covered With a Blanket Lying in Bed With High Fever and a Flu, Resting at Living Room. She Is Exhausted and Suffering From Flu. Sick Woman With Runny Nose Lying in Bed. Girl Suffering From Cold Lying in Bed With Tissue Blowing Her Nose While Sitting on the Sofa]() :max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-1044227348-2000-075fb9e9bc4341059592324283645c93.jpg) 12 Effective Ways To Get Rid of Chest Mucus at Home](https://www.health.com/condition/cold/how-to-get-rid-of-chest-congestion) [![girl-sick-bed]() :max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/sore-throat-gettyimages-949553108_0-2000-a195eb70402d4a1ba806c3a2cafa8f05.jpg) 13 Ways To Soothe a Sore Throat Fast](https://www.health.com/condition/cold/14-ways-to-soothe-a-sore-throat) [![Parent gives tea to child on their lap who appears to have a cold.]() :max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/Health-GettyImages-1291294433-0380d79188f24e2b887aecbcb21aae01.jpg) Is It Just a Cold or Something Worse?](https://www.health.com/condition/cold/signs-more-serious-common-cold) [![female blowing her nose into a tissue with eyes closed]() :max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-854418348-33ef1a72649a428388e8dfa396cf922e.jpg) What Are Boogers—and Should You Pick Them?](https://www.health.com/condition/cold/what-are-boogers) [![Young woman wiping phlegm with tissue]() :max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-1345681829-e5f8d72a579941068099942a223de512.jpg) How To Get Rid of Phlegm in Your Throat and Chest](https://www.health.com/phlegm-7496034) [![Person blowing their nose while sick with a cold at home.]() :max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/Health-GettyImages-1216667288-c44434c1705d42e98a6112483c6a3547.jpg) 9 Ways To Stop a Cold Fast](https://www.health.com/condition/cold/ease-cold-symptoms) [![Woman who is sick sitting on her couch holding a tissue with her hand against her chest]() :max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/Health-GettyImages-1730743473-039577fe722f4d22a8309bcd3128f7ed.jpg) 6 Types of Colds and Their Symptoms Explained](https://www.health.com/types-of-colds-8723385) [![Person in bed with a cold blowing their nose with tissues.]() :max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/Health-GettyImages-1637743273-88f919181bf644f3ad34e334af41f08e.jpg) How Long Do Cold Symptoms Last?](https://www.health.com/condition/cold/how-long-does-a-cold-last) [![Woman sneezing due to cold during a break in a cafe using an handkerchief]() :max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-488787076-ba67afcc29e5473b85de1cebde7d0677.jpg) 9 Tips for Getting Rid of a Cold Fast](https://www.health.com/how-to-get-rid-of-a-cold-fast-8391747) [![Mother with syringe giving medicine to her daughter]() :max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/Health-GettyImages-1407512726-cdf3edd766ee4d7bb90cd2b71cb8f2af.jpg) Are Cough Syrups Effective for Cold Symptoms?](https://www.health.com/condition/cold/does-cough-syrup-work) [![Person with cold drinks beverage.]() :max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/Health-GettyImages-1326218528-713669ce38eb405a81854216f176d965.jpg) What Cold and Flu Medicine Should You Use?](https://www.health.com/condition/cold/best-and-worst-cold-medicines) [Health](https://www.health.com/) [Newsletters](https://www.health.com/condition/cold/stop-coughing-sore-throat) Follow Us - [News](https://www.health.com/news) - [Conditions A-Z](https://www.health.com/diseases-conditions) - [Nutrition](https://www.health.com/nutrition) - [Wellness](https://www.health.com/wellness) - [About Us](https://www.health.com/about-us-8415145) - [Medical Expert Board](https://www.health.com/health-com-s-medical-expert-board-5224047) - [Editorial Process](https://www.health.com/health-com-s-editorial-process-5224046) - [Privacy Policy](https://www.people.inc/brands-privacy) - [Product Vetting](https://www.health.com/how-health-com-test-products-5224057) - [Terms of Service](https://www.people.inc/brands-termsofservice) - [Careers](https://www.people.inc/careers) - [Advertise](https://www.people.inc/advertising) - [Contact](https://www.health.com/about-us-8415145#toc-contact-us) *Health's* content is for informational and educational purposes only. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. *Health* is part of the [People Inc.](https://www.people.inc/) publishing family. Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up

You can typically get rid of a cough in five minutes by gargling with salt water, inhaling steam from a hot shower, or using a humidifier. Try taking an extra-long, hot shower, and let the steam soothe the breathing passages. A steam treatment with eucalyptus oilcan also treat a cough. Fill your sink or a bowl with hot water and a few drops of oil. Put your head over it, and breathe deeply for about 10 minutes. Sucking on cough drops can suppress a cough and moisten a dry, scratchy throat. Choose cough drops made from [elderberry](https://www.health.com/health-benefits-of-elderberry-7506026) extract or menthol. Elderberry extract may shorten the duration of a cough. Menthol, a compound found in [peppermint](https://www.health.com/mint-benefits-8661009), opens the airways and helps you breathe easily. Try gargling with saltwater to relieve a cough and soothe a [sore throat](https://www.health.com/condition/cold/14-ways-to-soothe-a-sore-throat). Saltwater can loosen and thin mucus, which makes it easier to cough up. Mix half a teaspoon of salt in 1 cup of water. Gargle with your head tilted back, then spit it out. Repeat this a few times. Honey can be as effective as the cough medicine dextromethorphan. It also acts as an antimicrobial, killing the bacteria and viruses that make you sick. You can enjoy 1 teaspoon of [honey](https://www.health.com/food/health-benefits-honey) on its own or mix it into a warm tea. Never give honey to a child younger than 1 year old. Bromelain is an enzyme (protein) typically found in pineapples. It can act as a mucolytic, helping break down mucus. Pineapple juice might not contain enough [bromelain](https://www.health.com/bromelain-benefits-7501168) to have a noticeable effect. Bromelain supplements are available over the counter, but talk to a healthcare provider before starting any. They can interact with certain medications, including antibiotics. Herbs that have been shown to [improve cold symptoms](https://www.health.com/how-to-stop-a-cold-when-you-feel-it-coming-on-8714290) include: - Chamomile - Ginger - Marshmallow root - Oregon grape root - Slippery elm - Thyme Try adding 1 tablespoon of dry herbs to 1 tablespoon of honey. Let it steep over low heat on the stove. Strain the syrup through cheesecloth. You can drink the liquid straight a few times per day or stir it into a cup of tea. Warm tea and other hot liquids, like soup, are soothing for a sore throat. When you soothe the area, your body stops trying to expel anything through coughing. Staying hydrated helps prevent infections and thins mucus, which makes it easier to cough. Warm tea, soup, and water soothe a dry, [scratchy throat](https://www.health.com/itchy-throat-7068946). Humidifiers add moisture to the air, which can help if you have a dry cough and a scratchy throat. You can also put a few drops of [essential oil](https://www.health.com/condition/stress/essential-oil-mistakes) in a humidifier. Remember to clean out the unit according to the manufacturer's directions. Guaifenesin is an expectorant, meaning it thins mucus and makes it easier to cough up. Decongestants help treat a runny nose and [post-nasal drip](https://www.health.com/postnasal-drip-7228969). Check with a doctor if you are unsure whether you or your child can take cough medicine. Avoiding allergens is the first step to treating a cough caused by [allergies](https://www.health.com/condition/allergy/home-remedies-for-allergies-what-works). A neti pot washes away dust, pet dander, and pollen from the nasal passage. Just be sure to use sterile, boiled, or distilled water. Smoking and secondhand smoke can irritate and [inflame](https://www.health.com/inflammation-7480642) the respiratory tract, worsening a cough. Acid reflux is one of the most common causes of a [dry cough](https://www.health.com/dry-cough-11706521). It causes stomach acid to flow backward into the esophagus (the tube connecting the throat to the stomach). Try avoiding foods and drinks that trigger acid reflux, such as: - Alcohol - Caffeine - Chocolate - Citrus - High-fat or fried foods - Mint - Spicy foods - Tomatoes Probiotics are helpful gut bacteria that support the immune system. These bacteria will not suppress a cough, but a strong immune system may shorten its duration. You can take probiotics in supplement form or eat [probiotic-rich foods](https://www.health.com/foods-high-in-probiotics-that-support-gut-health-11930215) like: - Kimchi - Miso soup - Saurerkraut - Yogurt An acute (short-term) cough typically resolves on its own within three weeks. Contact a doctor if your infant, younger than 3 months old, has a cough. Get immediate medical attention if you have symptoms like: - A cough that lasts longer than 10-14 days - Coughing that brings up blood - Fever - Night sweats - Signs of heart failure (e.g., leg swelling or a cough that gets worse when you lie down) - Stridor, or a high-pitched sound when you breathe in - Thick, yellowish-green phlegm that smells foul - Unintentional weight loss - A violent cough that begins rapidly