Burdened by a nagging cough this winter? (Do THIS)

It’s brutal out there—and I don’t mean the wintry weather.

You see, many people are fighting common respiratory illnesses left and right. And while most of their symptoms have dissipated, they’re left with one thing…

A nagging cough.

It’s a common phenomenon that leaves many health experts scratching their heads. Even after the virus is gone, patients can’t seem to shake their cough.

Finally, scientists are exploring how infections meddle with our airways.

Let’s talk about it. Then, I’ll share a natural way you can calm your lingering cough.

A scientific explanation

Our bodies trigger acute inflammation when it’s fighting against a virus. It’s a natural response that helps kickstart your immune system’s healing process.

And research suggests this inflammation increases the sensitivity of our airway nerves.

One theory suggests this hypersensitivity lingers in some individuals, causing their persistent cough. (Makes sense to me!)

A lingering cough, though annoying, isn’t usually a cause for concern—unless it persists for more than eight weeks.

Of course, if your cough is accompanied by other worrisome symptoms—like a fever, shortness of breath, or bloody phlegm—contact your healthcare provider right away.

Now that we understand a potential reasoning behind that persistent cough, despite kicking the infection, let’s turn to a natural remedy to help soothe your throat.

Calm your cough—naturally

Research shows the herb thyme can help relieve coughs, as it opens up the airways and helps relax the muscles of the trachea and bronchial tubes.

Make a soothing cup of tea by pouring boiling water over a handful of fresh thyme sprigs. Rub them between your palms first to release the essential oils. Let it steep for 10-15 minutes and drink two or three times a day, until you find relief.

There’s also some evidence showing that the natural enzyme bromelain can help thin mucus and quiet a cough. (This is found in pineapples, so some choose to drink pineapple juice.) But I recommend taking a bromelain supplement—200 mg per day is usually sufficient.

Of course, the best way to fight off a lingering cough is to make sure your immune system is in good working order.

Three simple steps to help you boost your immune system this winter include:

• Eliminate sugar.
• Wash your hands regularly with plain soap and water. (Avoid hand sanitizer or anti-bacterial soaps and gels.)
• Take 1,000 mg of AHCC per day. This is a medicinal mushroom extract with an expansive body of clinical research on its ability to support immune health.

Sources:

“You’re not sick anymore—so why are you still coughing?” National Geographic, 01/07/2025. (nationalgeographic.com/science/article/lingering-cough-virus-covid-rsv)

“What can I do to make my cough go away naturally?” MedicalNewsToday, 11/28/2023. (medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322394)