Home Health Tips Whiskey Cough Remedy



Whiskey Cough Remedy

Whiskey has been an important ingredient in home remedies to cure coughs and colds. Whiskey is considered to calm a sore throat, warm the chest and induce sleep. In fact, many over-the-counter cough syrups have some alcohol in them.

Healing Power of Alcohol

The word alcohol may well have negative connotations to it. In fact, healing and alcohol is a controversial and unproven subject; however, alcohol has been used in the treatment of cough for generations now. Some of the qualities of alcohol are as follows:

  • Helps eliminate mucus
  • Clears respiratory system
  • Melts hardened mucus
  • Relaxes and calms the nerves

Dry Cough

A dry cough is one that does not cause phlegm or sputum. A dry cough may be an indicator of a benign or a serious disease. A dash of whiskey combined with honey and lemon may help eliminate mucous and clear sinuses in dry cough.Some other easy tips and home remedies for cough relief are as follows:

  • Inhale steam for a few minutes. Steam calms a sore throat and eases dry cough. Add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to the water for relaxation.
  • Gargle with saline water. A gargle will soothe the throat and reduce irritation.
  • Chew ginger. Ginger soothes the throat.
  • Mix grape juice with an equal amount of honey. Grape juice reduces sputum or phlegm.
  • Sleep in an elevated position to avoid collection of mucus in the throat and lungs.
  • Sip peppermint and chamomile tea to open up the bronchial passage.

Bronchitis

Bronchitis refers to the inflammation of bronchial tubes. The bronchial tubes carry air to the lungs. People suffering from bronchitis often suffer from following symptoms:

  • Cough
  • Chest pain
  • Low grade fever
  • Shortness of breath

Liquor, for the most part whiskey, has been traditionally used in treating chest congestion or mild bronchitis. Regular sips of honey, lemon and whiskey concoction can help relieve the congestion in the chest and provide relief from sinusitis. Cloves and cinnamon may be added for flavor and potency. A mixture of boiled dried lemon, dried basil, honey, and a shot of whiskey sipped and inhaled alternatively can help ease throat and sinus congestion.

Hot Toddy

Hot toddy is considered a very popular cough and cold remedy. The mix is believed to relieve congestion, soothe the throat and relax the body. To make hot toddy, add a teaspoon of honey to a small shot of whiskey or bourbon. Squeeze in some lemon juice, and drink the mix at bedtime.

Bourbon and Brandy

Hot bourbon is probably the most effective alcoholic cough suppressant. However, there is no reliable evidence to support the claim.Alternatively, brandy is also used to soothe and relax the nerves and treat coughs. Brandy has some medicinal properties; it is believed to relieve congestion and helps to clear the airways. Brandy can be had straight or can be mixed with hot water, honey and lemon.

Alternatively, there are some great home remedies for a cough in kids that do not contain alcohol. Some of these are as follows:

  • Honey is the most effective ingredient to comfort kids with a persistent cough. A teaspoon of honey added to a cup of hot water with a hint of a lemon is a very effective. However, honey is not good for infants under two years of age due to the risk of infant botulism, a dangerous type of food poisoning.
  • Some other well-known homemade cough relievers are chamomile and peppermint tea. Tea, mint, and other herbs calm a sore throat and helps clear sinuses.

Cough Remedy for Babies

The US FDA strongly recommends against the use of over-the-counter cough and cold products for infants and children under the age of two because of serious and life threatening consequences. Moreover, as mentioned above, honey is not recommended for infants and babies either.

Some home care tips to ease a cough in babies are as follows:

  • Use vaporizers and dehumidifiers
  • Try saline nasal drops
  • Provide fluids like water, soups, and broth
  • Hot and cold beverages soothe sore throat in babies
  • Keep surroundings clean from dust/pet dander
  • Initiate rest

However, as in any other disease, it is important to seek medical attention if the cough persists.

Notwithstanding, the effectiveness of home remedies, it is necessary to know that cough is sometimes the natural mechanism applied by the body to discard mucus from the air passage. It is also imperative to note the duration and the persistence of symptoms. When home remedies do not work and symptoms continue for more than a few days, it is advisable to consult a physician as it may be an indication of more serious disease.

References:

  1. http://www.fda.gov/default.htm