Image by James Allen from Pixabay
In this article you will find a few of my favourite natural, home-made cough remedies which actually work. Such as Marjoram Tea, Onion and Honey syrup and Marshmallow Root tea.
What is Marjoram good for?
Marjoram is a type of Oregano which has been used by humans as far back as astonishing 3000 years and was used by Hippocrates the “father of medicine”.
- Digestive Health
- Heart Health
- Respiratory Health
- Anxiety/Stress/Insomnia
To read more about each of these benefits click here.
Is Marjoram Tea Safe for young children, babies and pregnant women?
To put it simply, IT IS BEST TO AVOID using Marjoram tea for young children, babies or pregnant and breastfeeding women. Taking large amounts of marjoram might slow clotting and increase the chances of bruising and bleeding in people with bleeding disorders.
Likewise if you have diabetes, monitor your blood sugar levels as marjoram might affect them. It is best to consult with your doctor before making a decision.
Image by MiraCosic from Pixabay
Onion & Honey syrup. The old home remedy for cough
Honey has been used since ancient time in traditional Chinese medicine.
- Good alternative to antibiotics
- Helps improve cough frequency and severity see the Study from 2020 (1)
- Helps reduce the risk of heart disease
- Supports a healthy gut
- Keeps blood sugar low
- May hold the key to curbing antimicrobial resistance. see the study from 2017
- Neurological disease (antidepressant, help prevent memory disorders) see the study from 2014
How to make Onion and Honey Syrup?
Ingredients
2 Medium Onions (250 g)
4 Tbsp of Honey
Optional: 1 tbsp Lemon juice, 1 Garlic clove or 1 Tbsp Ginger
Method
- Chop the onions into fine slices and add the honey (plus any extras if you decided to add them)
- Mix it with 4 tablespoons of honey in a mason jar and close the lid.
- Wait at least 24 hours, ideally 2 days.
Is Honey safe for young children?
Don’t give honey to children under 12 months as it’s been known to contain Clostridium botulinum spores.
The bacteria can multiply in an infant’s immature digestive system and cause serious illness.
How Long does the Onion and Honey Syrup stays good to drink?
If you keep the onion in the syrup it will last for up to 6 days in the fridge.
If you strain it and remove the onion, it will be good for up to 6 months!
Always check before however, in case of a mold or bad smell
Image by dungthuyvunguyen from Pixabay
What is Marshmallow Root Tea good for?
The marshmallow root has been used for over 2000 years. The Romans, Chinese, Egyptians, and Syrians used marshmallow as a source of food.
- Treating Coughs this study from 2016 “on the basis of its long-standing use (…) treat irritation of the mouth or throat and associated dry cough.”
- Mild discomfort of the stomach and gut the same study as above
- Protecting the throat from gastric reflux
- Healing wounds
- Helps to cleanse the kidneys and the bladder
- Useful in treating urinary tract infections see this study from 2015
How to make Marshmallow Root Tea for Cough?
Method
- Pour boiling water over the dried root
- Cover and steep it for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Strain and drink (optional: add honey)
Where can i get dry marjoram leaves and marshmallow root from?
When we are hearing ‘marshmallow’ the first thing that comes to mind is the fluffy sweets which you can roast on the bonfire. Marshmallow Root (Althaea officinalis) however is what we want here.
You can buy marjoram leaves and marshmallow root in most local and online shops as these are fairly popular
Is Marshmallow Root Tea Safe for young children?
The marshmallow root is perfectly safe for children over 3 years old.*
Overall herbs have been used for thousands of years also on children. They are gentle yet effective.
*It is important to keep in mind however, that children’s bodies are more sensitive than adults and being cautious is always best. Just like you may be allergic to oranges your child might be allergic to some herbs. It’s best to do a small skin test before you introduce any new herb.