By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Capsules For Cough
Herbal capsules for cough are natural supplements that contain concentrated extracts of herbs, such as licorice root, ginger, and slippery elm, which have been traditionally used to soothe and calm a persistent cough.
These capsules help by reducing inflammation in the throat and airways, loosening mucus, and relieving congestion. Examples of herbal capsules for cough include Zrii's Herbal Cough Relief and Nature's Way Sambucus Cough & Congestion.
By taking these supplements, people can experience relief from a stubborn cough, improved sleep quality, and enhanced daily activities, ultimately improving their overall well-being.
The following article describes in detail the most important capsules for cough, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 2. Thymus vulgaris
- 3. Mentha x piperita
- 4. Allium sativum
- 5. Ginkgo biloba
- 6. Taraxacum officinale
- 7. Foeniculum vulgare
- 8. Zingiber officinale
- 9. Matricaria chamomilla
- 10. Stevia rebaudiana
- What is the best combination of herbal capsules to use for cough?
- What ailments similar to cough are treated with herbal capsules?
1. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice capsules helps with cough because they contain glycyrrhizin, a natural compound that has anti-inflammatory properties.
When inhaled or taken orally, glycyrrhizin soothes the mucous membranes and reduces inflammation in the throat and lungs, providing relief from persistent dry coughs and sore throats. Additionally, licorice root has been shown to have expectorant properties, helping to loosen and clear out mucus and phlegm, allowing for easier breathing and a more productive cough.
As a result, herbal licorice capsules can offer effective natural relief from stubborn coughs.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra capsules that help with cough.
- Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin helps with cough by reducing inflammation in the respiratory tract and suppressing the production of mucus, making it easier to breathe and relieving cough.
- Liquiritin apioside: This isoprenoid glycoside has anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, which help to thin and clear out mucus, making it easier to cough up and relieving congestion.
- Licoric acid: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which help to calm the mucous membranes in the throat and reduce irritation, thereby relieving cough and sore throat.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make capsules for cough.
- Roots: The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra contain glycyrrhizin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, helping to relieve cough and congestion.
- Leaves: The leaves of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used in cough capsules due to their ability to reduce inflammation and soothe the respiratory tract.
- Flowers: The flowers of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used in cough capsules for their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help to combat respiratory infections and soothe a sore throat.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for cough.
- Harvest 2-3 pounds of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots from a trusted supplier or cultivate it in a controlled environment.
- Grind the harvested roots into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle or a high-speed grinder for 30 minutes.
- Combine the powdered roots with a binding agent such as starch or cellulose in a 1:1 ratio by weight to facilitate encapsulation.
- Fill empty gelatin capsules with a portion of the powder mixture using a powder scoop or a funnel for 30 minutes.
- Store the filled capsules in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight for up to 2 years.
2. Thymus vulgaris
Thyme capsules helps with cough because of its natural antibacterial properties, which combat the underlying infection causing the cough.
The capsules' bioavailability allows for efficient absorption into the body, where thyme's active compounds, such as thymol and carvacrol, work to reduce inflammation and soothe irritated mucous membranes.
As a result, herbal thyme capsules provide effective relief from persistent and recurring coughs, helping to restore respiratory health and promote overall well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus vulgaris capsules that help with cough.
- Thymol: Thymol has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce the severity and duration of cough by addressing the underlying bacterial or viral infections causing it.
- Caryophyllene: Caryophyllene is a sesquiterpene with anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, which helps to relieve cough by reducing inflammation in the respiratory tract and promoting the removal of mucus.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid is a phenolic compound with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which helps to reduce the severity of cough by protecting the respiratory tract from oxidative stress and inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make capsules for cough.
- Leaves: They are the most commonly used part, as they contain the highest concentration of thymol, a compound responsible for the herb's medicinal properties.
- Flowers: Thymus vulgaris flowers are used for their antiseptic and expectorant properties, which help relieve cough and congestion.
- Stems: Thymus vulgaris stems are used to make herbal teas and infusions, which are often consumed to soothe coughs and colds due to their antimicrobial properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme for cough.
- Harvest 25 grams of dried thymus vulgaris leaves from a trusted source during the flowering season.
- Dry the harvested leaves at 40 degrees celsius for 2 hours to preserve their properties.
- Use a coffee grinder to grind the dried leaves into a fine powder within 5 minutes.
- Mix 250 milligrams of the powdered thymus vulgaris with 250 milligrams of a binder such as gelatin or cellulose.
- Fill gelatin capsules with the mixture and seal them within 30 minutes to preserve their potency.
3. Mentha x piperita
Peppermint capsules helps with cough because of their natural anti-inflammatory properties that soothe an irritated throat and calm a persistent cough.
The menthol in peppermint oil acts as a natural decongestant, helping to break down mucus and reduce phlegm production, making it easier to expel.
Additionally, peppermint's cooling effect helps to numb the throat, providing instant relief from discomfort and itchiness.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita capsules that help with cough.
- Menthone: Menthone is a monoterpenoid ketone that helps with cough by relieving respiratory tract congestion and reducing inflammation, making it easier to breathe and relieving cough symptoms.
- Menthyl acetate: Menthyl acetate is an ester of menthol that helps with cough by acting as an expectorant, helping to loosen and remove mucus from the airways, and also by reducing inflammation and relieving respiratory tract spasms.
- Menthol: Menthol is a monoterpenoid alcohol that helps with cough by acting as an expectorant and analgesic, helping to loosen and remove mucus from the airways, reducing inflammation and relieving respiratory tract spasms, and also by providing a cooling sensation that helps to numb the throat and relieve cough symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make capsules for cough.
- Leaves: They are the most widely used part due to their high concentration of menthol and menthone, which provide a cooling and decongestant effect.
- Rhyzomes: They contain a high concentration of menthol and menthone, similar to the leaves, making them a popular choice for cough and cold remedies.
- Stems: They are also used due to their high menthol content, which helps to relieve cough and congestion.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for cough.
- Harvest 20-30 grams of fresh mentha x piperita leaves when they are in full bloom and the weather is warm.
- Dry the fresh leaves in a single layer at room temperature for 7-10 days to prevent mold.
- Grind the dried leaves into a fine powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle for 5 minutes.
- Mix 1 gram of the powder with 5 grams of gelatin and 10 ml of distilled water to create a uniform mixture.
- Fill empty gelatin capsules with 250-500 mg of the mixture and seal them tightly using a gelatin capsule sealer.
4. Allium sativum
Garlic capsules helps with cough because of its natural antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties.
The compounds present in garlic capsules, such as allicin and diallyl disulfide, help to break down mucus and reduce congestion in the chest and throat, making it easier to expel phlegm and relieve coughing fits.
Additionally, garlic's natural antibacterial properties help to combat infection-causing bacteria, reducing the severity of a cough and promoting faster recovery.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Allium sativum capsules that help with cough.
- Allicin: Allicin is a sulfur-containing compound that has natural expectorant properties, helping to loosen and clear mucus from the airways, relieving cough symptoms.
- Quercetin: Quercetin is a flavonoid with anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and swelling in the airways, thereby alleviating cough and congestion.
- S-allylcysteine: S-Allylcysteine is a sulfur-containing compound that has been shown to have mucolytic properties, helping to break down and clear mucus, making it easier to cough up and relieve respiratory congestion.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of garlic used to make capsules for cough.
- Rhyzomes: They are used due to their high concentration of active compounds like allicin, which possesses expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Seeds: They are used as they contain oil rich in gamma-undecalactone, which has soothing effects on the respiratory system.
- Roots: They are used due to their rich content of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which help in reducing cough and congestion.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic garlic for cough.
- Harvest 50 grams of fresh allium sativum rhizomes when the tops begin to yellow and fall over.
- Dry the harvested rhizomes in a well-ventilated area for 7-10 days at 35-40 degrees celsius.
- Grind the dried rhizomes into a fine powder using a mill or grinder for 30 seconds.
- Mix 250 milligrams of the powder with 250 milligrams of a natural binder and 50 milligrams of a filler.
- Fill empty gelatin capsules with the mixture and seal them immediately to maintain potency.
5. Ginkgo biloba
Maidenhair tree capsules helps with cough because they contain compounds that soothe and calm the respiratory tract, reducing inflammation and irritation.
The capsules' anti-inflammatory properties help to ease congestion and make it easier to expel mucus, providing quick relief from coughs.
Additionally, the antioxidants present in the capsules work to strengthen the body's natural defenses against infections, helping to shorten the duration and severity of a cough.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba capsules that help with cough.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds help alleviate cough by reducing inflammation and fighting free radicals in the respiratory tract, thus soothing and calming the irritated tissues.
- Bilobalide: This triterpene derivative has anti-inflammatory properties that help in reducing congestion and inflammation in the airways, making breathing easier and lessening cough severity.
- Quercetin: A type of flavonoid, quercetin is an effective bronchodilator that helps relax and open up airways, thereby reducing cough frequency and intensity by improving airflow and reducing inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make capsules for cough.
- Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of flavonoids and terpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe a cough.
- Seeds: The seeds are used due to their ginkgolic acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the throat and alleviate cough symptoms.
- Roots: The roots are used due to their rich content of ginkgoflavonoids, which can help reduce mucus production and alleviate cough symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for cough.
- Harvest 500g of dried ginkgo biloba leaves from a reliable supplier or cultivate them in your garden.
- Dry the harvested leaves in a low-temperature oven at 50c for 24 hours to preserve potency.
- Grind the dried leaves into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle or a high-speed grinder.
- Mix the powder with 500g of gelatin capsules and 100g of tapioca starch in a large bowl.
- Fill empty gelatin capsules with the ginkgo biloba powder mixture using a capsule filler machine.
6. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion capsules helps with cough because they contain compounds that have natural expectorant properties, helping to loosen and clear out mucus from the lungs.
The plant's anti-inflammatory properties also reduce swelling in the airways, making it easier to breathe and alleviating congestion.
Additionally, dandelion's antiviral and antibacterial properties help combat infections that can cause coughs, promoting a faster recovery and relief from persistent coughing fits.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale capsules that help with cough.
- Inulin: Inulin is a prebiotic fiber that helps soothe and calm the respiratory tract, reducing cough symptoms.
- Taraxasterol: Taraxasterol is a triterpene saponin that exhibits anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, helping to clear mucus and reduce coughing.
- Taraxasterol acetate: Taraxasterol acetate is a triterpene saponin that has been shown to inhibit coughing by suppressing the release of histamine and other inflammatory mediators in the airways.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make capsules for cough.
- Leaves: Leaves are used due to their high content of mucilages, which help to soothe and calm the respiratory system.
- Flowers: Flowers are used for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help to reduce cough and congestion.
- Roots: Roots are used due to their rich content of inulin, a prebiotic that can help to regulate digestion and reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for cough.
- Harvest 100g of fresh taraxacum officinale roots and dry them in a low-temperature oven at 50°c for 2 hours.
- Grind the dried roots into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 10 minutes.
- Mix 50g of the powdered taraxacum officinale roots with 10g of gelatin in a bowl.
- Use a capsule machine to fill empty gelatin capsules with the taraxacum officinale-gelatin mixture for 30 minutes.
- Store the herbal taraxacum officinale capsules in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight for 6 months.
7. Foeniculum vulgare
Fennel capsules helps with cough because they contain a unique combination of compounds that work together to soothe and calm the respiratory tract.
The active ingredients in fennel, such as volatile oils and flavonoids, have natural anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation and irritation in the throat and airways.
As a result, fennel capsules can provide rapid relief from coughing fits by easing congestion and soothing the irritated mucous membranes, allowing for easier breathing and relaxation.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare capsules that help with cough.
- Anethole: Anethole acts as an expectorant, helping to loosen and clear mucus from the respiratory tract, thereby reducing coughing.
- Trans-anethole: Trans-anethole has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract and alleviate cough symptoms.
- Foeniculin: Foeniculin exhibits expectorant and antitussive (cough-suppressing) properties, making it effective in treating cough and other respiratory issues.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make capsules for cough.
- Seeds: Used for their carminative and expectorant properties to help relieve coughs and congestion.
- Leaves: Used for their anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties to help soothe coughs and calm the respiratory system.
- Roots: Used for their expectorant and antispasmodic properties to help relieve coughs and congestion, and to calm the respiratory system.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for cough.
- Harvest 20g of dried foeniculum vulgare leaves and flowers from certified organic sources.
- Grind the dried foeniculum vulgare into a fine powder using a high-speed grinder within 3 minutes.
- Mix 1 part of the foeniculum vulgare powder with 2 parts of a binding agent like gelatin within 2 minutes.
- Fill empty gelatin capsules with the foeniculum vulgare mixture using a capsule filling machine within 5 minutes.
- Store the herbal foeniculum vulgare capsules in a cool dry place for up to 2 years.
8. Zingiber officinale
Ginger capsules helps with cough because of their natural anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce inflammation in the throat and airways.
The active compound gingerol in these capsules has been shown to thin mucus and loosen congestion, making it easier to expel.
Additionally, ginger's natural antibacterial and antiviral properties can help combat underlying infections that may be contributing to the cough.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale capsules that help with cough.
- Gingerols: These iridoid compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce inflammation in the throat and airways, thereby alleviating cough symptoms.
- Shogaols: Similar to gingerols, shogaols also possess anti-inflammatory properties that aid in soothing the irritated throat and airways, making it easier to manage cough.
- Curcuminoids: Curcuminoids, particularly curcumin, have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce the severity of cough by alleviating inflammation and oxidative stress in the respiratory system.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make capsules for cough.
- Rhyzomes: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of gingerol, a compound that helps to reduce inflammation and soothe coughs.
- Roots: The roots of Zingiber officinale also contain gingerol and other active compounds that help to relieve cough and congestion.
- Buds: Ginger buds, which are the young shoots of the rhizome, are sometimes used for their medicinal properties, including their ability to help alleviate coughs.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for cough.
- Harvest 30 grams of fresh zingiber officinale rhizomes for their medicinal properties.
- Dry the harvested rhizomes in a warm oven at 50°c for 24 hours.
- Grind the dried rhizomes into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Mix 250 milligrams of the powder with 500 milligrams of gelatin in a bowl.
- Fill empty capsules with the mixture and seal them immediately to preserve freshness.
9. Matricaria chamomilla
Chamomile capsules helps with cough because they contain apigenin, an antioxidant that soothes the throat and eases inflammation.
When taken orally, chamomile's anti-inflammatory properties work to calm the irritated mucous membranes in the respiratory tract, reducing congestion and relieving a persistent cough.
Additionally, chamomile's sedative effects can help promote relaxation, making it easier for the body to recover from an illness that causes coughing.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla capsules that help with cough.
- Apigenin: An apigenin is a flavonoid that acts as an antispasmodic, which helps to relax the muscles in the airways and reduce coughing spasms.
- Matricaria ester: This compound has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce inflammation in the airways and alleviate cough symptoms.
- Α-bisabolol: α-Bisabolol is a sesquiterpene that has anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, helping to thin mucus and make it easier to expel, thus relieving cough symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make capsules for cough.
- Flowers: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which help to relieve cough and calm the throat.
- Leaves: They are used for their medicinal properties, which include reducing inflammation and congestion, making them suitable for cough relief.
- Seeds: They are used due to their expectorant properties, which help to loosen and clear mucus from the airways, relieving cough and congestion.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for cough.
- Harvest 20-30 dried matricaria chamomilla flowers for a minimum of 100 capsules.
- Crush the flowers into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 10 minutes.
- Sift the powder through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps or large particles.
- Fill a capsule machine with 200-250 milligrams of the sifted powder for each capsule.
- Seal the capsules using a capsule machine and store them in an airtight container.
10. Stevia rebaudiana
Stevia capsules helps with cough because they contain natural compounds that soothe and calm the throat, reducing inflammation and congestion.
The herbal extracts in these capsules have antimicrobial properties, which help to combat the underlying infection causing the cough. Additionally, stevia's natural sweetness can help to coat the throat, providing relief from irritation and discomfort.
As a result, stevia capsules can be an effective way to alleviate cough symptoms and promote overall respiratory health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Stevia rebaudiana capsules that help with cough.
- Rebaudioside a: This compound has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the airways and alleviate cough symptoms.
- Steviol glycosides: These compounds have been found to have expectorant properties, helping to loosen and clear mucus from the airways, making it easier to cough up.
- Catechins: These phenolic compounds have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the airways, leading to relief from cough symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of stevia used to make capsules for cough.
- Leaves: Stevia leaves contain glycosides, particularly stevioside and rebaudioside, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe a sore throat and calm a cough.
- Roots: Stevia roots are a rich source of antioxidants and have been traditionally used to treat respiratory issues, including coughs, due to their expectorant properties that help clear mucus.
- (optional) leaves: However, some sources may recommend using the leaves again for their antiviral properties which might help in reducing the severity of a cough.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stevia for cough.
- Harvest stevia rebaudiana leaves in the morning when they are fresh and at their peak potency.
- Dry the stevia rebaudiana leaves in a single layer at room temperature for 7 to 10 days.
- Grind the dried stevia rebaudiana leaves into a fine powder using a coffee grinder.
- Mix 50 grams of stevia rebaudiana powder with 50 grams of microcrystalline cellulose in a bowl.
- Fill 100 to 200 herbal stevia rebaudiana capsules using a capsule filling machine in 10 minutes.
What is the best combination of herbal capsules to use for cough?
The best combination of herbal capsules that help with cough is a blend of Echinacea, Ginger, and Thyme.
Echinacea enhances the immune system, while Ginger soothes the throat and reduces inflammation. Thyme, with its antimicrobial properties, helps combat infections. This trio works synergistically to alleviate cough symptoms, reduce congestion, and promote overall respiratory health.
By incorporating these capsules into your daily routine, you can effectively manage coughs and support your body's natural healing processes.
What ailments similar to cough are treated with herbal capsules?
Ailments similar to cough/capsules.html">cough/capsules.html">cough that are treated with herbal capsules are respiratory issues such as bronchitis, asthma, and sinusitis.
Herbal supplements like eucalyptus, ginger, and licorice root help soothe inflamed airways and reduce congestion.
Additionally, herbal capsules may also be used to treat allergies, colds, and flu by boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation.