10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Coughing Fits

Herbal tinctures for coughing fits are concentrated liquid extracts made from plants that have natural anti-inflammatory, expectorant, and antiseptic properties.

These tinctures help alleviate coughing fits by soothing the throat, reducing inflammation, and loosening mucus, thereby providing quick relief from chronic coughs and congestion. For example, eucalyptus, ginger, and licorice root tinctures are popular remedies for coughs, as they provide instant relief and reduce discomfort.

By using these herbal tinctures, people can breathe easier, sleep better, and enjoy a improved quality of life despite the presence of chronic coughing fits.

The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for coughing fits, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice tinctures helps with coughing fits because they contain glycyrrhizin, a compound that soothes and calms irritated mucous membranes in the throat.

This natural ingredient reduces inflammation and relaxes the airways, making it easier to breathe and reducing the frequency and severity of coughs. Additionally, herbal licorice tinctures often combine with other soothing herbs like thyme, slippery elm, and marshmallow root, which further amplify their calming effects on the respiratory system.

As a result, licorice tinctures have been traditionally used to ease symptoms of bronchitis, pneumonia, and other respiratory infections that cause persistent coughing fits.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures that help with coughing fits.

• Glycyrrhizin: A triterpenoid saponin, glycyrrhizin has anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties that help to soothe and calm the respiratory tract, reducing the frequency and severity of coughing fits.
• Liquiritin: A phenolic compound, liquiritin has expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties that help to loosen and clear mucus from the airways, making it easier to breathe and reducing coughing fits.
• Licodione: A phenolic compound, licodione has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to soothe and protect the respiratory tract, reducing inflammation and irritation that can contribute to coughing fits.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make tinctures for coughing fits.

• Roots: The roots are used to make tinctures for coughing fits due to their high glycyrrhizin content, which has anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties.
• Leaves: The leaves are used to make tinctures for coughing fits due to their ability to help loosen and clear mucus from the lungs.
• Seeds: The seeds are used to make tinctures for coughing fits due to their expectorant properties, which help to relieve coughing and congestion.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for coughing fits.

1. Harvest fresh roots of glycyrrhiza glabra from a reputable source in late summer or early fall.
2. Clean and chop the harvested roots into small pieces using a sharp knife or tool.
3. Steep the chopped roots in a neutral solvent such as ethanol or glycerin at a ratio of 1:2 for 2-6 weeks.
4. Strain the solvent from the roots through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container.
5. Store the resulting tincture in a cool dark place for at least 4 weeks before use allowing the flavors to mature.

2. Sambucus nigra

Elder tinctures helps with coughing fits because of its natural anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties.

The tincture contains compounds like flavonoids, saponins, and anthocyanins that help soothe the mucous membranes in the throat and lungs, reducing inflammation and discomfort. Additionally, elder tincture's expectorant properties loosen and clear out mucus, making it easier to cough up and relieve congestion.

This natural remedy provides fast and effective relief from chronic coughing fits, helping to ease the discomfort and promote a peaceful night's sleep.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sambucus nigra tinctures that help with coughing fits.

• Sambunigrin: This glycoside has been found to have a soothing effect on the respiratory tract, reducing inflammation and helping to calm coughing fits.
• Vitamin c: As an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, vitamin C in Sambucus nigra helps to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the airways, making it easier to breathe and alleviating coughing fits.
• Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, which help to reduce the severity of coughing fits by inhibiting the replication of respiratory viruses and reducing inflammation in the airways.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of elder used to make tinctures for coughing fits.

• Flowers: They are used due to their high content of bioactive compounds, particularly flavonoids and anthocyanins, which have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that help soothe coughs.
• Buds: They are used because they contain similar bioactive compounds to the flowers, which help alleviate coughs and respiratory issues.
• Leaves: They are used due to their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help combat infections and reduce inflammation associated with coughing fits.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic elder for coughing fits.

1. Harvest sambucus nigra flowers and leaves in late summer when they are in full bloom to ensure optimal potency.
2. Clean the freshly harvested sambucus nigra flowers and leaves to remove dirt and debris thoroughly.
3. Combine 1 part sambucus nigra flowers and leaves with 2 parts vodka in a clean glass jar to create a 1:2 ratio.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking the jar daily to facilitate extraction.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle, discard the solids.

3. Thymus vulgaris

Thyme tinctures helps with coughing fits because of its potent antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.

The essential oils present in thyme, such as thymol and carvacrol, have been shown to help reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract, calming the mucous membranes and relieving congestion. Additionally, thyme's natural antibacterial properties can help combat infections that may be contributing to the cough.

By using a herbal thyme tincture, individuals can experience quick and effective relief from persistent coughing fits.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus vulgaris tinctures that help with coughing fits.

• Thymol: Thymol is a monoterpenic phenol that exhibits expectorant properties, helping to loosen and clear mucus from the airways and alleviate coughing fits.
• Carvacrol: Carvacrol is a phenolic monoterpene with antimicrobial properties that can help reduce the severity of coughing fits by targeting and eliminating the underlying infection or inflammation.
• Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid is a polyphenolic compound with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help soothe and calm the respiratory tract, reducing the frequency and severity of coughing fits.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make tinctures for coughing fits.

• Leaves: Thyme leaves are used due to their high concentration of thymol, a compound that has antimicrobial and expectorant properties, helping to ease coughs and relieve congestion.
• Flowers: Thyme flowers are used for their calming effects and to help soothe a sore throat, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with coughing fits.
• Buds: Thyme buds are used for their concentrated thymol content and to provide an intense, quick-acting effect in relieving coughs, as they are often more potent than leaves.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme for coughing fits.

1. Harvest a sufficient amount of fresh thymus vulgaris leaves and flowers in the morning or early afternoon.
2. Dry the harvested plant material by spreading it out in a single layer on paper bags or trays for several days.
3. Combine the dried thymus vulgaris plant material with a carrier solvent such as ethanol 80% 1 part thymus vulgaris to 2 parts solvent in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the jar every few days to facilitate extraction.
5. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discard the solids and store the tincture in a cool dark place.

4. Mentha x piperita

Peppermint tinctures helps with coughing fits because of its natural expectorant properties.

The menthol content in peppermint helps to thin out mucus, making it easier to expel from the lungs and throat. This relief can provide instant comfort for those suffering from persistent coughs.

Additionally, peppermint's calming effects on the respiratory tract can also help to reduce inflammation and ease congestion, further alleviating coughing fits.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita tinctures that help with coughing fits.

• Menthol: A monoterpenoid compound that helps to reduce inflammation and relieve coughing by thinning mucus and promoting expectoration.
• Menthone: A monoterpenoid compound that acts as a bronchodilator, helping to relax the airways and alleviate coughing by making breathing easier.
• Eucalyptol: A terpene that helps to reduce inflammation and relieve coughing by thinning mucus and promoting expectoration, also exhibiting expectorant and bronchodilatory effects.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make tinctures for coughing fits.

• Leaves: The leaves of Mentha x piperita are the most commonly used part for making tinctures due to their high concentration of menthol and menthone, which have natural expectorant properties that help relieve coughs and congestion.
• Stems: The stems of Mentha x piperita contain a high amount of menthol and other volatile oils, making them a popular choice for tinctures aimed at soothing coughs and easing respiratory issues.
• Roots: The roots of Mentha x piperita are also used to make tinctures, as they contain a higher concentration of menthone and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the throat and alleviate coughing fits.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for coughing fits.

1. Harvest 1 cup of fresh mentha x piperita leaves and flowers in the morning for optimal potency.
2. Chop the herbs into small pieces using a sharp knife to increase surface area for extraction.
3. Combine the chopped herbs with 2 cups of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks, shaking daily.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.

5. Verbascum thapsus

Mullein tinctures helps with coughing fits because it contains rosmarinic acid, which has potent anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and calm irritated respiratory tissues.

The tannins in mullein also work to reduce inflammation and excess mucus production, making it easier to expel congestion from the lungs. As a natural expectorant, mullein tinctures can loosen and clear phlegm from the airways, providing fast relief from persistent coughing fits.

By addressing the underlying causes of coughing, mullein tinctures offer a safe and effective way to manage respiratory symptoms and promote overall lung health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Verbascum thapsus tinctures that help with coughing fits.

• Saponins: These compounds help to reduce inflammation and soothe the mucous membranes in the throat, which can become irritated and inflamed during a coughing fit.
• Mucilages: As a thick, protective substance, mucilages help to calm and soothe the mucous membranes in the throat, reducing inflammation and irritation that can trigger coughing fits.
• Flavonoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, helping to reduce inflammation in the throat and airways while also promoting the removal of mucus, which can help to alleviate coughing fits.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of mullein used to make tinctures for coughing fits.

• Leaves: The leaves of Verbascum thapsus are used to make tinctures for coughing fits due to their expectorant properties, helping to loosen and clear mucus from the lungs.
• Flowers: The flowers of Verbascum thapsus are used to make tinctures for coughing fits due to their anti-inflammatory and demulcent properties, which soothe and protect the mucous membranes.
• Stems: The stems of Verbascum thapsus are used to make tinctures for coughing fits due to their antimicrobial properties, helping to combat infections that can cause coughing.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic mullein for coughing fits.

1. Harvest verbascum thapsus flowers and leaves in the early morning or late afternoon when the plant is at its highest moisture content.
2. Dry the harvested plant material in a warm dark place for at least two weeks or until it reaches 10 moisture content.
3. Grind the dried verbascum thapsus plant material into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle for 5 minutes.
4. Combine 100 grams of the powdered plant material with 500 milliliters of 95 ethanol in a glass jar and let it sit for 2 weeks.
5. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.

6. Paeonia lactiflora

Chinese peony tinctures helps with coughing fits because they contain powerful anti-inflammatory compounds that soothe the mucous membranes in the throat and lungs.

The tincture's active ingredients, such as baicalin and paeoniflorin, work to reduce inflammation and calm irritation, providing relief from persistent coughs and congestion.

As a natural expectorant, peony tincture also helps to loosen and clear mucus from the airways, allowing for easier breathing and a reduction in coughing fits.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Paeonia lactiflora tinctures that help with coughing fits.

• Flavonoids: These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the throat and airways, alleviating coughing fits.
• Triterpenoids: Paeoniflorin has been shown to have sedative and analgesic effects, which can help calm the nervous system and reduce the frequency and severity of coughing fits.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds possess anti-inflammatory and spasmolytic properties, which can help relax the muscles in the throat and airways, reducing coughing fits.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of chinese peony used to make tinctures for coughing fits.

• Roots: The roots of Paeonia lactiflora contain paeonol, an anti-inflammatory compound that may help reduce coughing and inflammation.
• Flowers: The flowers of Paeonia lactiflora are rich in flavonoids and glycosides, which may help soothe a sore throat and calm coughing.
• Barks: The barks of Paeonia lactiflora may contain phenolic compounds that have anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, helping to relieve coughing and congestion.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chinese peony for coughing fits.

1. Gather fresh paeonia lactiflora flowers and leaves in the morning after the dew has dried completely.
2. Chop 500g of the gathered plant material into smaller pieces to increase surface area for extraction.
3. Steep the chopped plant material in 2 liters of 25% ethanol for 2-3 weeks in a cool dark place.
4. Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container discarding the solids.
5. Store the herbal tincture in a cool dark place and allow it to mature for 2-3 months before using.

7. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion tinctures helps with coughing fits because of its unique properties that soothe and calm irritated respiratory passages.

The herb's anti-inflammatory compounds, such as taraxasterol and sesquiterpene lactones, help to reduce inflammation and congestion in the lungs and bronchial tubes. Additionally, dandelion's expectorant properties help to loosen and clear out mucus and phlegm from the airways, allowing for easier breathing and relief from coughing fits.

As a result, herbal dandelion tinctures can provide natural and effective relief from persistent and annoying coughs.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale tinctures that help with coughing fits.

• Taraxasterol: A triterpene saponin that helps reduce inflammation and irritation in the respiratory tract, thereby alleviating coughing fits.
• Polysaccharides: Complex carbohydrates that stimulate the immune system, enhance mucus clearance, and exhibit anti-inflammatory properties to combat coughing and respiratory issues.
• Inulin: A fructan that exhibits anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, helping to break down mucus and reduce coughing fits by facilitating easy expulsion of mucus from the respiratory tract.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make tinctures for coughing fits.

• Leaves: Used due to their high content of flavonoids and saponins, which have anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties that help alleviate coughs.
• Roots: Utilized for their rich source of sesquiterpene lactones, which have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties that help soothe coughs.
• Flowers: Employed for their high concentration of volatile oils and flavonoids, which have expectorant properties that help loosen mucus and provide relief from coughing fits.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for coughing fits.

1. Harvest 1 to 2 pounds of fresh taraxacum officinale flowers and leaves on a sunny day.
2. Chop the harvested taraxacum officinale into small pieces to increase their surface area for better extraction.
3. Combine 1 part chopped taraxacum officinale with 2 parts vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking it occasionally.
5. Strain the liquid from the jar through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar.

8. Verbena officinalis

Lemon verbena tinctures helps with coughing fits because of its soothing properties, which calm the irritations in the throat and lungs.

The herbal extract contains citral and limonene, compounds that have natural anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, helping to reduce inflammation and combat infection. Additionally, lemon verbena's expectorant qualities loosen mucus and phlegm, making it easier to expel, providing quick relief from coughing fits.

As a result, herbal lemon verbena tinctures offer a natural and effective way to alleviate persistent and stubborn coughs.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Verbena officinalis tinctures that help with coughing fits.

• Verbenalin: A phenanthraquinone derivative that acts as an expectorant, helping to relieve coughing fits by thinning mucus and making it easier to expel.
• Verbascoside: A phenylethanoid glycoside that possesses anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and irritation in the respiratory tract, thereby alleviating coughing fits.
• Verbenone: A monoterpene that exhibits expectorant and bronchodilatory effects, helping to ease coughing fits by relaxing the airway muscles and facilitating the expulsion of mucus.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of lemon verbena used to make tinctures for coughing fits.

• Leaves: The leaves are used to make tinctures because they contain bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which help soothe coughs and reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract.
• Roots: The roots are used to make tinctures because they contain a significant amount of volatile oils and other compounds that help to relax the muscles in the throat and airways, reducing coughing fits.
• Flowers: The flowers are used to make tinctures because they contain flavonoids and other compounds that have expectorant properties, helping to loosen and clear mucus from the respiratory tract.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon verbena for coughing fits.

1. Harvest fresh verbena officinalis leaves and flowers in the morning to ensure optimal potency and flavor.
2. Dry the harvested verbena officinalis in a single layer at room temperature for 7 to 10 days.
3. Combine 1 part dried verbena officinalis with 2 parts vodka in a clean glass jar to create a 1:2 ratio.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks, shaking the jar daily for optimal infusion.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle, discarding the solids.

9. Foeniculum vulgare

Fennel tinctures helps with coughing fits because of its natural expectorant properties, which help to loosen and clear out mucus from the lungs and airways.

The antispasmodic effects of fennel also help to relax and soothe the respiratory muscles, reducing the severity and frequency of coughing episodes. Additionally, fennel's anti-inflammatory properties can help to reduce inflammation in the throat and lungs, further alleviating symptoms of a cough.

Overall, herbal fennel tinctures provide a natural and effective solution for managing coughing fits and promoting respiratory health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare tinctures that help with coughing fits.

• Anethole: Anethole acts as an expectorant, helping to relieve coughs by increasing the production of mucus and promoting its expulsion from the respiratory tract.
• Fenchone: Fenchone possesses anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory properties, which help to reduce inflammation in the airways and make breathing easier, thereby alleviating coughing fits.
• Eugenol: Eugenol exhibits antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to combat respiratory infections and reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract, ultimately contributing to relief from coughing fits.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make tinctures for coughing fits.

• Seeds: Foeniculum vulgare seeds are the most commonly used part for making tinctures to relieve coughing fits due to their high concentration of carvone and limonene, which have expectorant properties.
• Leaves: Foeniculum vulgare leaves are used to make tinctures for coughing fits because they contain a rich source of volatile oils, including anethole, which has anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties.
• Roots: Foeniculum vulgare roots are another key part used to make tinctures, as they contain a significant amount of coumarin, which helps to reduce inflammation and relieve coughing fits.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for coughing fits.

1. Harvest 100 grams of foeniculum vulgare roots and leaves on a dry sunny day.
2. Chop the harvested foeniculum vulgare into small pieces using a sharp knife.
3. Combine 100 grams of chopped foeniculum vulgare with 500 milliliters of 80 proof vodka in a glass jar.
4. Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks, shaking the jar daily.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into another glass container, discarding the solids.

10. Echinacea angustifolia

Kansas coneflower tinctures helps with coughing fits because of its natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.

The herb, native to the Great Plains region, contains compounds that soothe irritated airways and reduce inflammation in the throat and lungs. By reducing swelling and fighting off infections, Kansas coneflower tinctures can help alleviate the severity of coughing fits, providing relief from congestion and discomfort.

This natural remedy can be especially effective for those suffering from respiratory issues, such as bronchitis or asthma, where conventional medications may not provide adequate relief.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia tinctures that help with coughing fits.

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, which help to reduce the severity and frequency of coughing fits by soothing the respiratory tract and modulating the immune response.
• Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids, such as 11α-hydroxy-9β,13β-dihydroxy-3-oxo-9α,11α-eudesman-12,15-dienoic acid, have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antitussive (cough-suppressing) activities, which help to alleviate coughing fits.
• Alkamides: Alkamides, such as isobutylamides and isovalerylamides, have been found to possess anti-inflammatory and spasmolytic (muscle-relaxing) properties, which help to reduce coughing fits by relaxing the smooth muscles in the respiratory tract and reducing inflammation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make tinctures for coughing fits.

• Roots: They contain high concentrations of echinacoside and alkaloids, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe the respiratory tract.
• Roots: They also contain echinulin, a glycoside that has been shown to possess antimicrobial properties, which can help combat underlying infections causing the cough.
• Roots: The root system is rich in other bioactive compounds that contribute to its anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and immunomodulatory effects, making it a popular choice for cough remedies.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for coughing fits.

1. Harvest 1 cup of dried roots of echinacea angustifolia at peak potency and store them in a cool dark place.
2. Combine the dried roots with 2 cups of 80-proof vodka in a clean glass jar and seal it tightly.
3. Allow the mixture to steep in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the jar daily.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container discarding the solids.
5. Transfer the echinacea tincture to a dark glass bottle and store it in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.

What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for coughing fits?

The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with coughing fits is often a blend of Thyme, Echinacea, and Licorice Root.

Thyme's antimicrobial properties help combat underlying infections, while Echinacea's immune-boosting effects reduce inflammation and promote recovery. Licorice Root soothes the throat and calms the coughing reflex. Taking 20-30 drops of each tincture in water, 2-3 times a day, can provide relief from persistent coughing and promote overall respiratory health.

Consult with a healthcare professional before using herbal remedies.

What ailments similar to coughing fits are treated with herbal tinctures?

Ailments similar to coughing fits that are treated with herbal tinctures are respiratory issues such as bronchitis, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Herbal tinctures like thyme, eucalyptus, and wild cherry bark can help alleviate symptoms of congestion, wheezing, and tightness in the chest.

They also reduce inflammation and relax airways, making it easier to breathe and manage coughs.