10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Dry Cough

Herbal decoctions for dry cough are a natural remedy made by steeping herbs in hot water to create a soothing drink.

These decoctions help alleviate dry, irritating coughs by loosening mucus and reducing inflammation in the throat. For example, thyme, honey, and ginger are popular herbal decoctions that have been used to calm coughs and ease congestion.

By drinking these decoctions, people with dry cough can experience relief from persistent hacking and coughing, allowing them to sleep better, breathe easier, and enjoy daily activities without discomfort.

The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for dry cough, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice decoctions helps with dry cough because it provides a soothing and protective coating to the throat, reducing irritation and inflammation.

The glycyrrhizin present in licorice root has anti-inflammatory properties that help to calm the mucous membranes, allowing for easier removal of phlegm and mucus. This helps to relieve congestion and dryness, providing quick relief from uncomfortable coughing fits.

Additionally, licorice decoctions can also help to reduce cough frequency by coating the throat and reducing the urge to cough.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra decoctions that help with dry cough.

• Licoricidin: A triterpenoid saponin, licoricidin has anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe the throat and reduce inflammation associated with dry cough.
• Licorice glycosides: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, which help thin mucus and reduce inflammation in the airways, thereby alleviating dry cough.
• Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the respiratory tract, making them beneficial for dry cough relief.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make decoctions for dry cough.

• Roots: The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra are widely used due to their high content of glycyrrhizin, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties that help relieve dry cough.
• Leaves: The leaves of the plant are used to make decoctions for dry cough because they contain flavonoids and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antitussive (cough-suppressing) effects.
• Barks: The barks of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make decoctions for dry cough due to their content of saponins, which are known for their expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties that help relieve coughing.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for dry cough.

1. Harvest glycyrrhiza glabra roots in autumn after the first frost when the plant is fully mature.
2. Clean and dry 10g of glycyrrhiza glabra roots in a low-temperature oven for 2 hours.
3. Chop the dried roots into small pieces and combine with 1l of water in a pot.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
5. Strain the decoction and discard the solids then store the liquid in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

2. Mentha x piperita

Peppermint decoctions helps with dry cough because of its natural expectorant properties that help loosen and clear mucus from the airways.

The menthol content in peppermint soothes and relaxes the throat muscles, reducing inflammation and discomfort caused by a dry cough.

Additionally, peppermint's anti-inflammatory compounds reduce swelling in the nasal passages and sinuses, allowing for easier breathing and alleviating congestion often associated with dry coughs.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita decoctions that help with dry cough.

• Menthol: Menthol helps with dry cough by creating a cooling sensation in the throat, temporarily numbing the pain and reducing inflammation.
• Limonene: Limonene has expectorant properties, helping to loosen and clear mucus from the airways, making it easier to cough up and relieve dry cough symptoms.
• Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid has anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce inflammation in the throat and airways, providing relief from dry cough and promoting healing.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make decoctions for dry cough.

• Leaves: Most commonly used due to their high concentration of menthol and menthone, which help to relieve cough and congestion.
• Stems: Used for their strong, pungent flavor and aroma, which can help to break down and clear mucus from the airways.
• Rhyzomes: Utilized for their ability to stimulate digestion and relieve congestion, thanks to their rich content of menthol and other essential oils.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for dry cough.

1. Harvest fresh mentha x piperita leaves and flowers from a healthy plant in the morning.
2. Weigh 2-3 grams of the harvested material and chop it into small pieces to release oils.
3. Combine the chopped plant material with 200 milliliters of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
4. Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes or until the liquid has cooled down to room temperature.
5. Strain the liquid using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove solids.

3. Thymus vulgaris

Thyme decoctions helps with dry cough because it contains compounds such as thymol, which have natural expectorant properties.

When consumed as a warm drink or added to food, thyme decoctions help to loosen and clear out mucus and phlegm from the lungs and airways, providing relief from stubborn dry coughs.

Additionally, thyme's anti-inflammatory effects may also help to reduce irritation and inflammation in the throat and chest, further soothing the discomfort associated with dry coughing.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus vulgaris decoctions that help with dry cough.

• Thymol: Acts as a bronchodilator and anti-inflammatory agent, helping to relax the airway muscles and reduce inflammation, thereby easing dry cough symptoms.
• Carvacrol: Exhibits antimicrobial properties, which can help combat underlying infections that may be contributing to the dry cough, while also providing decongestant and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Rosmarinic acid: Possesses antitussive (cough-suppressing) and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce cough reflexes and alleviate inflammation in the respiratory tract, providing relief from dry cough.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make decoctions for dry cough.

• Leaves: Thymus vulgaris leaves are commonly used due to their high concentration of essential oils, particularly thymol, which has antimicrobial properties that help soothe and relieve dry cough.
• Flowers: Thymus vulgaris flowers are often used for their fragrance and flavor, and they contain thymol, a compound that helps to reduce inflammation and cough symptoms.
• Roots: Thymus vulgaris roots are sometimes used due to their ability to retain thymol, which is then released as the plant ages, providing a prolonged effect in treating dry cough and other respiratory issues.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme for dry cough.

1. Gather 2-3 tablespoons of fresh thymus vulgaris leaves or 1 teaspoon of dried leaves for decoction.
2. Combine the fresh or dried thymus vulgaris with 1 quart of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
3. Reduce heat to a simmer and steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes or until the liquid has reduced slightly.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container discarding the solids.
5. Store the herbal thymus vulgaris decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

4. Echinacea purpurea

Purple coneflower decoctions helps with dry cough because of its expectorant properties, which loosen and clear mucus from the airways.

The herb contains compounds that help to break down phlegm and reduce inflammation in the throat and lungs. This can provide relief from a dry, hacking cough by thinning out mucus and making it easier to expel.

Additionally, purple coneflower's anti-inflammatory properties may also help to soothe an irritated throat and reduce coughing spasms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea decoctions that help with dry cough.

• Ishagarin: A glycoside found in Echinacea purpurea, isharagrin helps to soothe and calm the respiratory tract, reducing inflammation and alleviating symptoms of dry cough.
• Cichoric acid: A phenolic compound in Echinacea purpurea, cichoric acid exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce inflammation in the airways and relieve dry cough symptoms.
• Alkylamides: A group of compounds in Echinacea purpurea, alkylamides have been shown to have immunomodulatory effects, helping to regulate the immune system's response to respiratory infections and alleviate symptoms of dry cough.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make decoctions for dry cough.

• Roots: Rich in echinacoside and alkylamides, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe dry coughs.
• Leaves: High in phenolic acids, flavonoids, and rosmarinic acid, which possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that aid in cough relief.
• Flowers: Contain flavonoids, alkylamides, and caffeic acid, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that help alleviate dry coughs.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for dry cough.

1. Gather 30 to 60 grams of dried echinacea purpurea roots and flowers and clean them thoroughly.
2. Combine the dried echinacea roots and flowers in a large pot with 1 liter of water.
3. Heat the mixture over medium heat for 5 to 10 minutes or until the liquid is boiling.
4. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes or until it has reduced slightly.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove solids.

5. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion decoctions helps with dry cough because of its natural expectorant properties, which loosen and clear out excess mucus and phlegm from the respiratory tract.

The plant's diuretic properties also help to thin and reduce inflammation in the throat and lungs, providing rapid relief from dry, hacking coughs.

Additionally, dandelion's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds soothe and calm the mucous membranes, reducing irritation and discomfort associated with persistent coughing.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale decoctions that help with dry cough.

• Taraxasterol: This triterpene helps with dry cough by reducing inflammation in the airways and exhibiting expectorant properties, making it easier to cough up mucus.
• Flavonoids: These phenolic compounds help with dry cough by reducing inflammation, modulating the immune response, and exhibiting antitussive properties, which can help alleviate coughing.
• Inulin: This polysaccharide helps with dry cough by promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, which can improve the body's immune response and reduce inflammation, ultimately helping to alleviate coughing.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make decoctions for dry cough.

• Roots: They contain inulin, a natural expectorant that helps loosen and clear mucus from the lungs, relieving dry cough.
• Leaves: The leaves contain taraxasterol and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe an irritated respiratory tract and reduce coughing.
• Flowers: The flowers contain flavonoids and other bioactive compounds that have a soothing effect on the respiratory system, helping to calm a dry cough.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for dry cough.

1. Harvest 30 to 60 grams of fresh taraxacum officinale roots and clean them thoroughly.
2. Chop the cleaned roots into small pieces to release their active compounds.
3. Combine the chopped roots with 2 liters of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to a simmer for 10 to 15 minutes to allow the decoction to infuse.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve to remove the solids.

6. Zingiber officinale

Ginger decoctions helps with dry cough because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce inflammation in the throat and chest.

The decoction's warming nature also helps to loosen and expel mucus, providing relief from congestion and discomfort. Additionally, ginger has natural expectorant properties that stimulate the body's natural clearance mechanisms, helping to bring up and clear out excess mucus and phlegm.

This combination of anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties makes ginger decoctions a popular remedy for soothing and alleviating dry cough symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale decoctions that help with dry cough.

• Gingerols: These gingerols, particularly [6]-gingerol, have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation in the throat and lungs, making it easier to relieve dry cough symptoms.
• Shogaols: Shogaols, also found in ginger, have antimicrobial properties that help combat infections responsible for dry coughs, such as the common cold or flu.
• Zingibain: Zingibain, a proteolytic enzyme found in ginger, has anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties that help break down and clear mucus from the respiratory tract, thereby relieving dry cough symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make decoctions for dry cough.

• Rhyzomes: The most commonly used part of Zingiber officinale for decoctions, due to their high concentration of active compounds such as gingerols and shogaols, which have anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties.
• Roots: The roots of Zingiber officinale are also used in decoctions to treat dry cough, as they contain similar active compounds to the rhyzomes.
• Stems: The stems of Zingiber officinale can be used in decoctions to treat dry cough, although they are less commonly used than the rhyzomes and roots.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for dry cough.

1. Harvest 1-2 inches of fresh zingiber officinale root for maximum flavor and potency.
2. Peel the root using a vegetable peeler to remove the outer layer.
3. Chop the peeled root into small pieces using a sharp knife for easier decoction.
4. Combine 1 teaspoon of chopped root with 1 cup of boiling water in a heat-resistant cup.
5. Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse into the water.

7. Sambucus nigra

Elder decoctions helps with dry cough because they provide a soothing and moisturizing effect on the throat and lungs.

The natural compounds present in elder flowers, such as flavonoids and triterpenes, have anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce congestion and ease irritation. Additionally, elder decoctions are rich in antioxidants, which can help to protect the mucous membranes from damage caused by dry air or irritants, leading to a reduction in coughing episodes.

This natural remedy can provide relief from dry cough symptoms without causing harm.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sambucus nigra decoctions that help with dry cough.

• Flavonoids: These plant compounds help to reduce inflammation and relax the airways, making it easier to cough up mucus and alleviate dry cough symptoms.
• Phenylethylamine alkaloid: These alkaloids have anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, which help to thin mucus and promote its expulsion from the lungs, relieving dry cough.
• Tannins: These polyphenolic compounds have anti-inflammatory and astringent properties that help to reduce swelling and soothe irritated mucous membranes, making it easier to breathe and alleviate dry cough symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of elder used to make decoctions for dry cough.

• Flowers: Rich in flavonoids and anthocyanins, which are known for their anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, helping to relieve dry cough.
• Leaves: Containing compounds like saponins and terpenoids, which have been traditionally used to soothe respiratory issues and ease coughs.
• Fruits: The berries of Sambucus nigra are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which contribute to their expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to alleviate dry cough.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic elder for dry cough.

1. Gather 25g of dried sambucus nigra berries in a clean and dry container for later use.
2. Crush the berries using a mortar and pestle to release their medicinal properties within 5 minutes.
3. Combine the crushed berries with 250ml of boiling water in a heat-resistant glass container.
4. Steep the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes in a warm and draft-free environment to allow infusion.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove solids.

8. Hyssopus officinalis

Hyssop decoctions helps with dry cough because of its natural expectorant properties.

The soothing extracts from the herb help to loosen and clear out mucus and phlegm that can irritate the throat and airways, providing fast relief from stubborn dry coughs. Additionally, hyssop's anti-inflammatory compounds reduce swelling in the respiratory tract, allowing for easier breathing and a more comfortable coughing experience.

This natural remedy is a safe and effective way to alleviate dry cough symptoms without relying on harsh chemicals or medications.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hyssopus officinalis decoctions that help with dry cough.

• Rosmarinic acid: A polyphenolic compound that helps reduce inflammation and relieve cough symptoms by exhibiting antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Hyssopin: A terpenoid compound that helps relax the respiratory tract muscles, reduce spasms, and ease coughing, making it easier to breathe.
• Urospermaldehyde: A sesquiterpene compound that has expectorant properties, helping to loosen and clear mucus from the airways, thus relieving dry cough symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of hyssop used to make decoctions for dry cough.

• Leaves: The leaves are used due to their high content of volatile oils, which have expectorant properties that help relieve dry cough.
• Stems: The stems are utilized for their antitussive and anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in soothing a dry cough.
• Flowers: The flowers are used for their antispasmodic and expectorant properties, which help to calm and relieve a dry cough.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic hyssop for dry cough.

1. Harvest the hyssopus officinalis leaves and flowers in the early morning or late afternoon to ensure optimal potency.
2. Dry the harvested hyssopus officinalis in a single layer at 40°c for 2 to 3 hours to preserve the plant's properties.
3. Combine one teaspoon of dried hyssopus officinalis with 250 milliliters of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
4. Steep the mixture for 5 to 7 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse into the water.
5. Strain the decoction through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean container to remove the solids.

9. Malva sylvestris

Mallow decoctions helps with dry cough because they provide a soothing and calming effect on the mucous membranes in the throat.

The anti-inflammatory properties of mallow help to reduce swelling and irritation, allowing for easier expectoration of phlegm and alleviating discomfort. Additionally, the demulcent nature of mallow creates a protective barrier that coats the throat, shielding it from further irritation and promoting healing.

This natural remedy is a gentle and effective way to provide relief from dry cough symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Malva sylvestris decoctions that help with dry cough.

• Mucilages: Mucilages help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the throat, reducing irritation and inflammation that contribute to dry cough.
• Flavonoids: Quercetin, a flavonoid present in Malva sylvestris, has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation in the throat and alleviate coughing.
• Saponins: Saponins in Malva sylvestris have expectorant properties, helping to loosen and clear mucus from the airways, making it easier to cough up and relieving dry cough symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of mallow used to make decoctions for dry cough.

• Leaves: They are rich in mucilage, which helps to soothe and calm the respiratory tract, reducing inflammation and relieving cough.
• Flowers: The flowers are a good source of flavonoids and saponins, which have anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, aiding in the relief of dry cough.
• Roots: The roots of Malva sylvestris contain mucilage and glycosides, which help to reduce inflammation and provide relief from dry cough by thinning mucus.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic mallow for dry cough.

1. Harvest 25g of dried flowers of malva sylvestris and store them in an airtight container.
2. Combine the dried flowers with 500ml of boiling water in a heat-resistant glass container.
3. Steep the mixture for 10-15 minutes then strain it using a fine mesh sieve.
4. Discard the solids and store the resulting decoction in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
5. Consume 50-100ml of the cooled decoction as needed to promote relaxation and soothe inflammation.

10. Foeniculum vulgare

Fennel decoctions helps with dry cough because of its natural expectorant properties, which help loosen and clear out mucus from the lungs and airways.

The active compounds in fennel, such as anethole and fenchone, also have anti-inflammatory effects that can reduce irritation and inflammation in the throat and respiratory tract, providing relief from a dry, hacking cough.

Additionally, fennel's soothing properties can help calm irritated mucous membranes, promoting healthy mucus production and further alleviating symptoms of a dry cough.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare decoctions that help with dry cough.

• Fenchone: A terpene that acts as an expectorant, helping to loosen and clear mucus from the airways, thereby relieving dry cough symptoms.
• Anethole: A phenolic compound with anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation in the airways and alleviate dry cough associated with respiratory conditions.
• Dihydroanethole: A phenolic compound that has been shown to exhibit expectorant and mucolytic properties, helping to break down and clear thick mucus, making it easier to cough up.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make decoctions for dry cough.

• Leaves: They are the most used part of Foeniculum vulgare due to their high concentration of volatile oils, which help to soothe and calm the respiratory system.
• Seeds: The seeds are used to make decoctions for dry cough due to their carminative properties, which help to expel gas and ease digestion.
• Stems: Stems are used in decoctions for dry cough because they contain a compound called fenchone, which has a decongestant effect and helps to relieve respiratory issues.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for dry cough.

1. Harvest 1/4 cup of dried foeniculum vulgare roots or 1/2 cup of fresh roots in early morning.
2. Chop the harvested foeniculum vulgare roots into small pieces to increase surface area for infusion.
3. Combine the chopped foeniculum vulgare roots with 2 cups of boiling water in a heat-resistant cup or teapot.
4. Steep the foeniculum vulgare mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse into water.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove solids.

What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for dry cough?

The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with dry cough is a blend of Slippery Elm, Licorice Root, and Thyme.

Slippery Elm soothes the mucous membranes, while Licorice Root helps to reduce inflammation and calm the throat. Thyme adds antibacterial properties, fighting off underlying infections that may be contributing to the cough. Together, these decoctions provide a gentle yet effective treatment for dry, persistent coughs, promoting healing and relief from discomfort.

This blend can be taken hot or cold, as needed.

What ailments similar to dry cough are treated with herbal decoctions?

Ailments similar to dry cough that are treated with herbal decoctions are bronchitis, asthma, and respiratory tract infections.

Herbal decoctions like ginger, turmeric, and licorice root help soothe irritated airways, reduce inflammation, and ease congestion.

They can also relieve symptoms of pharyngitis, laryngitis, and tonsillitis by reducing swelling and killing bacteria that cause infection.