6 Expectorant Remedies For Phlegm

One of the most irritating symptoms when we have the flu, cold or allergies is coughing up phlegm. In this regard, some expectorant remedies can be very effective in clearing mucus and relieving irritation and congestion in the throat.

In this article we’ll  reveal the 6 best expectorant drugs, and explain how you can take them  to recover as quickly as possible.

6 expectorant medicines

1. Licorice

Licorice is a traditional remedy in many cultures, for example in Ayurverda medicine in India, thanks to its numerous healing properties. Among them, its expectorant, anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties stand out. In this sense, it is an excellent remedy for treating a cough with mucus and calming irritation in the respiratory tract.

How do we consume it?

• We can consume licorice in the form of an infusion or through caramels, candies, or pills.

• We can also eat licorice, that is, the root of this plant.
• It is important to note that people with high blood pressure should control their use of this medicine as they may experience high blood pressure.

2. fennel

Fennel is well known for its digestive properties, as it is a good remedy to combat gas and heavy digestion, and whet your appetite. It is also a common ingredient in the kitchen, as it provides a very pleasant sweet touch. However, fennel is also ideal for treating mucus coughing.

How do we consume it?

• We can consume fennel in an infusion, extract, or tincture.
• We can also consume it raw (salads, juices, shakes) or cooked (soups, creams, stews). This way we can prevent and treat cough in the most natural way.

3. Ginger

Ginger is an aromatic spice with a spicy, refreshing flavor with so many healing virtues that we should consume it daily, especially for women.

This root stimulates metabolism, eliminates excess fluid, and facilitates digestion. It is also one of the best expectorant medicines, as it calms the cough and favors the elimination of mucus. It is a good option for children’s cough.

How do we consume it?

• A good way to benefit from ginger is to make tea and drink it hot, sweetened with honey. We can use fresh root (sliced ​​or grated) or powdered.
• We can also find different types of ginger candies.

• As a curiosity, Asian cuisine also usually prepares it in pickles.

4. White eucalyptus

White eucalyptus is a powerful antiseptic very suitable for respiratory disorders such as coughing.

how to consume it

• We can take it as an infusion, tincture, or apply it topically through its essential oil. In the latter case, we must combine it with a vegetable oil (coconut, olive, almond, jojoba, etc.).
• Another excellent way to benefit from white eucalyptus is through misting. Especially for children, because for them it can be very strong.

By inhaling the steam from the eucalyptus decoction we will achieve an immediate decongestant and calming effect.

5. Cinnamon

Cinnamon is an exotic spice with a sweet and aromatic flavor. In addition to being an ideal ingredient in all types of sweet recipes, in many cultures it is also added to savory dishes to improve flavor and digestion. In this case we  recommend cinnamon to treat different types of cough: with mucus, dry, or chronic.

how to consume it

• We can drink cinnamon in hot infusion.
• We can also combine it with other medicinal plants and sweeten it with honey or stevia, although its flavor is already sweet.
• If we wish,  we can consume its essential oil, but in very small amounts, and always diluted in olive oil or honey.

6. Garlic

Garlic is a powerful natural antibiotic that helps treat colds, flu, inflammation or bronchitis, and some common symptoms such as congestion, cough or sore throat. In this way, eating garlic can also be a preventive method to strengthen the immune system.

How do we consume it?

• To achieve these benefits, it is best to eat raw garlic.
• Those who have difficulty digesting it can include it in raw vegetable juices, or smear it on toast.
• You can also find garlic capsules.