Natural Remedy for Cough in Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a critical period for any woman, and symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, and a slight fever may not cause any harm to the newborn. Yet, it is necessary to deal with these symptoms suitably, so that there is no decrease in comfort, and a healthy pregnancy condition is maintained. Today we discuss the natural remedy for cough in pregnancy that will be helpful for a pregnant Woman.

Although there are many over-the-counter (OTC) medicines available for cough, pregnant women often think about the effects these drugs can have on their newborns. As home remedies are safe and effective for instant relief, such women, by trying suitable natural remedies, can get joy and feel fresh at all times.

So, let’s start brief introduction to cough, its causes during pregnancy with remedies

What is Cough?

A cough is an involuntary action that clears the throat or airways. The body may help in breathing, clearing the throat, and so on. This in turn helps to remove the phlegm produced in the stomach.

It is also known as a reflex action where the body helps to clear and pass the air from the lungs, nose, and throat.

Types of Cough:

Mainly, two types of cough are known:

1) Wet Cough or Productive

Here, phlegm, or mucus, is expelled from the lungs and throat. Normally associated with colds and related respiratory tract infections (RTI).

2) Dry Cough or Nonproductive

As the name implies here, no phlegm or sputum is produced. Normally associated with flu, allergies, and unwanted side effects of drugs.

Causes of Cough:

1) Acid Reflux (Gastroesophageal Reflux)

The food moving back, i.e., flows from the abdomen into the food pipe due to its acidic in nature, leaving the mouth bitter. This may be due to extra-abdominal pressure, improper food intake, or lower physical activity.

As per research, about 75 % of women suffer from acid reflux and stomach upset. This is the main cause of cough during pregnancy.

2) Asthma

Shortness of breath and dry cough in pregnancy may be felt during and after pregnancy. According to research, Bronchial asthma causes complications in five to eight percent of pregnancies. Hormonal and physical body changes mainly cause this asthma during pregnancy.

3) Allergies

Being allergic to substances such as dust, smoke, and other such conditions can inflame the throat causing congestion in the lungs and this may lead to cough.

Best Natural Remedy for Cough in Pregnancy:

1) Drink Plenty of Water

Water should be taken in plenty as dehydration can increase the risk of constipation and pregnancy may be at risk. By drinking adequate water, minerals are enriched, and our body’s resistance power increases.

2) Take Pineapple Juice

Pineapple being rich in nutrients, especially vitamin C helps in reducing inflammation and decreases pain in pregnant women. It also soothes the throat.

It is essential to take the juice in a moderate way, as excess of it may have a dangerous effect on both pregnant women and babies.

3) Drink Hot and Nutritious Soups

Consuming hot soup is an effective natural remedy for cough in pregnancy. As vegetable soup, especially tomato soup helps in anti-aging, it is healthy for women.

Also, for pregnant women, inhaling steam from a hot soup can help in getting relief from nasal congestion.

4) Taking Pregnancy Vitamins

It is essential to consume prenatal or antepartum vitamins during pregnancy. Normally, these vitamins have ingredients like vitamin C, vitamin D, and zinc, which not only support but also improve the immune system.

5) Black Pepper and Lemon

To get relief for cough in pregnancy, you may try a lemon slice with some black pepper sprinkled on it.

According to research, black pepper helps to get relief in suffering from coughs, and respiratory infections.

6) Drinking Ginger Tea

Ginger tea is effective in preventing symptoms like colds and coughs. There is a decrease in pain from Symptoms like cough congestion, sore throat, and nausea.

Ginger tea can be easily prepared at home by taking fresh ginger and adding boiled water to it.

Preparation:

Firstly, peel fresh ginger, and then slice one tablespoon of it.
Now add these ginger pieces to one cup of boiling water.
Boil the water for 7 to 12 minutes. You can add one teaspoon of honey for sweetness.
This is one of the best home remedies for cough during pregnancy as ginger is full of antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties.

7) Warm Salt Water Gargle

Add a half teaspoon of salt to a glass full of warm water, and then gargle this water several times a day. This effective approach easily relieves cough symptoms in pregnancy. It also helps in reducing throat infections and cold symptoms.

8) Apple Cider Vinegar

Vinegar has germicidal properties which help in the prevention of infections.
One tablespoon of apple cider vinegar and one tablespoon of honey is mixed with warm water. This drink when taken soothes the sore throat and boosts immunity during pregnancy.

9) Eating Healthy Foods

A balanced diet provides sufficient nutrients and necessary vitamins for the body. It boosts the immune system and increases the resistance power of the body. Take foods that are rich in vitamin C, zinc, and plenty of water.

Examples of such foods are fruits, almonds, oranges, and berries.

10) Enough Sleep

Enough rest and sleep help the body to heal and recover quickly. When you sleep less, the immune system can be affected and may make you susceptible to different allergies and infections.

11) Exercising Regularly

When you do regular exercises, it improves the blood flow to various organs of the body and this in turn improves the body immunity. Thus, the risk for infections is lessened.

Conclusion:

In order to live a healthy life for both the woman and her offspring, the above-mentioned natural remedy for cough in pregnancy can be effective in dealing with cough and preventing it.

Coughing while pregnant is not unusual and if treated at an early stage with home remedies and prescribed medicines, may not affect the newborn and the baby’s health. Only on symptoms get worse, a doctor be consulted.