Nourish - Which Herbal Cough Syrup is Right for You?
The change of seasons and going into the colder months are very typical times for coughs, colds and general flu-like symptoms to arise.
Many people experience some kind of cough during this time and that’s where this blog post on herbal cough syrup comes into play.
You might think a cough is just a cough, but actually, there are different types of coughs. Some are dry and tickly whilst others are more chesty and ‘wet’.
Let’s take a look into the Nourish Natural Medicine Cabinet…
A Vogel Bronchosan – Pine Cough Syrup
For dry, tickly, irritating coughs
Bronchosan Pine Cough Syrup is a traditional herbal medicinal product made from freshly harvested pine (spruce) shoots. Its primary use is to aid in the relief of dry, tickly and irritating coughs.
The young pine shoots are picked in spring when the needles are still green and soft and the goodness is then extracted. Next, it’s combined with soothing honey and additional beneficial ingredients to make up this natural and traditional remedy.
Fun fact for you. This syrup is one of Alfred Vogel’s oldest remedies. It’s been used for many decades as a traditional remedy for dry, tickly or irritating coughs.
Additionally, there’s no need to worry about drowsiness. Bronchosan does not contain the active ingredient present in some conventional cough syrups or cough remedies which can cause sleepiness.
Dosage
Adults and children over 12 years: Take 5-10ml (1-2 teaspoons) two to four times daily.
A measuring cup is provided.
If your symptoms worsen or if you do not feel any benefit within 1 week, talk to your doctor.
Bronchosan should not be used by:
- Children under 12 years of age
- Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Those who are allergic to Spruce (Picea abies), Pine, Colophony or any of the other ingredients
Always read the leaflet included with this product. If you are concerned about any side effects, please tell your doctor or pharmacist.
Bronchoforce Cough Syrup
For a chesty or mucus cough
Bronchoforce cough syrup is a traditional herbal medicinal product used for the relief of chesty coughs, mucus coughs and catarrh.
If you are experiencing catarrh or mucus in the throat or deeper down in your chest, with the feeling that you need to cough it up, this is your syrup. This herbal remedy helps to lift mucus from the respiratory tract and allows easier expulsion from the body.
Another sign that this is your syrup is if you are experiencing coughing spasms as your body tries hard to expel mucus.
Herbal allies to the rescue! This herbal syrup contains extracts of liquorice and freshly harvested Ivy and Thyme which help the body expel mucus or catarrh from the chest.
Additionally, licorice is added to offer its demulcent properties. This herb helps to thin and liquefy the mucus and then aids in expectoration, aka, the removal of excess mucus.
Dosage
For children over 12 years of age, adults and the elderly. Take 20 drops 3 to 5 times daily.
This herbal remedy is for oral use only. Do not take more than the recommended dose.
Bronchoforce should not be used:
- In children under 12
- If you are hypersensitive to ivy, thyme or liquorice or to any of the other ingredients present in Bronchoforce
- If you are already using another product containing liquorice (eg. liquorice sweets). Liquorice confectionery or medicines should be used with caution in those suffering from high blood pressure, kidney, liver or heart disease and those suffering from a low potassium level in their blood.
If you notice any side effects, please tell your doctor or pharmacist. Carefully read the instruction leaflet before use.
Pukka Elderberry Syrup
For Seasonal Health
Pukka’s Elderberry Syrup is a delicious organic syrup containing fresh elderberry juice, honey, ginger, thyme and licorice. This syrup is wonderful to take all year round to help support seasonal health. It works both as a preventative and as an aid in soothing a sore throat or cough. Additionally, its herbal ingredients help with both easing a dry cough, as well as shifting and expelling a more mucus/catarrh cough.
For a Dry Cough
Honey
The honey helps to soothe any tickle or dryness in the throat. It’s also wonderful to take before bed to help ease nighttime coughing.
Licorice
Thanks to its moistening and soothing qualities, liquorice helps to increase the production of healthy mucous within the bronchial system making it useful when suffering from a dry cough or wheezing. It may seem counterintuitive to increase the production of mucus, however, the production of healthy phlegm actually keeps the respiratory system functioning well. It prevents the old, sticky mucous from clogging up the respiratory tracts.
For a Wet Cough (mucus/catarrh)
Licorice
Licorice is a multi-faceted herb and comes into play also for a mucusy cough. Its demulcent properties help to thin and liquefy the mucus and aid in the removal of excess mucus.
Ginger
Another star player is ginger. This herb has both anti-inflammatory and expectorant actions.
Thyme
This herb is particularly great for respiratory infections and coughs. It’s part of the mint family and has antimicrobial, antibacterial, antiviral, expectorant, astringent and anti-inflammatory properties.
Dosage
Adults and children aged 12 or over: Take 1 teaspoon (5ml) up to 3 times a day, away from food.
6 to 12 years: Take 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) up to 3 times a day, away from food.
Children 2 to 5 years: Take 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) up to 3 times a day, away from food.
Do not take this product if:
- The child is under the age of 1 year. Children should not consume honey under the age of 1.
Carefully read the instruction leaflet before use.
Otosan ForTuss Cough Syrup
For Dry and Productive Coughs
ForTuss cough syrup combines soothing manuka honey with the emollient and balsamic action of the Helichrysum, Grindelia and Plantain Extracts. These are herbal substances rich in resins, polysaccharides and flavonoids that promote the throat’s well-being.
ForTuss Cough Syrup is wonderful for treating dry and productive coughs and general irritation of the throat. In fact, if you suffer from any irritation caused by external elements such as cold weather, dust or pollution, ForTuss helps provide protection. It creates a protective layer that adheres to the irritated mucosa, creating fast relief.
Additionally, this syrup helps to hydrate the mucus and encourages its natural discharge from the body.
Dosage
ForTuss is suitable for adults and children (from one year of age)
Children from 1 to 6 years of age: take 5 ml, 2-4 times a day.
From 7 to 12 years of age: take 10 ml, 2-4 times a day.
From 12 years and older: take 15 ml, 2-4 times a day.
Take the last dose before bedtime. Shake well before use. After use, close the bottle well and wash the dispenser thoroughly.
Do Not Take ForTuss if:
- The child is under 1 year of age.
- In case of known hypersensitivity to one or more ingredients.
Carefully read the instruction leaflet before use.
So that’s it for this blog post on Which Herbal Syrup is Right for You?
If you’re interested in learning more about herbs and natural remedies for the cold and flu season, have a read over some of my previous blogs:
- 7 Supportive Herbs for Your Respiratory System
- 7 Ways to Use Herbs to Support Your Respiratory System
- 5 Ways to use Honey to Fight the Cold and Flu Season
Emily Nöth
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*Please note that while we are knowledgeable about our products and nutrition, this blog should never be a substitute for medical advice and attention.
Please remember that you should always obtain the all-clear from your doctor before starting any new supplement plan or diet if you’re on any medication
