Dark Chocolate and Other Home Remedies for Colds

chocolate-99508567Having a coughing fit?  A piece of dark chocolate may calm your cough. In research conducted by London’s Imperial College, it was found that theobromine, an alkaloid found in cocoa, suppresses coughs. According to WebMD, “Researchers say theobromine appears to calm coughs by suppressing the vagal nerve activity.” In other words, the ingredient helps to protect the nerve endings in your throat which triggers your urge to cough.

In addition to eating dark chocolate in moderation, here are a few more home remedies that can help to quiet your cough:

  • Honey
  • Lemon
  • Sipping warm liquids such as soup, tea or warm apple juice
  • Hydration-drinking plenty of water
  • Saline rinses
  • Ginger (ginger tea recipe https://www.flushinghospital.org/)

It is recommended that you speak with your doctor before trying these remedies, as each person’s case and medical condition is unique.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.