Faced with a cough that persists, an emergency doctor reveals his simple recipe for quickly clearing the bronchi and expelling mucus.
Between the cold which irritates the respiratory tract and the seasonal germs which actively circulate, it’s difficult to get rid of a persistent cough in winter! Even at the end of a cold or flu, the respiratory tract can always be irritated, leading to a persistent cough. “We have small air sacs in our lungs that help exchange oxygen with our blood so we can get the air we need. But during this cough season, these little bags are “clogged” by a buildup of mucus and irritants : this stimulates the cough receptors in our chest and this causes a persistent cough reflex“, explained Dr. Darien Sutton, emergency physician on the television show “Good Morning America” broadcast on ABC on January 19, 2024.
An express solution that smells “fantastically” good
To overcome a cough that lasts, the emergency doctor revealed his very simple recipe: “You can put 1 to 2 drops of Eucalyptus essential oil in a cup of hot water (do not take it pure without diluting it, editor’s note). Eucalyptus is a good anti-inflammatory that smells fantastic and helps clear your airways“, he specifies. Eucalyptus EO (Radiata or Globulus because both have the same therapeutic benefits and are contraindicated for asthmatics and epileptics and orally for children under 12 years old) is a respiratory ally renowned for its effectiveness on ENT problems (colds, sinusitis, bronchitis, etc.). It is mainly composed ofeucalyptola molecule that acts as a powerful expectorant and mucolytic, quickly thinning mucus and increasing its expulsion. We add to it a spoonful of honey (from the age of one year), recommends the doctor. You can also choose Eucalyptus honey which will promote the elimination of mucus and soften the throat. To drink 3 times a day, no more than 3 days in a row. Generally speaking, the use of essential oils is not trivial and must be subject to medical advice.
How long does it take to consult?
After a viral infection such as a cold, the flu, acute bronchitis or Covid, the cough can last between 3 and 6 weeks. “Beyond 8 weeks, this is what we call a “chronic cough” and it can become worrying. It is advisable to see a doctor to learn more about the cause of this persistent cough“, he warns. Additional examinations such as imaging and sputum tests are sometimes necessary. Many things can cause a persistent cough: firstly viral illnesses, but also acid reflux, allergies, asthma or more serious problems (COPD, etc.).