Herbal Cough Syrups: Uses and U.S. Options
Herbal cough syrups are used to help soothe coughs associated with colds and throat irritation. Some products contain ingredients such as thyme, marshmallow root, honey, or other plant-based ingredients.
Bronchostop is an herbal cough medicine sold in some countries that contains thyme and marshmallow root. It is not a standard over-the-counter cough medicine in the United States. In the U.S., several other cough products are available, including soothing honey-based products as well as medicines containing ingredients such as guaifenesin for mucus or dextromethorphan for cough suppression.
Most coughs caused by a common cold improve on their own. Cough medicines may help relieve symptoms but do not cure the underlying infection.
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How do I use cough products?
Directions vary depending on the ingredients and formulation. Always read the Drug Facts or product label carefully and follow the recommended dose for your age.
Do not take more than the recommended amount or combine several cough and cold products without checking the ingredients. Different products may contain the same active ingredient, increasing the risk of taking too much.
If you choose an herbal cough syrup or supplement, follow the manufacturer's directions. Herbal products can differ substantially in their ingredients and concentrations.
Contact a healthcare provider if your cough is getting worse, lasts longer than expected, or is accompanied by concerning symptoms such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, coughing up blood, or a persistent fever.
How do they work?
Different cough products work in different ways.
Products containing honey, glycerin, menthol, or similar ingredients may soothe irritation by coating or cooling the throat. These ingredients may make coughing feel less bothersome but do not treat the cause of the cough.
Guaifenesin is an expectorant used in some U.S. cough medicines. It is intended to help loosen mucus so that it is easier to cough up.
Dextromethorphan is a cough suppressant found in many U.S. products. It works on the cough reflex and may help reduce coughing temporarily.
Some herbal products contain thyme or marshmallow root. These ingredients have a history of traditional use for cough symptoms, but evidence supporting herbal cough preparations varies, and products sold in the U.S. may not be the same as those studied elsewhere.
Who should use caution?
Do not take a cough product if you are allergic to any of its ingredients.
Check with a healthcare provider or pharmacist before taking a cough or cold product if you:
- are pregnant or breastfeeding
- take prescription medications
- have asthma or another chronic lung condition
- have diabetes or need to limit sugar
- have liver or kidney disease
- have a persistent or unexplained cough
Some herbal products can interact with medications or may not be appropriate for people with certain medical conditions.
For children, always choose an age-appropriate product and follow the label carefully. Do not give honey to children younger than 1 year because of the risk of infant botulism.
Are there any side effects?
Side effects depend on the ingredients in the product.
Herbal cough preparations may cause stomach upset, nausea, diarrhea, or allergic reactions in some people. Standard OTC cough medicines can cause different effects depending on the active ingredient.
Stop taking the product and seek medical advice if you develop significant or persistent side effects.
Call 911 for signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
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