Sumedha Sen (Sub-Editor)

Whooping cough is a highly contagious bacterial infection. The disease affects the inner lining of the airways, such as the trachea and bronchi, and spreads through an infected person. The illness usually starts with mild respiratory symptoms like mild coughing, sneezing, or a runny nose. After one or two weeks, the coughing involves a pitched “whoop” sound as the person tries to inhale. 

A bacterium called Bordetella pertussis that spreads through an infected person is the cause of whooping cough. Some of the symptoms of whooping cough are a runny nose, nasal congestion, and fever. After one or two weeks, when the condition worsens, severe and prolonged coughing may lead to vomiting and fatigue as well. Here are a few home remedies that help keep whooping cough at bay:

1. Ginger

Ginger has antibacterial properties that help boost the immune system. It is also an effective home remedy that helps treat whooping cough. Prepare a juice by mixing a tablespoon of ginger juice with honey and consuming it twice a day. Alternatively, you can boil fenugreek seeds, add a few drops of ginger juice to them, and consume them for a few days. Additionally, you can try ginger tea by steeping fresh ginger slices in hot water and adding honey for extra flavour. 

2. Garlic

Garlic is an antibiotic that helps fight whooping cough. There are various antibacterial and antiviral properties present in it. Consume a tablespoon of garlic juice twice a day for about a week. To make it more palatable, you can mix the garlic juice with a spoonful of honey. You can also inhale the vapour of garlic by boiling some garlic in water and covering your head with a towel for an immediate effect. The natural healing properties of garlic can help alleviate the symptoms of whooping cough and strengthen your body’s defences.

3. Saltwater

Mix a small tablespoon of salt in a glass of lukewarm water and gargle it three times a day. The saline solution helps break down mucus secretions, providing relief to the irritated throat lining. Gargling with salt water gives relief to the throat. Saltwater breaks down the secretion and is soothing to the throat. This is one of the most effective remedies for treating whooping cough.

Coughing does not stop abruptly, and it may take some time to fully recover from it. These home remedies can help control the cough, but if the condition worsens, it is advisable to consult a doctor. For instance, if you are struggling to breathe, you should definitely consult a doctor. In case you catch a cold easily, it is preferable to drink lukewarm water throughout the year to avoid coughs and remain healthy.