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Herbs May Ease Persistent Cough

Posting Date: 12/27/2004

Q. Last month I had a nasty cold. Even though it went away after about a week, the cough has lingered all this time. It is troublesome during the day and downright disturbing at night. I hate the taste of dextromethorphan and would like some advice on natural cough relief.

A. Dextromethorphan (DM) is the most common ingredient in cough medicine. Its effectiveness, however, is somewhat controversial. A recent study (Pediatrics, July, 2004) found it no better than placebo for kids with coughs.

A number of herbs can provide some relief from coughs, however. The old standby is hard candy made with horehound, but these herbal drops can be hard to find these days. Licorice is also traditional for cough, but too much licorice can raise blood pressure and disturb mineral balance.

Tea made from thyme leaves (1/2 teaspoon per cup) or grated ginger root can soothe a cough. Codeine is the gold standard for cough medicine, but it may require a prescription in some states.

As a last resort at night, try Vicks VapoRub on the soles of the feet, with socks to protect the sheets. We don?t know why, but it works!

Q. My son is having a rough year in college. He is feeling depressed and had trouble finishing his work at the end of the semester. He?s concerned about next semester.

Is there any natural approach for depression? He took Paxil once before, but it was worse than the depression. It made him terribly anxious and gave him insomnia. He is very reluctant to take another antidepressant.

A. Paxil, Prozac, Zoloft and similar medicines cause insomnia or anxiety for some people. Nonetheless, they can be valuable in combating severe depression.

Natural approaches can be successful in some circumstances, but he should be under medical supervision to monitor his progress. Vigorous exercise can sometimes be as effective as an antidepressant, and the side effects are reduced stress and improved sleep. Exercising outdoors in bright light may be especially helpful.