Licorice for dry and wet cough: how to brew and take?

Licorice for cough can be used in various forms: as a syrup, decoction, infusion. At the same time, licorice has its advantages, for example, it practically does not cause side effects. It can be prescribed to children, adults. Licorice can be drunk even during pregnancy and breastfeeding. This is unconditional evidence in favor of the fact that licorice is a safe and comfortable remedy.

Does licorice help with cough?

This is one of the main questions that phytotherapists and naturopaths have to hear. There is no doubt that licorice really does show a high degree of activity and is very effective in the treatment of diseases of the throat, nasopharynx, and pharynx. This is a proven remedy that has been used for a long time.

Previously, it was a folk remedy that was not recognized by traditional medicine. However, due to its high effectiveness, doctors were later forced to recognize licorice as an official medicine that helps in the fight against various types of cough. Today, licorice is used as an independent medicine, and is also included in various complex medicines and herbal infusions.

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Indications licorice for a cough

Licorice is used for severe, rather painful cough. It can be either dry or wet cough. Sometimes it is even prescribed for cough with an allergic component, which accompanies bronchial asthma and asthmatic bronchitis. Licorice root syrup has proven itself well for bronchitis, tracheitis, laryngitis. It effectively copes with cough against the background of infectious diseases accompanied by cough. As an auxiliary agent, it can be used in the treatment of pneumonia, and even pleurisy (it alleviates the patient's condition).

Licorice for dry cough

Licorice root syrup is indicated in cases where the bronchi are blocked by mucous secretions. It helps to liquefy sputum in dry, unproductive coughs, and helps to expectorate it. As a result, the cough turns into a wet form (productive), in which sputum is expected to be expected, and, accordingly, the inflammatory process is reduced and recovery occurs more quickly.

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Licorice for wet cough

A wet cough is productive, less painful than a dry one. With a wet cough, phlegm is released, accordingly, its accumulation does not occur, the inflammatory process is removed rather quickly. If a cough appears, then the person coughs, phlegm is released. Such a cough has a positive prognosis, and the transition from a dry cough to a wet one is considered as a positive dynamic, in which a tendency towards a quick recovery is outlined.

Release form

There are various forms of release - syrup (used mainly for children), dry grass (licorice roots), which are used to prepare decoctions and infusions. Licorice root is also sold as part of various mixtures.

Licorice decoction for cough

To prepare the decoction, take the roots and carefully sort them out, pour boiling water over them. Let it brew for 1-2 hours. Cover the container tightly and wrap it in a warm blanket. Or you can use a thermos for this.

It is also necessary to observe the proportions: approximately 1-2 tablespoons of roots are poured with a glass of water (boiling water). It is recommended to drink the decoction 1-5 tablespoons per day, approximately three times a day. It depends on the person's weight, as well as the severity of the inflammatory process.

Licorice extract for cough

The extract can be used to treat coughs that accompany various diseases, including viral and colds. The main effect is expectorant, the essence is that phlegm dissolves and is removed from the body.

Inflammation is also quickly relieved, which is achieved due to the high content of phytoncides and glycosides in the extract. Steroid substances, which are found in large quantities in licorice roots, are used as an anti-inflammatory agent. Also, a large number of essential oils can be found in the roots, which have a tonic, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effect.

The extract is taken in small quantities, as it is very concentrated. It is recommended to take 3-4 drops three times a day.

Ethyl alcohol and sugar syrup are used as additional substances, so people suffering from diabetes should take it with caution.

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Cough tablets licorice

Various tablets and lozenges are produced, the active substance of which is licorice. Such preparations as licorice-forte attract the attention of consumers. Breast elixir has found wide application. Also, glycyrinate, glycerol, which have an antiseptic effect, antimicrobial activity, have been used for a long time (since the 1970s).

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Pharmacodynamics

Licorice is a plant-based remedy that contains various phytoncides, alkaloids, organic and inorganic substances that have both local and systemic effects on the body. Thanks to these substances, licorice has anti-inflammatory and anti-infective effects. Licorice also helps relieve swelling and dissolve exudate. In some cases, it also has an antifungal effect.

It is distinguished by its ability to exert a systemic effect on the body, stimulating the immune system, local defense system, non-specific resistance. Substances included in the composition of licorice roots stimulate the receptors of the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract, which leads to the occurrence of reflex reactions, for example, coughing, sneezing, runny nose. Such reflexes help remove excess mucus and phlegm from the body, as a result of which the inflammatory process is reduced.

Some components of licorice roots have healing properties due to the fact that they penetrate the blood. Then they are transferred to target organs with the blood and integrated into tissue metabolism. The main amount of the active substance accumulates in the lung tissue, which prevents the infection from progressing and causing inflammation. The active substances of licorice can have various effects. They relieve inflammation and reduce temperature quite quickly. A significant positive effect can be achieved due to the fact that licorice roots normalize the functioning of internal organs and eliminate toxins.

Many have such specific properties as stopping bleeding, removing edema, hyperemia, hypertrophy, which is especially important in the treatment of hypertrophied and inflamed mucous membranes. There are quite a lot of active substances: some of them affect the alveoli, stimulating gas exchange and the introduction of sputum. Others affect the cough center, relieving cough. However, in some cases, at first glance, the opposite effect may occur. Thus, many substances included in the composition of licorice roots cause increased coughing and liquefaction of sputum. In fact, this contributes to the fact that sputum is quite effectively removed from the bronchi, and inflammation gradually decreases.

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Pharmacokinetics

The plant contains a large number of substances of various origins, which provide the main therapeutic effect on the body. All parts of the plant, especially the roots, are rich in a large number of biologically active substances. These include:

• alkaloids;
• glycosides;
• saponins;
• polysaccharides (gums, mucus);
• essential oils;
• organic acids;
• phytoncides;
• flavonoids.

Of particular interest is the fact that the content of substances in a plant can change depending on what stage of development the plant is in. Much also depends on the properties of the soil in which the plant grows.

Licorice roots contain the most alkaloids. These agents have proven themselves in the treatment of inflammatory and infectious processes. This is due to the fact that they are able to enter into a chemical reaction with acids, form salts, which subsequently dissolve in water, are transported with the help of liquid media of the body. They penetrate through the blood, are absorbed through the mucous membranes, simultaneously normalizing their physiological state.

Licorice roots contain a large amount of caffeine, nicotine, ephedrine, morphine. These agents quickly relieve inflammation, penetrate the skin. Moreover, these substances are a powerful stimulator of various biologically active points, which triggers basic biochemical reactions, including irritating receptors, causing coughing, sneezing. Morphine relieves pain, since it is a powerful anesthetic of natural origin.

Due to the content of saponins, it is possible to achieve the main anti-inflammatory and expectorant effect. Saponins have a stimulating effect on the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract, and are also characterized by tropism to the lung tissue, as a result of which the inflammatory process occurring directly in the respiratory system is removed.

Polysaccharides can be characterized as complex carbohydrates that are a source of energy. Their advantage is that they have antibiotic activity, antiviral, antiallergic, antiexudative, antipruritic action. Many act as antidotes, reducing the degree of intoxication of the body. This is especially important in the treatment of inflammatory processes, since they are often accompanied by an increase in the toxic load on the body. Thus, the destruction of bacterial cells is accompanied by the release of endo- and exotoxins. In addition, inflammatory processes are accompanied by the release of various substances, including mediators of inflammatory processes, which, if excessively accumulated, also have a toxic effect.

Essential oils are primarily complex mixtures of various volatile substances that dissolve well in alcohol and do not dissolve in water. Essential oils can be used in various forms: as lotions, decoctions, infusions, for gargling. They have an anti-inflammatory effect and are good antiseptics. They also have many additional properties that can be used to treat coughs and other respiratory diseases. They are painkillers, sedatives, and stimulants. These properties can be used for various respiratory diseases.

By using organic acids, you can stimulate the immune system, increase resistance and endurance of the body. Organic acids increase the secretion of saliva, liquefy phlegm, promote its removal, relieve irritation and inflammation of the walls and mucous membranes.

Flavonoids have a positive effect on the condition of the bronchi, alveoli, and respiratory tract. They also strengthen the walls of blood vessels, eliminate swelling and allergic reactions.

Phytoncides have mainly antimicrobial properties and activate many functions of internal organs, including the respiratory tract.

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Dosing and administration

Licorice syrup is used in pure, undiluted form. First, shake the bottle thoroughly to lift and bring into equilibrium all the active components that have settled to the bottom. Then take one measuring spoon 3-4 times a day. If there is no measuring spoon in the package, take 1 teaspoon 3-4 times a day.

The duration of treatment is determined by the doctor strictly individually. As a rule, the doctor relies on the results of laboratory tests, conducted instrumental studies (if any). Before the appointment, it is necessary to conduct a clinical examination. Self-medication can be dangerous, since complications and side effects may occur.

How to brew licorice for cough?

Licorice is very convenient to use for coughs, as it is suitable for both dry and wet coughs. Also, you do not need to worry about what caused the cough - licorice will still have a positive effect. In order to brew licorice, you will need roots. To do this, take the plant, wash it in warm water. Then lay it out on a dry cloth, let the water drain, blot it with an absorbent towel. After that, finely chop the roots. You can also grate them in a meat grinder or grater. Then pour about a tablespoon of roots with a glass of boiled water. Licorice for coughs can be used as a decoction, tea.

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How to take licorice for cough in adults?

If an adult is bothered by a cough, it is best to try using licorice in the form of an infusion. Firstly, when licorice is infused in vodka or alcohol, a kind of preservation of the medicine occurs. At the same time, biologically active substances retain their high activity. A decoction is less effective, since when pouring hot water or boiling, the active substances can be destroyed by high temperatures.

However, it cannot be said that the most effective method of using licorice is to prepare an infusion. For example, a decoction can be recommended for people suffering from cardiovascular pathologies. The decoction is also recommended for use by children, pregnant and lactating women, since they are prohibited from drinking alcohol. The decoction is also recommended for those people who cannot tolerate alcohol, or for people with metabolic disorders.

To prepare the syrup, you first need to prepare the syrup, then add licorice to it as the main active ingredient. To prepare the syrup, you need to take about a glass of water and a glass of sugar. Mix everything thoroughly and put it on low heat. Cook for at least 10 minutes until the sugar is completely dissolved. Then add about one tablespoon of pre-crushed licorice roots to the resulting syrup. You can also buy ready-made syrup at the pharmacy. You need to drink this syrup about a tablespoon three times a day. But it is necessary to take into account that the syrup is contraindicated for people suffering from diabetes, diseases associated with carbohydrate metabolism and its disorders. You also need to understand that this syrup may not be suitable for patients prone to allergic reactions, especially if it is an immediate reaction. It is also not recommended for women to take the syrup during pregnancy.

The infusion can be recommended to people who have virtually no side effects. So, if a person only has a cough, and there are no symptoms from the cardiovascular system, liver, kidneys, the best option would be to prescribe licorice in the form of an infusion. It will provide additional warming, penetrates into organs and tissues faster. The infusion also has an additional antibacterial effect, stimulates the state of the immune system, spurs the system of non-specific resistance, normalizes the state of the mucous membrane and skin.

The decoction is also quite effective in treating pregnant women and nursing mothers. It is effective for the elderly and for those who are contraindicated in alcohol. The decoction is advisable to prescribe to patients with diseases of the stomach, intestines, and a tendency to kidney and liver disorders.

Licorice for cough for children

The use of licorice as a therapeutic agent in the treatment and prevention of cough in children is rational and quite justified. Thus, licorice has virtually no contraindications, does not cause side effects, and does not have toxic properties. It can be used in various products that have an antibacterial, antiviral effect. Licorice also very quickly relieves inflammation and congestion. Licorice very quickly eliminates congestion, treats dry and wet cough.

Use licorice for a cough during pregnancy

Licorice has no contraindications for use during pregnancy. But it is necessary to consult a doctor, since it is impossible to predict individual characteristics and reactions of the body, especially if we are talking about not even one, but several organisms at once. It is inappropriate to talk about any dosages, since any prescriptions can only be made on the basis of available tests, results of additional research, anamnestic data. It is also important to take into account the characteristics of the course of pregnancy, individual reactions of the mother and fetus.

Contraindications

In its pure form, it is not recommended for people suffering from diabetes. This is explained by the fact that the syrup is always made on the basis of sugar or honey, which should not be consumed by patients with diabetes. In addition, licorice itself also contains a large amount of sucrose, glucose, which can be dangerous for patients with carbohydrate metabolism disorders.

Contraindications also include bronchial asthma, since in this condition the body is in a state of increased reactivity (hypersensitivity), and any allergen, even a potential one, can provoke an attack.

It should not be used in case of intestinal dysfunction, especially chronic gastritis and ulcers. This is explained by the fact that licorice has an irritating effect on the body, causing intestinal microflora to be disrupted, which in turn leads to intestinal mucosa dysfunction and disrupts normal peristalsis. Bleeding may occur with an ulcer, and gastritis may develop into an ulcerative form of gastritis, and then into an ulcer.

Licorice is also contraindicated in cases of chronic kidney and liver disease, since the pathology may worsen, leading to the development of severe renal and hepatic failure.

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Side effects licorice for a cough

They are observed extremely rarely, mainly in case of improper use of the substance. Thus, licorice root can cause a strong allergic reaction, swelling, an attack of suffocation, which can progress to anaphylactic shock. Skin rashes, itching, burning, redness, irritation on the skin, redness of the mucous membrane may also appear, coughing may increase, and a runny nose may appear.

People with a tendency to arrhythmia, disruption of the normal functioning of the body, may develop attacks of hypertension, or, conversely, hypotension. More often, however, there is an increase in breathing and heart rate. One of the side effects may be a decrease in libido.

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Overdose

Overdose cases are rare. Mostly, if they occur, they occur in small children who abuse cough syrups and lozenges. Most often, an allergic reaction occurs, which manifests itself as an immediate reaction or a delayed reaction.

The delayed type is accompanied by the formation of a reaction in the form of a rash, hives, irritation, itching, redness. As a rule, such a reaction disappears immediately after the drug is discontinued, or after the dosage is reduced. It should also be noted that allergic reactions disappear immediately after the drug is discontinued. As a rule, no additional treatment is required.

Overdose may also be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and pain in the epigastric region. In exceptional cases, dizziness and clouding of consciousness may occur. Overdose is caused by either an excessive amount of sugar or an overdose of biologically active components contained in the roots.

Interactions with other drugs

No cross-reactions are observed. The drug can be combined with other components. It is known that many herbs can enhance the action of the active components of licorice roots. Also, in combination with some herbs, they complement each other, act in synergy. Antagonism is not observed.

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Storage conditions

How to store syrup is usually written on the factory packaging. If the product is prepared at home, the storage rules are determined by the type of product.

So, a dark cool place is recommended for storing the infusion. The infusion must be placed in a glass container. It can be stored in the refrigerator on the bottom shelf, or in the basement. The shelf life is not limited.

The decoction is stored for no more than 2 days. Otherwise, it spoils or loses its activity. The decoction should be stored at room temperature.

Store the lollipops in the refrigerator to prevent them from melting.

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Shelf life

Depends on the type of drug. Infusions and lozenges have the longest shelf life: from several months to several years. Commercial tablets and syrups also have a fairly long shelf life. The shelf life can be up to 2-3 years for an unopened product. When the package is opened, the shelf life becomes several months. Decoctions are stored for several days.

Reviews

Licorice for cough is described by most patients as an effective means of fighting cough, diseases of the upper respiratory tract. It alleviates a person's condition, promotes the transition of dry cough to wet... quickly relieves the inflammatory process. It helps children well. Having drunk a spoonful of syrup at night, the child sleeps peacefully all night, without waking up from coughing fits. Children are very fond of lollipops, which they eat more like a treat. During pregnancy, it is almost the only means of fighting cough.