Coughing is one of the most common medical problems that people suffer from and chances are that you will suffer a coughing fit at least once every week. While coughing can be a symptom of some underlying medical problem, there is also the very common probability that it can be caused by nothing more than a temporary irritation such as the presence of some obstruction in the respiratory tract. This will trigger a response within the human body to produce short bursts of air that will help dislodge the obstructing object and clear the throat.


The coughing reaction is a reflex that consists primarily of three very distinct actions. The first is inhalation, followed by forced exhalation against a closed glottis and the last phase is characterized by a violent release of air following an open glottis. Asthma is a long term, medically termed as chronic, lung condition that is characterized by the inflammation and narrowing of the airways.


A person suffering from asthma is likely to show prominent symptoms such as recurring periods of wheezing, tightness in the chest, running short of breath and constant coughing. Although the condition can affect individuals of any age, it will usually manifest during a victims childhood. The condition is extremely common and recent studies have shown that as many as 22 million individuals are known to suffer from the condition within the United States of America alone.

With the rising cost of medication coupled with the side effects caused by the chemical complications present in modern medicine, a number of people prefer to opt for the more economical and healthier choice of natural remedies. There is of course a chance of some side effects, as an allergy is always a risk. However, considering that there are no chemicals involved, any side effects are likely to be temporary. One of the best natural remedies is to take a steam inhalation of the essential oils extracted from lavender and eucalyptus, during and just after an attack. The healing vapors help ease the panic and help open up the airways in the respiratory tract. Another very effective option would be to have some finely powdered turmeric along with honey and consume the mixture on a regular basis. You could also try creating a paste of about 250 grams of Indian gooseberry, 50 grams of banyan root and about 125 milliliters of honey. Grind them together to create a paste and consume the mixture one teaspoon at a time for best results.