Declare war on coughs!

Natural ways to support your airways

Coughing is not just an annoying symptom, but an important protective mechanism of your body. But what lies behind the different types of cough, and how can you find relief naturally? In this article, you’ll learn all about types of cough such as bronchitis, dry cough, and allergic cough. We’ll also give you valuable tips on how you can support your airways with proven home remedies and herbal remedies.

What your cough is trying to tell you – types of cough and their causes

Coughing regularly affects many of us – whether due to a cold, allergies, or chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma. But coughing is more than just an annoying symptom: essentially, it is an important mechanism of the body to detoxify itself and cleanse the airways. Through coughing, mucus, dust, pathogens, and other foreign substances are removed from the lungs and bronchi. It serves, so to speak, as the body’s own “filter,” clearing the airways of everything that does not belong there.

This reflex is controlled by the nervous system. As soon as the mucous membranes of the airways are irritated by foreign substances or inflammation, they send a signal to the cough center in the brain. This activates the cough reflex, during which the respiratory muscles contract in a flash and air is expelled under high pressure. This process is therefore a natural protective mechanism; however, if it occurs uncontrollably and over a longer period of time, it can place a considerable strain on the body.

Especially in chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma, allergies, or COPD, coughing is often a constant companion. The airways are then permanently inflamed and hypersensitive, creating a vicious cycle of irritation, inflammation, and renewed coughing. That is why it is so important to understand the causes and triggers of coughing and to support the body in its “cleansing work” as effectively as possible – preferably in a natural way. In this article, you’ll learn what types of cough there are and how you can provide relief in a gentle, plant-based way.

Stylized lungs formed from green leaves and colorful flowers symbolizing natural cough remedies and healthy airways

Coughing is the body’s language to show us

that it is cleansing itself – a natural reflex

that clears our airways.

Types of cough:
What’s behind your cough – and how do you recognize it?

To find targeted relief, it is important to understand your own cough. Here you can learn more about the most common types of cough and how they can affect your everyday life:

Bronchitis – when your chest feels tight

Acute bronchitis often develops due to irritants and foreign bodies that cause inflammation of the bronchi. Typical is an initially dry, irritating cough that after a few days turns into a productive cough with thick mucus. Accompanying symptoms such as fever, breathing difficulties, and a general feeling of illness often make the situation even more burdensome. The bronchi feel constricted, and every breath can be painful. Especially during the cold season, when the immune system is weakened, many of us are affected by bronchitis. Chronic bronchitis, on the other hand – often caused by smoking or air pollution – leads to a persistent cough, often in the morning, with mucus formation, which not only strains the lungs but also limits quality of life.

Dry cough – the constant scratch in your throat

This tormenting, dry cough is free of mucus and can be particularly unpleasant. Triggered by dry air, allergens, smoke, or other irritants, it manifests as persistent scratching and tickling in the throat. A dry cough usually occurs at the beginning of a cold, when the mucous membranes are already irritated. Especially at night, it can keep those affected awake, leading to lack of sleep and exhaustion. Many describe the feeling as if “a thousand tiny needles” were stuck in their throat. Here, the body is trying to cleanse the airways even though there is no mucus present – a vicious cycle that is often difficult to break.

Asthma – when breathing becomes a challenge

Asthma is a chronic inflammation of the airways that can lead to recurring coughing fits and shortness of breath. Typical of asthma is the wheezing sound that occurs when the narrowed airways try to get enough air into the lungs. Symptoms can be triggered by allergens, stress, physical exertion, or cold air. During an attack, the muscles of the airways contract and produce thick mucus that is difficult to cough up. For those affected, it feels as if a “belt” were being tightened around the chest, which can trigger panic and fear. Children in particular suffer when every breath becomes an effort and they often have to withdraw from active life.

Allergic cough – the hidden trap

Allergic cough is triggered by the immune system overreacting to substances such as pollen, dust mites, or animal hair. The cough can occur seasonally, for example in spring with hay fever, or all year round. Many sufferers complain of a constant “tickle” in the throat and have to clear their throat again and again. Allergic cough can be particularly tricky because it is often accompanied by other symptoms such as sneezing, watery eyes, and a runny nose. This cough is often mistakenly dismissed as a “normal” cough, even though the immune system is heavily burdened by the constant overreaction.

Whooping cough (pertussis) – the cough that won’t let you go

Whooping cough is a highly contagious bacterial infection characterized by long-lasting, spasmodic coughing fits. The cough occurs in bouts and may be accompanied by a characteristic whooping sound when inhaling – hence the name. Whooping cough is particularly dangerous for infants and people with weakened immune systems, as it can lead to severe shortness of breath and choking attacks. The coughing attacks are so intense that they make breathing truly agonizing. After an attack, those affected often feel exhausted and weakened. In adults, whooping cough is often recognized late, as it tends to manifest as a long-lasting, tormenting dry cough that persists for weeks.

Chronic cough – when the cough simply won’t stop

Chronic cough is a cough that lasts longer than eight weeks and is often caused by chronic conditions such as asthma, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), or gastroesophageal reflux (heartburn). Those affected often suffer from constant mucus production, shortness of breath, and exhaustion. This cough becomes a constant companion in everyday life and leads many sufferers to isolate themselves and avoid contact with other people. The constant irritation of the mucous membranes can also lead to further inflammation and damage to the airways in the long term. For many, it feels as if they are stuck in a “cough cycle” from which there seems to be no escape.

Person sitting cross-legged on mossy forest floor, breathing deeply amid sunlit trees—natural remedy and breathing tips theme

Breathe in, calm your body.

Breathe out, smile.

Thich Nhaat Hanh, Vietnamese and Buddhist monk

Let go of the cough
With these natural tips, you can finally breathe easier

There are many gentle and natural ways to relieve your cough and support your airways. Here you’ll find some of the best home remedies and measures to help you breathe freely again quickly:

Steam inhalation bowl with chamomile flowers releasing vapor on wooden table for natural cough relief and airway support

Inhalations – balm for irritated airways

Inhalation with hot steam and essential oils is a proven home remedy for soothing the airways. Add a few drops of essential oils such as eucalyptus, peppermint, or tea tree oil to the hot water. These oils not only help loosen mucus, but also have disinfectant and anti-inflammatory effects. Alternatively, you can also use fresh herbs such as chamomile, thyme, or sage. The warm vapors moisturize the mucous membranes and help you breathe more easily again.

Tip

Cover your head with a towel during inhalation to make intensive use of the vapors, but make sure not to choose too small a distance from the bowl to avoid scalding.

Glass teapot with warm herbal tea on a table beside chamomile flowers, natural cough remedy and soothing airway support

Herbal teas – soothing helpers from within

Herbal teas are more than just warm drinks; they are gentle support for the airways. Cough herbs in particular, such as ribwort plantain, thyme, marshmallow, and licorice root, have mucus-dissolving and anti-inflammatory properties. Marshmallow root, for example, contains mucilage that covers the irritated mucous membranes in the throat and pharynx like a protective film.

Tip

Prepare your cough tea with a spoonful of honey – the natural sweetener has an antibacterial effect and soothes the throat. However, make sure to add the honey only after it has cooled down so as not to destroy the valuable enzymes.

A wooden essential oil diffuser releasing vapor beside small amber remedy bottles on a bedside table, humidifier for cough relief

Humidity – create a breathing-friendly indoor climate

Dry indoor air irritates the airways and worsens cough symptoms. Especially in winter, when heated air dries out rooms, optimal humidity is important. A humidifier ensures that the humidity in your home remains at a comfortable level. Alternatively, you can place bowls of water on the heater or hang damp towels in the room.

Tip

Place plants such as spider plants or snake plants in your living spaces – they naturally increase humidity and improve air quality.

Coconut chunks and oil on spoon with avocado and nuts, natural ingredients for cough remedies and airway support

Nutrition – relieve coughs with the right foods

A healthy diet can have a decisive influence on how well you cope with coughs and respiratory complaints. The ketogenic diet in particular, which focuses on healthy fats, sufficient protein intake, and few carbohydrates, can help reduce inflammatory processes in the body and soothe the airways.

Healthy fats such as avocado, olive oil, and coconut oil are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have an anti-inflammatory effect. In addition, vitamin-rich, keto-friendly vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, and kale are packed with antioxidants. These help fight free radicals and protect the mucous membranes. Vitamin C-rich foods such as peppers and berries also strengthen your defenses and promote respiratory health.

Spices such as ginger, chili, and turmeric should also be regularly integrated into your diet. They promote blood circulation in the airways and have an anti-inflammatory effect. Garlic and onions, rich in sulfur-containing compounds, have antibacterial and mucus-dissolving effects and fit perfectly into a ketogenic way of eating.

Tip

Make yourself a ketogenic vegetable soup with plenty of leafy greens, a little coconut oil, and spices such as turmeric and ginger – this supplies your body with nutrients that support your airways. Alternatively, you can enjoy a fresh ginger tea with a little lemon every day – it not only warms you from within, but also provides a concentrated dose of antioxidants and vitamins that strengthen your airways.

Small amber essential oil bottles with dried lavender and herbs on a wooden table for natural cough relief

Essential oils – the power of nature for your airways

Essential oils can be a wonderful aid for coughs. Eucalyptus oil and peppermint oil are known for clearing the airways and loosening mucus. Apply a few drops to the chest or add them to a steam bath. Lavender oil also has a calming effect on the airways and can be dripped onto a tissue before bedtime and placed next to the pillow.

Tip

Mix a few drops of essential oils with a carrier oil such as almond or jojoba oil to apply it gently to the skin while enjoying a relaxing massage.

Relaxing bathtub scene with lit candles and bath oil bottle, person seated preparing a soothing bath for cough relief

Rest and warmth – give your body the recovery it needs

When you have a cough, it is important to give your body rest so it can recover and regenerate. Warmth acts like a soothing balm for the airways. A warm bath with essential oils or a chest wrap made with warm olive oil can promote circulation and soothe the mucous membranes.

Tip

Drink warm milk with honey before going to bed – it has a soothing effect on the mucous membranes and ensures relaxed sleep.

Woman in yellow beanie and coat smiling outdoors during autumn walk, breathing fresh air to soothe cough symptoms

Exercise in the fresh air – stay active, breathe healthily

Regular exercise in the fresh air promotes blood circulation in the lungs and helps loosen mucus. Walks in the forest or park are particularly beneficial, as the air there is cleaner and more humid than in the city. Movement also strengthens the immune system and supports the body in its self-cleansing.

Tip

Choose days with higher humidity for your walks – especially after a rain shower, the air is clear and pure, which additionally relieves your airways.

Serrapeptase and cat’s claw:
The powerful synergy for healthy airways

For respiratory complaints, naturopathy is a valuable source of remedies. One of the most effective combinations for relieving coughs and inflammation is the duo of serrapeptase and cat’s claw. Together, these two active ingredients support the body in the self-cleansing of the lungs and in soothing irritated airways.

What is serrapeptase?

Serrapeptase is a natural enzyme originally isolated from the intestine of a silkworm. It is known for its anti-inflammatory and mucus-dissolving properties. Serrapeptase works by breaking down dead tissue, mucus, and inflammatory products in the body, helping to keep the airways clear. Especially in cases of cough and bronchitis, serrapeptase can help liquefy thick mucus and make it easier to remove from the airways.

Scientific studies, such as the one by Tiwari M. (2017), show that serrapeptase can reduce the production of excessive mucus in the airways. It also promotes the removal of inflammatory substances and thus supports natural healing. Regular intake of serrapeptase can therefore help reduce the frequency and intensity of coughing fits and improve breathing.

The effect of cat’s claw

Cat’s claw (Uncaria tomentosa) is a medicinal plant from the Amazon region that is valued in naturopathy for its anti-inflammatory and immune-strengthening properties. The plant contains a variety of active compounds, including alkaloids that strengthen the immune system, as well as antioxidants that act against free radicals. A study by Kushida H et al. (2021) showed that cat’s claw can promote the regeneration of the airways by reducing inflammation and supporting the immune system.

Thanks to its antiviral and antibacterial properties, cat’s claw can help eliminate foreign bodies from the airways and soothe the mucous membranes. The plant is particularly well suited for people with chronic respiratory complaints, as it can protect and strengthen the airways over the long term.

The synergy of serrapeptase and cat’s claw

The combination of serrapeptase and cat’s claw unfolds a unique, synergistic effect. While serrapeptase promotes the removal of mucus and inflammatory products, cat’s claw acts on the immune system and directly combats inflammation. This “double effect” ensures that your airways are naturally cleansed and protected from new irritations.
Studies (e.g. Sellman S. 2003, Nakamura S. et al. 2003) show that serrapeptase inhibits inflammation by breaking down inflammatory proteins in the tissue. Cat’s claw, on the other hand, acts as an immunomodulator that strengthens the body’s defenses and keeps inflammatory reactions in check. Through this cooperation, respiratory complaints and coughs can be relieved in a gentle, natural way, without the side effects often associated with chemical preparations.

Regular intake of a product that contains both serrapeptase and cat’s claw supports the body’s own metabolic mechanisms. This can free the airways from mucus, foreign bodies, and inflammatory residues, leading to long-term relief from coughing and better breathing.

Why the combination is so unique

When these two natural substances are combined, you get effective yet gentle support for the airways. Serrapeptase takes care of breaking down mucus and dead cells, while cat’s claw acts as a “protector” of the mucous membranes, curbing inflammation and strengthening the immune system. This not only relieves the cough itself, but also addresses the deeper causes that contribute to the development of respiratory complaints.

Tip:

When choosing a product, make sure it contains high-dose serrapeptase and pure cat’s claw in order to benefit from the full effect of both substances, as in our enzyme product SerraZYM plus.

Our product recommendation: SerraZYM plus by dr.reinwald vital – for your well-being and strong airways

If you are looking for natural support for your airways, SerraZYM plus could be just right for you. This vegan enzyme product combines high-dose serrapeptase with powerful cat’s claw to promote optimal relief for coughs and respiratory complaints.

The specially formulated composition of SerraZYM plus supports your body on several levels: serrapeptase helps break down thick mucus and inflammatory products in the airways, while cat’s claw soothes the mucous membranes and protects the airways thanks to its immune-strengthening and anti-inflammatory properties.

The highlight: the combination of both ingredients promotes the body’s own metabolic mechanisms and helps support the natural self-cleansing of the lungs. Especially for chronic respiratory complaints, this product can be a valuable companion. It can be easily integrated into everyday life – ideally in the morning before breakfast with a glass of high-quality water.

Discover how SerraZYM plus can help you naturally care for your airways. Learn more about the product and its many benefits here

Testimonials: Natural relief through SerraZYM plus with serrapeptase and cat’s claw

Michaela, 42:
“Finally fewer coughing fits and deeper breaths”
“I have suffered from asthma since childhood, which torments me especially in winter with constant coughing fits and shortness of breath. Through my naturopath, I came across SerraZYM plus by dr. reinwald vital and decided to try it. After just the first few weeks, my airways felt freer, and the pressure on my chest eased. The coughing fits became less frequent and less intense. Now I can breathe deeply again and look forward to winter walks without fear of the next coughing fit.”

Stefan, 35:
“Allergic cough under control”
“As an allergy sufferer, I struggle every spring with a persistent cough. Through a friend’s recommendation, I came across SerraZYM plus. After about a month, I already noticed that my cough had changed. The constant scratchiness in my throat subsided, and I no longer had to clear my throat so often. The combination of the two ingredients helped me get my allergic cough better under control.”

Lena, 28:
“Chronic cough? Not anymore!”
“I had a chronic cough for years. When I read online about the positive effects of serrapeptase and cat’s claw, I came across SerraZYM plus. At first, I noticed how my cough changed – the mucus loosened more easily, and the coughing fits became fewer. After about two months, the cough had almost disappeared. Finally, I can breathe freely again!”