Coughs can often be eased with home remedies, and one common remedy is pineapple juice. But does it really work to relieve coughs? Let’s explore the benefits in the following article.
Benefits of Pineapple Juice in Relieving Coughs
Coughing is a natural reflex that helps clear foreign substances from the respiratory system. While there are numerous causes for a cough, some people prefer natural treatments like pineapple juice to manage this condition.
Pineapple juice is believed to help relieve coughs due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme found abundantly in both its fruit and stem. Bromelain is frequently used to treat conditions like bronchitis and sinusitis, as it helps thin mucus and reduce inflammation.
Research suggests that bromelain can ease nasal congestion, relieve coughs, and improve breathing. Pineapple also contains antibacterial compounds and is high in vitamin C, which supports the immune system in combating illness. This combination is thought to help reduce inflammation and promote faster recovery.
While some studies have highlighted bromelain’s potential benefits in relieving coughs, more research is necessary to fully understand the effectiveness and potential side effects of using pineapple juice as a cough remedy.
How To Make Pineapple Juice to Relieve Coughs
If you want to try pineapple juice as a home remedy for a cough, here are a couple of recipes:
Pineapple Juice, Honey, and Salt
Combine the following ingredients:
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- A pinch of salt
- A pinch of pepper
- 1 1/2 tablespoons honey
Drink 1/4 cup of this mixture up to three times a day. Keep in mind that because it contains honey, it’s not suitable for children under one year of age.
Pineapple Juice with Chili and Ginger
Chili may help ease coughs and soothe the throat and nose. Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can also help relieve coughs. You can blend these ingredients into pineapple juice for an enhanced cough remedy.
Blend together:
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- A pinch of salt
- A pinch of pepper
- 1 1/2 tablespoons honey
- 7 cm piece of ginger
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Generally, pineapple juice is safe to consume and has minimal side effects. However, some people may experience nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Due to its high sugar content, it can also cause blood sugar levels to spike, so people with diabetes should consume pineapple juice in moderation. Those with allergies to pineapple or tropical fruits should avoid it altogether.
In addition to pineapple juice, you might also try other home remedies for cough relief, such as:
- Drinking warm water
- Using honey
- Drinking ginger tea
- Inhaling warm steam
- Gargling with salt water
Though pineapple juice can help with cough relief, other treatments may be more effective depending on the cause. For instance, while pineapple juice can be a helpful supplement for coughs related to asthma, it’s essential to continue using prescribed inhalers or other asthma medications as directed by your doctor.
Mild coughs generally resolve within about two weeks. If your cough persists for more than a week or interferes with your sleep, consider seeing a doctor for more targeted treatment. You can also use the Ai Care app’s consultation feature, available on the App Store and Play Store.
Looking for more health tips, first aid advice, or home remedies? Click here!
- dr Nadia Opmalina
Burgess. L. (2024). Does pineapple juice work for cough relief?. Available from: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319126#overview
Gotter, A.(2022). Pineapple Juice and Your Cough. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/pineapple-juice-for-cough
Leonard, J., Fletcher, J. (2023). What can I do to make my cough go away naturally?. Available from: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322394#natural-cough-remedies
Reiff, R. (2023). Natural Cough Remedies. Available from: https://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/ss/slideshow-natural-cough-remedies