At ACPFOOD, we believe that understanding the underlying causes of respiratory conditions is the first step toward effective natural care. Cough is one of the body’s most important protective mechanisms, helping to clear the airways and lungs of irritants, excess mucus, and foreign particles. When substances such as dust, smoke, allergens, or excessive respiratory secretions irritate the airways, nerve receptors send signals to the brain that trigger the coughing reflex.
Depending on its cause, a cough may be productive and accompanied by sputum, or it may be dry and non-productive. In many cases, cough is temporary and resolves on its own, but persistent or severe coughing may indicate an underlying respiratory disorder that requires proper attention. In this article, we explore the causes, symptoms, and herbal treatment for cough and whooping cough from the perspective of Traditional Iranian Medicine (TIM), including the role of medicinal herbs, traditional remedies, and dietary recommendations.
Many coughs result from irritation of the upper respiratory tract, including the larynx and trachea, caused by inhaled particles or foreign substances. Certain foods, such as peanuts, may accidentally enter the airways and trigger intense coughing. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition in which stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, can also contribute to chronic and recurrent cough. More severe coughing may be associated with lung inflammation caused by infections such as pneumonia or acute bronchitis.
Asthma is another common cause of cough. In asthma, the airways become narrowed and inflamed, often producing a cough that worsens at night or after physical activity. Smoking can also damage the lungs and lead to a condition commonly known as smoker’s cough. This persistent cough may be a sign of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Smokers often experience more severe coughing in the morning as the lungs attempt to clear accumulated mucus. Smoking also damages the tiny hair-like structures called cilia, which normally help remove mucus and debris from the respiratory tract.
If a long-standing smoker’s cough suddenly becomes more severe or increases in frequency, prompt medical evaluation is essential. Chronic cough may also occur as a side effect of certain medications, particularly angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, which are commonly prescribed for high blood pressure and heart conditions.
Effective Actions
Most coughs improve within a few days without the need for specific treatment. However, if a cough persists for more than two weeks, medical advice should be sought. Immediate medical attention is recommended if coughing is accompanied by blood, severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, or significant shortness of breath.
Mild coughs may sometimes be relieved with cough-suppressing medications that reduce irritation and the urge to cough. However, these medications should generally not be used for productive coughs that bring up mucus, as coughing is an important natural mechanism for clearing secretions from the lungs. In addition, inhaling steam may help loosen mucus, soothe irritated airways, and provide temporary relief from coughing symptoms.
Types of Cough in Traditional Iranian Medicine
According to Traditional Iranian Medicine (TIM), cough can present in many different forms depending on its underlying cause, temperament imbalance, and the condition of the respiratory system. A cough may be sudden or chronic, occasional or persistent, painful or painless, mild or severe, dry or productive, and either quiet or loud in nature. Understanding these different patterns helps practitioners identify the underlying cause and select the most appropriate herbal treatment for cough and whooping cough.
A strong cough is one that occurs with considerable force and resembles an intentional or artificial effort. The intensity of such a cough depends largely on the elasticity of the lungs and the strength of the respiratory muscles. In contrast, a weak cough lacks sufficient force during exhalation and is often observed in conditions such as pulmonary emphysema, bronchitis, pneumonia, pleurisy, and inflammation of the intercostal muscles, which may also be accompanied by pain.
Cough may also vary in frequency. Some coughs occur only occasionally, while others are continuous, recurrent, or temporary. A relatively infrequent cough is commonly associated with conditions such as pleurisy and pneumonia. On the other hand, frequent coughing is often seen in bronchitis and other inflammatory respiratory disorders. Painless coughs may occur in chronic dry inflammation of the trachea as well as in certain long-standing lung diseases.
The sound and resonance of a cough are influenced by the vibration of the vocal cords and the condition of the trachea. Factors such as the strength and pressure of the airflow, the length and structure of the trachea, and the amount of mucus present can all affect the character of the cough. As a result, coughs may be loud or quiet, dry or moist, harsh or soft, each providing valuable clues about the underlying condition of the respiratory tract.
Wet Cough
A wet cough, also known as a productive cough, occurs when mucus or respiratory secretions are present in the airways. During coughing, these secretions are carried from the lungs into the larger bronchial tubes, trachea, and larynx and are expelled as air is forcefully released from the respiratory system.
Wet coughs are often associated with respiratory infections, bronchitis, pneumonia, and other conditions that cause increased mucus production in the lungs and airways. In Traditional Iranian Medicine, the presence, color, consistency, and amount of sputum are considered important indicators of the underlying nature of the disorder and may help guide the selection of an appropriate herbal treatment for cough and whooping cough.
Unlike a dry cough, which occurs without mucus production, a wet cough serves a beneficial purpose by helping the body remove excess secretions, irritants, and infectious material from the respiratory tract. For this reason, treatment often focuses on supporting the natural clearance of mucus while addressing the underlying cause of its production.
Dry Cough
A dry cough is a cough that occurs without the production or expulsion of mucus or respiratory secretions. This type of cough is often characterized by irritation, tickling, or discomfort in the throat and airways and may persist without providing relief.
Dry coughs can occur in a variety of conditions, including pleurisy, viral infections, allergic reactions, asthma, environmental irritation, and certain chronic respiratory disorders. In pleurisy, for example, inflammation of the lining surrounding the lungs often causes a persistent dry and painful cough.
In Traditional Iranian Medicine, the nature of a dry cough, its duration, accompanying symptoms, and the patient’s overall temperament are important factors in determining the most suitable herbal treatment for cough and whooping cough. Treatment is generally aimed at soothing irritated tissues, reducing inflammation, and restoring balance within the respiratory system.
Long Cough
A long cough is characterized by prolonged coughing episodes that may continue for an extended period of time. During a typical cough, a short and forceful exhalation occurs. In some conditions, however, the trachea does not open completely or remains partially narrowed, causing the exhaled air to strike the vocal cords and produce a short, sharp sound.
In Traditional Iranian Medicine and clinical respiratory assessment, careful examination of the chest and respiratory secretions is considered important for identifying the underlying cause of persistent coughing and other lung disorders. Observing breathing patterns, chest movements, and the quality of inhalation and exhalation can provide valuable information about the condition of the lungs and respiratory muscles.
The movement of the chest during breathing depends largely on the activity of the intercostal muscles and the diaphragm. These muscles expand the chest cavity, allowing the lungs to fill with air. In conditions such as pleurisy, pneumonia, tuberculosis, and other respiratory diseases, normal breathing patterns may become altered. Changes in the rhythm, depth, and intensity of breathing can often indicate the severity of the underlying disorder.
When the respiratory muscles become painful or weakened, breathing movements may appear irregular or trembling. This phenomenon, sometimes referred to as trembling breathing, may be observed in conditions such as tuberculosis, pulmonary emphysema, and pneumonia during advanced stages of lung inflammation.
In general, three important factors should be evaluated during respiration:
- The pattern of inhalation and exhalation
- The strength and intensity of breathing
- The rhythm and sound of respiration
In severe respiratory diseases, the lungs may lose some of their ability to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide efficiently. As a result, breathing may become faster, shallower, or more labored. Such changes may occur in pneumonia, severe pleurisy, pulmonary tuberculosis, and other disorders that impair normal lung function.
Traditional physicians also paid close attention to abnormal respiratory sounds. Changes in chest resonance, hollow sounds, metallic tones, or unusual breathing noises were historically considered important diagnostic clues. These observations helped practitioners assess the progression and severity of respiratory illnesses and guided the selection of an appropriate herbal treatment for cough and whooping cough based on the patient’s condition and symptoms.
Different Coughs Herbal Treatments
According to Traditional Iranian Medicine, the treatment of cough depends on its underlying cause, temperament, and accompanying symptoms. However, certain dietary and lifestyle recommendations are commonly advised for most types of cough. As part of a comprehensive herbal treatment for cough and whooping cough, patients are encouraged to avoid smoking, exposure to polluted or dusty environments, pickles, spicy foods, fried foods, iced water, very cold beverages, and ice cream, as these may aggravate respiratory irritation.
Instead, the following foods and natural remedies are traditionally recommended: fresh figs, dried peaches, Russian olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia L.), almonds, pistachios, hazelnuts, milk, almond porridge, sweet almond oil, boiled egg yolk, boiled lentil broth, watermelon peel jam prepared with high-quality honey, cooked spinach, fenugreek with honey, fresh leeks with boiled chicken, hazelnut oil, quince seed mucilage (Cydonia oblonga Mill.), alyssum seed (Alyssum alyssoides), plantain leaves and seeds (Plantago major L.), lallemantia seeds, basil seeds (Ocimum basilicum L.), watermelon seed extract sweet violet syrup (Viola odorata L.).
Also add water lily syrup (Nymphaea alba L.), raw turnip juice, jujube syrup (Ziziphus jujuba Mill.), quince jam, boiled leek juice, a small amount of bitter almond with starch, Jerusalem artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus), okra (Abelmoschus esculentus), manna of hedysarum, trehala manna, wild pistachio (Pistacia atlantica Desf.), alfalfa seed, licorice root extract (Glycyrrhiza glabra L.), mung beans, fresh peppermint (Mentha piperita L.), Assyrian plum (Cordia myxa L.), leek, Chinese rhubarb (Rheum officinale), and coffee. Black seed incense may also be used traditionally.
To soothe coughing, mix cooked starch with sweet almond oil, sweeten lightly, and consume it warm and gradually.
Additional traditional remedies include:
- Mix fresh basil juice with milk and drink it.
- Dissolve 3 grams of powdered gum Arabic (Senegalia senegal) in boiling water and drink it warm and gradually.
- Grind cherry or sour cherry tree resin and consume it with lukewarm water.
- Cook figs and drink their juice.
- Dissolve starch in sweet pomegranate juice, sweeten with sugar, and drink.
- Consume 30 grams of tallow gradually on an empty stomach.
- Brew 50 grams of apple tree blossoms in one liter of boiling water, strain, and drink throughout the day.
- Boil ajwain seeds (Trachyspermum ammi), maidenhair fern leaves (Adiantum capillus-veneris L.), and figs together, then drink the decoction.
- Boil marshmallow flowers (Althaea officinalis L.) and jujube fruits (Ziziphus jujuba Mill.) for 20 minutes. Inhale the steam and drink the decoction.
- Brew 50 grams of quince blossoms (Cydonia oblonga Mill.) in one liter of boiling water and drink the strained decoction throughout the day.
- Brew Indian lavender (Lavandula angustifolia Mill.) and drink one cup of the filtered infusion between meals.
- Brew 30 grams of fig tree leaves in one liter of boiling water and drink one-third of the decoction in the morning, noon, and evening.
- Cut a bitter orange in half. Sprinkle ground rock candy on one half and starch on the other. Warm gently until juices are released, then collect and drink the juice.
- Grind 15 raw almonds with their shells, boil in half a liter of milk, strain, and drink.
- Prepare black radish syrup by mixing grated black radish (Raphanus sativus) with rock candy and allowing it to stand for one day. Alternatively, fill a hollowed black radish with crushed rock candy and allow it to form syrup. Consume one tablespoon every hour.
Another traditional formula consists of:
- Half-crushed jujube (Ziziphus jujuba Mill.) — 100 grams
- Assyrian plum (Cordia myxa L.) — 15 grams
- Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis L.) — 15 grams
- Germander (Teucrium polium) — 10 grams
- Persian borage (Echium amoenum) — 10 grams
- Maidenhair fern (Adiantum capillus-veneris L.) — 10 grams
- Hyssop flowers (Hyssopus officinalis L.) — 10 grams
Mix and divide into seven equal portions. Boil one portion each morning before breakfast, strain, sweeten, and drink.
Other traditional remedies include:
- Cook 100 grams of chopped jujubes in six liters of water until soft, strain thoroughly, add one kilogram of sugar, and boil to form a syrup. Consume two tablespoons every hour.
- Boil 7 grams of bitter hazelnut root daily and drink the decoction.
- Soak and peel 50 grams of sweet almonds, grind into a paste with a little cold water, add 50 grams of honey or sugar, and consume gradually.
- Infuse 20 grams of dried flowering oregano stems (Origanum vulgare L.) in one liter of boiling water for 12 minutes. Strain, sweeten with honey, and drink one cup before meals.
- Boil 30 grams of sweet violet flowers (Viola odorata L.) in one liter of cold water, infuse for 15 minutes, strain, sweeten, and consume one tablespoon every two hours.
- Mix 15 grams of white tragacanth (Astragalus gummifer), 7 grams of gum Arabic (Senegalia senegal), and 7 grams of quince seeds (Cydonia oblonga Mill.), grind thoroughly, prepare a stiff paste, and form pea-sized pills. Take two pills three times daily.
- Boil 15 grams of Shirazi thyme (Zataria multiflora Boiss.) in one liter of water, strain, add 250 grams of honey, and consume one tablespoon every hour.
- Infuse 10 grams of hyssop flowers (Hyssopus officinalis L.) in one liter of boiling water for 15 minutes, strain, sweeten with honey, and drink throughout the day.
- Soak 50 grams of dried lemon in one liter of cold water for two hours, boil briefly, infuse for 10 minutes, strain, sweeten with honey, and drink one cup three times daily.
- Boil 50 grams of licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra L.) in one liter of water for five minutes and allow it to stand for 12 hours. Drink gradually throughout the day. (Individuals with high blood pressure should avoid this remedy.)
- Boil a handful of crushed almond shells for 30 minutes, strain, add a few drops of lemon juice, sweeten, and drink.
- Grind 20 grams each of raw pistachio kernels, raw almond kernels, raw chilgoza pine seeds (Pinus gerardiana), and flax seeds with 50 grams of sugar. Take one tablespoon before meals and drink with water.
Another traditional prescription includes:
- Persian borage flowers (Echium amoenum) — 5 grams
- White sandalwood (Santalum album) — 5 grams
- Peony root (Paeonia) — 5 grams
- Maidenhair fern (Adiantum capillus-veneris L.) — 5 grams
- Aniseed (Pimpinella anisum) — 10 grams
- Damask rose (Rosa damascena Mill.) — 10 grams
- Marshmallow seeds (Althaea officinalis) — 30 grams
- Licorice powder (Glycyrrhiza glabra L.) — 5 grams
Mix thoroughly, divide into ten portions, add chopped currants, and prepare as a decoction. Soak each portion overnight in one and a half glasses of boiling water, boil in the morning, strain, sweeten, and drink. The pulp may be boiled again in the evening and consumed a second time.
To further soothe the throat and respiratory passages, cooked starch mixed with sweet almond oil and lightly sweetened may be consumed warm and gradually throughout the day.
Types of Cough in Traditional Iranian Medicine
In Traditional Iranian Medicine, cough is not considered a single condition but rather a symptom that can arise from different underlying causes and imbalances within the body. Therefore, the approach to herbal treatment for cough and whooping cough varies depending on the type of cough, its severity, accompanying symptoms, and the individual’s temperament.
Traditional sources describe several forms of cough, including dry cough, cough in hot temperaments, successive cough, severe and persistent cough, cough accompanied by shortness of breath, cough caused by excess blood or yellow bile, cough resulting from moisture and phlegm, phlegmatic cough with breathing difficulty, cough with sputum production, bloody cough, nervous cough, cough associated with coronary artery spasm, cough accompanied by side pain and shortness of breath, chronic and long-standing cough, and whooping cough. Understanding these different types helps guide the selection of appropriate dietary recommendations, herbal remedies, and traditional treatments.
Dry Cough
A dry cough is typically characterized by a harsh, irritating sensation in the throat and airways without significant mucus or sputum production. In this type of cough, bronchial secretions are not easily expelled, which may lead to persistent throat irritation and discomfort. According to Traditional Iranian Medicine, the herbal treatment for cough and whooping cough should begin with avoiding factors that may aggravate the condition.
People suffering from a dry cough should avoid drinking iced water, consuming very cold beverages, ice cream, pickles, spicy foods, fried foods, smoking, and exposure to polluted or dusty air. Instead, they are encouraged to consume soothing foods such as dates, almonds, strawberries, apple compote, quince seed mucilage, almond gum, Sweet Violet syrup (Viola odorata L.), and Hyssop syrup (Hyssopus officinalis L.).
Traditional Remedies for Dry Cough
- Mix sweet almond oil with a small amount of ground white Gum Tragacanth (Astragalus gummifer Labill.), add some sugar, and consume gradually.
- Combine fresh onion juice with an equal amount of honey and take as directed.
- Burn a whole pomegranate, grind it into a fine powder, mix it with honey, and apply the mixture as a poultice to the chest.
These traditional remedies have been used historically to help soothe throat irritation and support respiratory comfort.
Cough in Hot Temperaments
According to Traditional Iranian Medicine, some coughs may occur in individuals with a hot and moist temperament and may be associated with an excess of blood and heat in the body. In such cases, the approach to herbal treatment for cough and whooping cough focuses on reducing the underlying heat and restoring balance.
Traditional texts recommend first addressing the excess blood and heat in the body. Afterward, cooling foods and remedies may be used to help soothe the respiratory system and reduce coughing.
The following traditional remedies and foods have been recommended for relieving this type of cough:
- Non-alcoholic beer
- Plantago ovata mucilage
- Opium poppy syrup (Papaver somniferum)
- Water Lily syrup (Nymphaea alba L.)
- Sweet Violet syrup (Viola odorata L.)
- Purgative manna
These traditional recommendations are intended to support respiratory comfort by helping to cool the body’s temperament and ease irritation of the airways. Individuals with persistent cough, difficulty breathing, chest pain, high fever, or other significant symptoms should seek professional medical evaluation and treatment.
Successive Cough
A successive cough refers to repeated coughing episodes that occur frequently and continuously, often causing irritation, fatigue, and discomfort. In Traditional Iranian Medicine, the herbal treatment for cough and whooping cough is selected according to the nature and persistence of the cough.
To help relieve successive coughs, the following traditional remedy has been recommended:
- Brew 10 grams of dried peppermint leaves (Mentha piperita L.) in one glass of boiling water for approximately 12 minutes. Then strain the infusion, sweeten it with honey, and drink it three times daily—morning, noon, and evening.
This traditional preparation has been used to help soothe the respiratory tract and reduce the frequency of repeated coughing episodes. If a persistent cough continues for an extended period or is accompanied by symptoms such as fever, shortness of breath, chest pain, or blood in the sputum, medical evaluation is recommended.
Severe and Hard Coughs
Severe and hard coughs are often characterized by intense, persistent coughing episodes that may cause throat irritation, chest discomfort, and fatigue. In Traditional Iranian Medicine, the herbal treatment for cough and whooping cough aims to soothe the respiratory tract, reduce irritation, and support easier breathing.
The following traditional remedies have been recommended for severe and hard coughs:
Drink one cup of black pomegranate juice three times a day. Alternatively, cut a black pomegranate into several pieces, boil it in water, and drink the resulting decoction.
Boil 60 grams of iris root (Iris persica L.) in one liter of water for 10 minutes, then allow it to infuse for an additional 20 minutes. Strain, sweeten with honey, and drink one cup every 45 minutes.
Hollow out the center of a large black radish, fill it with sugar, replace the top, and leave it for several hours. Consume the syrup that forms inside the radish.
Boil 60 grams of cauliflower in one liter of water. Strain the liquid, mix it with 60 grams of honey, and drink the preparation gradually.
These traditional remedies have historically been used to help calm persistent coughing and soothe the respiratory passages.
Cough with Shortness of Breath
A cough accompanied by shortness of breath can be particularly uncomfortable, as it may interfere with normal breathing and daily activities. In Traditional Iranian Medicine, the herbal treatment for cough and whooping cough in such cases focuses on soothing the respiratory tract, supporting lung function, and easing breathing difficulties.
For this type of cough, quince juice and quince jam are traditionally considered beneficial and may help relieve irritation of the respiratory system.
The following traditional remedies have also been recommended:
Boil some savory (Satureja hortensis) together with a few figs and drink the resulting decoction.
Boil a mixture of fennel seeds (Foeniculum vulgare Mill.), maidenhair fern (Adiantum capillus-veneris L.), and figs. Strain the decoction, sweeten it as desired, and drink it gradually.
These traditional preparations have been used historically to help ease coughing episodes associated with breathing discomfort.
Cough Caused by Blood and Yellow Bile
According to Traditional Iranian Medicine, some coughs may result from the predominance of blood or yellow bile in the body. In such cases, the herbal treatment for cough and whooping cough begins with correcting the underlying humoral imbalance. Individuals with this type of cough should avoid iced water, frozen beverages, ice cream, pickles, spicy foods, fried foods, smoking, and exposure to dusty or polluted air. Consuming porridge regularly is also traditionally recommended.
The following traditional remedies have been used for cough associated with excess blood or yellow bile:
- Mix ground salep (Orchis mascula) with one glass of boiled milk and drink it every morning for five consecutive days.
- Boil equal amounts of half-pounded jujube (Ziziphus jujuba Mill.), purified trehala manna, opium poppy (Papaver somniferum), and sweet violet flowers (Viola odorata L.). Drink one tablespoon of the decoction every hour.
- Prepare a pottage using rice, plenty of coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.), turnips, and pumpkin, and consume it regularly.
- Keep one or two Assyrian plums (Cordia myxa L.) in the mouth throughout the day and night, gradually swallowing their mucilage and juice.
- Grind pumpkin leaves, flowers, and seed kernels, boil them, and drink the resulting decoction.
- Mix equal amounts of pumpkin flowers, maidenhair fern (Adiantum capillus-veneris L.), Assyrian plum (Cordia myxa L.), lemon balm (Melissa officinalis L.), sweet violet flowers (Viola odorata L.), and quince seeds (Cydonia oblonga Mill.). Boil the mixture, strain it, and drink one cup every morning, noon, and evening.
- Combine equal amounts of basil seeds (Ocimum basilicum L.), alyssum seeds (Alyssum alyssoides), trehala manna, plantain seeds (Plantago major L.), lallemantia seeds, quince seeds (Cydonia oblonga Mill.), and gum Arabic (Senegalia senegal). Boil one tablespoon of the mixture with a little sugar and consume it warm three times daily, including both the liquid and the softened seeds.
- Five times daily, mix gelatin powder with equal amounts of finely ground trehala manna and gum Arabic (Senegalia senegal), add boiling water, and consume the preparation while warm.
- Apply warm cupping to the chest and sides according to traditional practice.
- Every day, boil 10 grams each of blue mallow flowers (Malva sylvestris L.), hyssop flowers (Hyssopus officinalis L.), and sweet violet flowers (Viola odorata L.). Dissolve 20 grams of manna of hedysarum in the decoction, strain it, and drink it.
These traditional remedies have historically been used to soothe respiratory irritation and help restore humoral balance.
Cough Caused by Excess Moisture
According to Traditional Iranian Medicine, some coughs are believed to result from an excess of moisture in the body and respiratory system. In such cases, treatment focuses on reducing excessive moisture and supporting the healthy function of the lungs and airways. As part of the herbal treatment for cough and whooping cough, several traditional remedies have been recommended.
The following foods and preparations are considered beneficial for cough associated with excess moisture:
Eat cooked garlic regularly.
Drink boiled milk with garlic.
Use squill bulb sekanjebin, a traditional preparation made with squill bulb and sekanjebin syrup.
These traditional remedies have historically been used to help reduce excess moisture, soothe the respiratory tract, and relieve coughing.
Phlegmatic Cough Accompanied by Shortness of Breath
In Traditional Iranian Medicine, a cough associated with phlegmatic temperament and shortness of breath is believed to result from the accumulation of excess phlegm and moisture within the respiratory system. As part of the herbal treatment for cough and whooping cough, remedies are traditionally used to help clear phlegm, support breathing, and reduce respiratory discomfort.
To relieve a phlegmatic cough accompanied by shortness of breath, the following traditional remedy has been recommended:
Boil 250 grams of squill bulb vinegar with one kilogram of honey until the mixture becomes thick. Take one tablespoon every hour.
This traditional preparation has historically been used to help loosen phlegm and ease breathing difficulties.
Cough with Sputum
A cough with sputum is characterized by the production and expulsion of mucus or phlegm from the respiratory tract. In Traditional Iranian Medicine, this type of cough is managed by supporting the body’s natural ability to clear accumulated secretions from the lungs and airways. As part of the herbal treatment for cough and whooping cough, certain natural remedies are traditionally recommended.
To help relieve a cough accompanied by sputum:
Mix one glass of celery juice with lemon juice and drink it every morning and every night.
This traditional remedy has been used to help support respiratory health and facilitate the removal of excess mucus.
Bloody Cough
A bloody cough refers to coughing that is accompanied by the presence of blood in the sputum. Because this symptom can be associated with serious respiratory conditions, it should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional. In Traditional Iranian Medicine, certain remedies have historically been used to help support respiratory comfort. As part of the herbal treatment for cough and whooping cough, the following traditional remedy has been recommended.
To help relieve a cough accompanied by blood:
Burn a whole pomegranate, then grind it into a fine powder and mix it with honey. Apply the mixture as a poultice on the chest.
While this traditional remedy has been used historically, coughing up blood can be a sign of a serious underlying condition and requires prompt medical attention, especially if the bleeding is recurrent, heavy, or accompanied by shortness of breath, chest pain, fever, or unexplained weight loss.
Nervous Cough
A nervous cough is traditionally described as a cough that may be associated with emotional stress, anxiety, nervous tension, or heightened sensitivity of the respiratory system. In Traditional Iranian Medicine, calming foods and herbal preparations are often recommended to help soothe the body and reduce coughing episodes. As part of the herbal treatment for cough and whooping cough, the following remedies have traditionally been used.
To help relieve a nervous cough:
Eat lettuce regularly.
Drink a decoction of common poppy flowers (Papaver rhoeas).
These traditional remedies have historically been used to promote relaxation and help calm coughs associated with nervous tension.
Cough Accompanied by Coronary Artery Spasm
In Traditional Iranian Medicine, some types of cough are described as occurring alongside coronary artery spasm or chest discomfort. As part of the herbal treatment for cough and whooping cough, certain traditional remedies have been recommended to help relieve symptoms and support overall respiratory comfort.
To help manage this type of cough:
Heat 5 grams of Persian turpentine resin (Pistacia atlantica Desf.) and eat it before going to bed.
Cough Accompanied by Shortness of Breath and Side Pain
A cough that occurs together with **shortness of breath and pain in the side of the chest** may indicate significant irritation or inflammation affecting the respiratory system and surrounding tissues. In Traditional Iranian Medicine, the herbal treatment for cough and whooping cough in such cases often includes soft, soothing foods that are considered easy to digest and supportive of respiratory recovery.
The following traditional remedy has been recommended:
- Mix mashed peeled mung beans with ground spinach and barley (Hordeum vulgare), and eat the preparation every morning and evening.
This traditional food-based remedy has historically been used to provide nourishment while helping soothe the chest and respiratory tract. Because cough with shortness of breath and side pain can sometimes be associated with conditions such as pneumonia, pleurisy, or other significant lung disorders, medical evaluation is recommended if symptoms are severe, persistent, or accompanied by fever, chest pain, worsening breathing difficulty, or blood in the sputum.
Old and Chronic Cough
An old and chronic cough is a persistent cough that continues for a long period and may repeatedly return over time. In Traditional Iranian Medicine, long-standing coughs are often managed through dietary adjustments, herbal remedies, and avoiding factors that may irritate the respiratory system. As part of the herbal treatment for cough and whooping cough, the following traditional recommendations have been used.
The following remedies are traditionally recommended for chronic coughs:
Eat raw pistachios regularly.
Drink a decoction of daikon (Raphanus sativus).
Drink a decoction of common primrose flowers (Primula vulgaris).
Additional traditional remedies include:
Place one teaspoon of softened cinnamon in your mouth and consume it every morning before breakfast.
Mix 75 grams of crushed raw hazelnuts with honey and eat the mixture.
Soak 30 grams of garden pansy flowers (Viola tricolor) in half a liter of cold water for 2 hours. Then boil for 2 minutes and infuse for 10 minutes. Strain the decoction and drink one cup every morning, noon, and night.
At the same time, avoid exposure to polluted air, dust, and smoking, and refrain from consuming spicy foods, fried foods, ice water, iced beverages, ice cream, pepper, strong spices, and confectionery.
Whooping Cough
Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a highly contagious bacterial infection that causes persistent and severe coughing fits. As part of understanding the herbal treatment for cough and whooping cough, it is important to first recognize the nature of this disease and its symptoms.
Whooping cough can occur at any age, but it is most common in children under the age of five. The disease is caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis, which infects and inflames the trachea (windpipe) and the bronchi (airways of the lungs). The infection spreads through tiny droplets released into the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
The illness is characterized by intense coughing attacks that may occur repeatedly and forcefully. These coughing fits can leave the affected person exhausted and may be followed by a distinctive high-pitched “whooping” sound when breathing in. In severe cases, prolonged coughing can lead to facial redness or bluish discoloration due to difficulty breathing during coughing episodes.
Whooping cough is particularly dangerous for infants and young children and can sometimes be life-threatening in babies under 12 months of age. Before the development of effective vaccines, pertussis was responsible for a large number of childhood deaths worldwide. Today, routine childhood immunization has significantly reduced the incidence of this disease and its serious complications.
Although vaccination remains the most effective method of prevention, recognizing the symptoms of whooping cough and seeking timely medical care are essential, especially for young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
Whooping Cough Symptoms
The symptoms of whooping cough usually appear approximately 2 to 3 weeks after infection. In the early stage, the illness often resembles a common cold and may cause only mild symptoms, such as a dry cough, runny nose, and sneezing. This initial phase typically lasts 7 to 14 days, during which the disease is highly contagious and can easily spread to others.
As the infection progresses, the symptoms become more severe and may include:
Repeated coughing attacks followed by a forceful inhalation that produces the characteristic whooping sound. These coughing fits are often more severe at night.
Production of large amounts of sputum during coughing episodes.
Vomiting caused by prolonged and intense coughing fits.
Persistent coughing attacks that may rupture small blood vessels, leading to redness of the face, particularly around the eyes, hairline, and cheeks.
Nosebleeds resulting from the rupture of small blood vessels in the nose.
Complications associated with whooping cough may include pneumonia and bronchiectasis, a condition in which the airways become permanently widened and damaged. In infants and young children, severe coughing fits may temporarily interrupt breathing, resulting in a lack of oxygen. In serious cases, this oxygen deprivation can lead to life-threatening complications, including cardiac arrest or brain injury.
Because whooping cough can be especially dangerous for babies, young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems, prompt medical evaluation and treatment are important when symptoms are suspected.
Whooping Cough Treatment
The diagnosis of whooping cough (pertussis) is often made based on the characteristic sound and pattern of the cough, especially in children. In adults, however, the symptoms may be less obvious, making diagnosis more challenging. In such cases, laboratory testing of samples taken from the throat or nose may be used to identify the presence of Bordetella pertussis bacteria.
Children with severe symptoms may require hospitalization for close observation and supportive care. In some cases, treatment with oxygen and intravenous fluids may be necessary. While the most severe symptoms of whooping cough generally improve within 4 to 15 weeks, a persistent dry cough may continue for several months after the infection has resolved.
As part of modern preventive care, the pertussis vaccine is commonly administered during childhood as part of the DTP vaccine (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis). This vaccination has significantly reduced the incidence of whooping cough and its complications.
In Traditional Iranian Medicine, whooping cough is sometimes referred to as the “three-month cough”, reflecting the traditional belief that the illness often follows a prolonged course before recovery. As part of the herbal treatment for cough and whooping cough, the following foods have traditionally been recommended:
Simple soup
Pumpkin soup
Turnip soup
Turnip syrup
Cooked starch
Porridge
Rice pudding
Chickpea stew
Low-fat cooked rice
Egg yolk
A grape-based diet
Garlic
Radish
Orange
Common primrose flower decoction (Primula vulgaris)
Peony petal infusion
The following traditional remedies have also been used:
Drink one tablespoon of licorice root decoction six times daily.
Boil 3 grams each of Persian borage flower, corn silk, and maidenhair fern (Adiantum capillus-veneris L.). Add pounded rock candy to the filtered decoction and consume it gradually over 24 hours.
Boil equal amounts of corn silk, sour cherry pits, yellow sweet clover kernels (Melilotus officinalis), and hyssop flowers (Hyssopus officinalis L.). Sweeten the decoction with rock candy and drink it 3 to 5 times daily.
Grind dragon’s blood resin (Dracaena cinnabari) in an amount equal to six chickpeas, mix it with an equal amount of sugar, and eat it at bedtime for three nights.
Infuse 10 grams of Indian lavender (Lavandula angustifolia Mill.) in one liter of boiling water for 12 minutes. Drink one cup of the filtered decoction with honey between meals.
Peel and cut 4 apples, then add one liter of water, a handful of raisins, and 15 jujubes (Ziziphus jujuba Mill.). Boil for one hour, strain, add 50 grams of sugar, and boil again until thickened. Consume gradually throughout the day.
Boil 2 cloves of garlic in a cup of milk and drink the milk while it is warm.
Chop 40 to 60 grams of garlic and soak it in 250 grams of hot water for 10 hours. Drink one spoonful every two hours.
Infuse 30 grams of flowering and dried thyme stems (Thymus serpyllum L.) in one liter of boiling water for 12 minutes. Sweeten with honey and drink 4 to 5 cups daily.
Drink the juice of one black pomegranate each day.
Grind 25 grams of fennel seeds (Foeniculum vulgare Mill.), soak them in one liter of red wine for 8 days, and drink one cup after each meal.
Brew 15 to 20 grams of Persian ziziphora (Ziziphora tenuior L.) in one liter of boiling water and drink the decoction.
Consume 3 tablespoons of fresh garden cress juice (Lepidium sativum) daily, divided between morning, noon, and night.
Roast dried figs, grind them, and eat them regularly.
Every morning and night, mix one tablespoon of fish oil with honey or lemon juice and consume it.
Boil 20 grams of basil flowers, leaves, and stems (Ocimum basilicum) together with 20 grams of Shirazi thyme (Zataria multiflora Boiss.) in one liter of boiling water for 12 minutes. Filter the decoction, add two tablespoons of honey, and consume a few tablespoons every half hour.
Cook leeks in milk and drink the milk daily.
Brew one teaspoon of fennel seeds in a cup of hot water for 10 minutes. Sweeten with honey and drink.
Whooping Cough After 3 Months
In cases where whooping cough persists for more than three months, and the underlying cause is unclear, Traditional Iranian Medicine describes extended respiratory weakness and lingering airway irritation. As part of the herbal treatment for cough and whooping cough, complex multi-herb formulations have traditionally been used to support long-term recovery and soothe persistent cough.
The following traditional preparation has been recommended:
Yellow sweet clover kernel (Melilotus officinalis)
Valerian root (Valeriana officinalis L.)
Sweet violet root (Viola odorata L.)
Ground jujube (Ziziphus jujuba Mill.)
Gum Arabic (Senegalia senegal) — 10 grams each
Maidenhair fern (Adiantum capillus-veneris L.)
Trehala manna
Prunus mahaleb
Quince seed
Marjoram (Origanum majorana L.)
Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis L.)
Hyssop flower (Hyssopus officinalis L.) — 20 grams each
Assyrian plum (Cordia myxa L.) and pumpkin flowers — 40 grams each
Pansy flowers (Viola tricolor) — 50 grams
Manna of hedysarum and licorice powder — 60 grams each
Dried squill bulb (Drimia maritima) — 5 grams
Preparation method:
Mix all ingredients together and boil in a closed container. After the decoction cools, filter it and boil again until it becomes thick. Allow it to cool once more, then store it in a sealed bottle. Take one tablespoon five times daily.
This traditional formulation has historically been used for prolonged respiratory conditions, especially chronic coughs following long-standing infection.
Conclusion
At ACPFOOD, we believe that understanding the underlying causes and characteristics of respiratory disorders is an important step toward choosing appropriate care. In Traditional Iranian Medicine, coughs are classified according to their nature, temperament, accompanying symptoms, and underlying humoral imbalances. As discussed throughout this article, different types of coughs, including dry cough, phlegmatic cough, bloody cough, nervous cough, chronic cough, and whooping cough, have traditionally been managed with specific dietary recommendations, medicinal herbs, and lifestyle modifications.
The herbal treatment for cough and whooping cough described in traditional sources includes a wide variety of herbs, fruits, seeds, syrups, and natural remedies that have been used for generations to help soothe the respiratory tract and support recovery. However, persistent cough, difficulty breathing, chest pain, coughing up blood, high fever, or symptoms that worsen over time may indicate a serious underlying condition and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare professional.
By combining traditional knowledge with modern medical awareness, individuals can make more informed decisions about supporting respiratory health and maintaining overall well-being.
Reference:
Daeratol Maarif Giah Darmanie Iran (Noskhehaye Shafabakhsh), by Haji Sharifi, Ahmad (Attare Esfahani)