Can Alcohol Be Used as a Cough Suppressant?

Many find that alcohol can be an effective remedy for a dry cough, especially during a cold. I can attest that when the cough hits, alcohol is the only thing that brings relief. Whether it’s just to help you sleep or to find some comfort in the midst of a cold, alcohol can be incredibly useful. However, it is important to note that the use of alcohol during a cold is a matter of personal choice, and some may opt to avoid it, especially those concerned about their health or sobriety. But for those who find it helpful, alcohol can be a lifesaver.

How Does Alcohol Relieve a Cough?

Although there is some debate, alcohol does have one thing in common with cough suppressants like dextromethorphan. Both work by antagonizing N-Methyl-D-Aspartate (NMDA) receptors in the brain. This might explain why alcohol can bring relief from a cough. In the US, prescription-only options like codeine are not commonly used for colds, but alcohol can be just as effective as over-the-counter remedies, especially when combined with other cold management techniques such as tea and lemon.

Whisky as a Cough Suppressant

For those in the US, a personal favorite is whisky in hot tea with a bit of lemon. This is an effective and personal remedy that can provide as much or even more symptomatic relief than store-bought cough medicines. It's important to note that whisky should not be confused with other types of spirits like Jack Daniels, which is made in Tennessee. Real whisky, specifically bottled in Scotland, can only be mixed or diluted with ice if it is from Scotland. This is a unique cultural aspect that enhances the experience of using whisky as a remedy.

Why Not Use Alcohol as a Cough Suppressant?

While alcohol can be effective in relieving a cough, it is not without its drawbacks. One of the most significant is that alcohol tends to dry out the throat, which can increase discomfort and exacerbate the cough. Instead of using alcohol, one of the best natural cough suppressants is a medium-dark chocolate. Chewing on or allowing a piece of chocolate to dissolve in your mouth can provide relief by coating and soothing the throat.

Conclusion

Alcohol can be an effective, albeit unconventional, cough suppressant. However, it comes with its own set of pros and cons. Whether or not to use alcohol during a cold is a personal decision that should be made with consideration for one's health and personal preferences. For those seeking natural remedies, a medium-dark chocolate might just be the sweetest solution for soothing a cough.