Black pepper was once dubbed as black gold, due to its price, its taste and its medicinal value. According to ancient accounts, pepper was used as currency in some parts of the world. Peppercorns originated in the Western Ghats of India; Kerala state to be precise. They are the berries of the Piper nigrum plant, which are then dried before consuming. The spice is used extensively in western and eastern cuisine. The woody, piquant-tasting spice also has many therapeutic uses and features extensively in ancient medicine. Pepper is also used as one of the best home remedies for cough.

The sharp taste of pepper gives relief from the nagging throat irritation often experienced during an episode of cold. The spicy taste also helps in the flow of mucus and opens up nasal passages. Pepper is said to stimulate circulation, and when used with honey, it also acts as a mild antibiotic and cough suppressant. Home Remedies To Prevent and Treat Sore Throat and Cough During Seasonal Change This Winter.

If you have a sore throat and persistent cough, a bowl of chicken soup liberally seasoned with pepper will help to a great extent. Here’s a quick recipe. Another remedy for cough is a quick syrup made with pepper and honey. Why Honey is The Best Natural Remedy For Sore Throat.

For this, you will need a tablespoon of honey with half a teaspoon of pepper powder. Mix the two till they resemble a paste-like consistency. You can either consume it whole or mix it with hot water and drink it like a tea.  Home Remedy of the Week: Cure Cough with Tulsi or Holy Basil.

The antimicrobial qualities of pepper are complemented by honey, which is also one of the best home remedies for cough.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Mar 23, 2019 08:40 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).