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This article was co-authored by Jamie Corroon, ND, MPH and by wikiHow staff writer, Danielle Blinka, MA, MPA. Dr. Jamie Corroon, ND, MPH is the founder and Medical Director of the Center for Medical Cannabis Education. Dr. Corroon is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor and clinical researcher. In addition to clinical practice, Dr. Corroon advises dietary supplement and cannabis companies regarding science, regulation, and product development. He is well published in the peer-review literature, with recent publications that investigate the clinical and public health implications of the broadening acceptance of cannabis in society. He earned a Masters in Public Health (MPH) in Epidemiology from San Diego State University. He also earned a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine degree from Bastyr University, subsequently completed two years of residency at the Bastyr Center for Natural Health, and is a former adjunct professor at Bastyr University California.
There are 13 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page.
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A cough can be super annoying, especially when it won’t go away. If you have a chronic cough, you might try cannabidiol (CBD) oil to help you get relief. CBD can reduce inflammation in your respiratory system, so it may help you breathe easier.[1] Additionally, it might relax your muscles, which can help you stop coughing, and may help you fall asleep easier.[2] If you want to use CBD oil to treat your cough, choose your preferred delivery method to administer it. Additionally, incorporate other natural treatments for cough to increase the effectiveness of the CBD. However, check with your doctor first and get a proper diagnosis before treating yourself.
Things You Should Know
- CBD oil may decrease hyperreactivity and inflammation in your airways, but there isn’t a ton of research on it and this should not be used as the primary treatment for any kind of lung condition or viral infection.
- Talk to your doctor before you use CBD oil if you have a chronic condition that impacts your breathing, such as asthma or COPD.
- CBD oil tincture will be the fastest way to get relief, but you can also take an edible, capsule, or topical treatment.
- It is generally not advised to vape CBD without consulting your doctor, but this is an especially risky proposition if you’ve got any kind of lung-related issue—even if it’s something as benign as a mild cough.
- Start with a very low dose (like 10 mg or so) to see how it makes you feel and work your way up from there; do not consume more than 1,500 mg in one day.
Steps
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![Step 1 Use a CBD oil tincture for fast results if it doesn’t bother your throat.]()
Use a CBD oil tincture for fast results if it doesn’t bother your throat. A tincture is the fastest way to get relief, so it might be your best bet if you’re hoping to stop a cough. To use a tincture, measure out 1-2 drops using the eyedropper that came with your product. Squeeze the drops under your tongue and hold them there for 30 seconds before swallowing.[3]- You can find trusted CBD oil options online here.
- You’ll likely feel the effects of the CBD in 15-30 minutes if it works for you.
- Some tinctures are sold in a spray bottle. If yours is a spray, apply 1 spritz to the inside of each cheek.
- Tinctures come in different flavors, so choose 1 you like.
Variation: You can mix a tincture into your favorite beverage if you prefer. For instance, you might put 1-2 drops of tincture in a warm mug of tea with honey to help soothe your cough.
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![Step 2 Take CBD capsules for an easy option that won’t irritate your lungs.]()
Take CBD capsules for an easy option that won’t irritate your lungs. Capsules are easy to take and ensure you get a consistent dose each time. Plus, they won't cause further irritation to your throat and airways. Take them as directed on the label.- You can find CBD capsules in a dispensary or online here.
- If they work for you, capsules typically take 30-90 minutes to become effective.
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![Step 3 Experiment with CBD edibles to see if they work for you.]()
Experiment with CBD edibles to see if they work for you. Although CBD edibles are convenient and fun, they typically provide inconsistent results and take 2-4 hours to work. If you want to try edibles, look for candies and snacks that contain CBD at your grocery store, drug store, dispensary, or you can buy gummies online here. Then, consume 1 serving as directed on the label.[4]- If the first edible you try doesn’t work for you, try a different brand to see if you get different results. Everyone is different, so you’ll need to find the products that work best for you.
Tip: Since sucking on a hard candy or lozenge helps a dry cough and sore throat, choose hard candies that contain CBD when you’re treating a cough. This allows you to try 2 natural treatments at once.[5]
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![Step 4 Try inhaled CBD to open your airways if your doctor approves it.]()
Try inhaled CBD to open your airways if your doctor approves it. Some evidence shows that inhaled CBD might act as a bronchodilator, so it may open your airways to help you breathe better. However, it’s not a suitable replacement for an inhaler.[6] If you want to try inhaled CBD to relieve a chronic cough, use a vape pen because it’s the easiest and possibly the safest option. Attach a CBD oil cartridge to a vape pen battery, then follow the battery’s instructions to take 1 puff.[7]- Stop using the vape pen immediately if your cough gets worse.
- You can purchase a vape pen battery and CBD cartridge at a dispensary, smoke shop, or online. The battery is the base of the vape pen, while the cartridge is the part that holds the CBD oil.
Warning: Vaping may damage your lungs and respiratory system. Additionally, scientific evidence shows it might cause shortness of breath and chest pain.[8]
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![Step 5 Start with a 10 mg dose of CBD but increase it as needed.]()
Start with a 10 mg dose of CBD but increase it as needed. One of the few drawbacks of trying CBD is that there isn't a standard recommended dose. Experiment with your CBD products to find the right dose for you. Generally, it’s best to start with a 10 mg dose to see if that works for you. If it doesn’t, increase your dose by 10 mg until you feel the effects of the CBD.[9]- You likely won’t feel the effects until you take at least 30 mg.
- Keep in mind that CBD doesn’t have an upper threshold, so you don’t need to worry about overdosing. However, you might experience side effects like diarrhea and fatigue if you take a dose that’s high for you.
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![Step 1 Drink lots of fluids to thin the mucus in your throat.]()
Drink lots of fluids to thin the mucus in your throat. You probably already know that it’s best to drink extra fluids when you’re sick. Staying hydrated can actually help you get over a cough by thinning out your mucus and soothing a dry throat. Sip on non-alcoholic drinks throughout the day and eat watery foods, such as fruits, veggies, and soup.[10]- Water is always a great option, but everything you drink counts.
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![Step 2 Use honey to loosen your mucus so your coughs are productive.]()
Use honey to loosen your mucus so your coughs are productive. Honey is a natural cough treatment and sore throat reliever because it soothes your throat and thins out your mucus. Consume a spoonful of honey for an easy option. Alternatively, stir a spoonful of honey into a mug of tea for a soothing drink.[11]- You don’t need to precisely measure the honey. Use a teaspoon or cereal spoon to take an approximate measurement.
- Never give honey to a baby who’s under 1-year-old. While it’s rare, honey can cause infant botulism in young babies.[12]
Tip: Honey that contains CBD is available for purchase through some retailers. Check if you can purchase it where you live to combine both treatments.
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![Step 3 Suck on a lozenge to soothe a dry cough and sore throat.]()
Suck on a lozenge to soothe a dry cough and sore throat. Sore throats are common with a cough, especially if you’re dealing with a chronic cough. Fortunately, you can soothe your throat and ease your cough with a lozenge. Choose a cough drop, throat drop, or hard candy, depending on your preference. Then, suck on the lozenge to help you produce more saliva and to coat your throat.[13]- Keep in mind that hard candies might relieve your symptoms as well as a cough drop.
- Look for a lozenge that contains honey for added benefits.
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![Step 4 Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air and soothe your airways.]()
Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air and soothe your airways. Dry airways may trigger a cough, so using a humidifier may help you find relief. Run a humidifier in the room where you are to fill the room with steam. The moist air air will relieve a dry throat and moisten your airways, which might help you stop coughing.[14]- If you like, add a treatment to your humidifier water, such as Vicks VapoSteam Cough Suppressant.
Variation: If you don’t have a humidifier, turn on a hot shower and let the steam fill your bathroom. Sit in the steam for about 10 minutes to help soothe your throat and airways.
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![Step 1 Check with your doctor before using CBD oil.]()
Check with your doctor before using CBD oil. Although CBD oil is generally safe, it’s not right for everyone. CBD oil may interact with certain medications, especially cold medications that relieve inflammation or relax you for bed. Additionally, CBD might worsen some medical conditions. Discuss CBD with your doctor before you take it to make sure it’s safe for you.[15]- Tell your doctor that you want to use CBD to treat a cough.
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![Step 2 Get a proper diagnosis before treating a chronic cough.]()
Get a proper diagnosis before treating a chronic cough. A cough that lasts longer than 8 weeks for adults or 4 weeks for children is considered chronic. A chronic cough can be painful and annoying, and the best way to relieve it is to treat the underlying cause. Visit your doctor to get a proper diagnosis and to develop a treatment plan for your condition.[16]- Common causes of a chronic cough include postnasal drip, infection, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), though there are also other less common causes.
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![Step 3 Consult your doctor if you have any CBD side effects.]()
Consult your doctor if you have any CBD side effects. Although side effects aren’t common, you may experience some side effects while taking CBD. You’re at a higher risk for side effects if you take a high dose. If you experience side effects, they’ll likely be mild and temporary. However, talk to your doctor to be safe if you develop the following side effects:[17]- Dry mouth
- Diarrhea
- Reduced appetite
- Drowsiness
- Fatigue
Expert Q&A
Tips
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Unlike THC, CBD is non-intoxicating.[18]Thanks
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CBD is legal in many locations, but check the laws for your area before you buy it.[19]Thanks
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Topical CBD products only treat the area where they’re applied, so they aren’t a great option for treating a cough. They’re more appropriate for treating muscle or joint pain at the site.[20]Thanks
Warnings
- Don’t use CBD oil in combination with other cold medicines until you check with your doctor.Thanks
References
- ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2828614/
- ↑ https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Cannabidiol#section=Pharmacology-and-Biochemistry
- ↑ https://www.cbdcentral.com/how-to-take-cbd-oil/
- ↑ https://www.cbdcentral.com/how-to-take-cbd-oil/
- ↑ https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/that-nagging-cough
- ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/6690168
- ↑ https://www.cbdcentral.com/how-to-take-cbd-oil/
- ↑ https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/can-vaping-damage-your-lungs-what-we-do-and-dont-know-2019090417734
- ↑ https://www.consumerreports.org/cbd/how-to-use-cbd-inhale-spray-apply-eat/
- ↑ https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cough/
- ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/chronic-cough/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20351580
- ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/chronic-cough/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20351580
- ↑ https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/that-nagging-cough
- ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/chronic-cough/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20351580
- ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/consumer-health/expert-answers/is-cbd-safe-and-effective/faq-20446700
- ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/chronic-cough/symptoms-causes/syc-20351575
- ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/consumer-health/expert-answers/is-cbd-safe-and-effective/faq-20446700
- ↑ Jamie Corroon, ND, MPH. Medical Director of the Center for Medical Cannabis Education. Expert Interview. 10 March 2020.
- ↑ https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/cannabidiol-cbd-what-we-know-and-what-we-dont-2018082414476
- ↑ https://www.consumerreports.org/cbd/how-to-use-cbd-inhale-spray-apply-eat/
About This Article
Medical Disclaimer
The content of this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, examination, diagnosis, or treatment. You should always contact your doctor or other qualified healthcare professional before starting, changing, or stopping any kind of health treatment.
