There are many wild plants that have long been used to fight cough.
"The most popular plant used as cough medicine is yarrow. Yarrow grows all over Latvia, is widely recognized and used," says Vija Eniņa, expert and doctor of pharmaceutics.
Yarrow is a great cure for inflammation. The well-known camomile is also beneficial as cough remedy: it helps against dry cough. Pine buds, harvested early in spring, will also be useful.
"In summer, a beautiful large plant will bloom: the great mullein. These flowers have antibacterial properties and also help to soften dry cough. It's a natural antibiotic," says Eniņa.
"As a general rule, we know that the broadleaf plantain is great for small bruises and wounds. Dried leaves of this plant help very well against cough," says Eniņa.
Oregano and elecampane will also help clear the airways. "A tasty and valuable plant is the Iceland moss; the red clover makes a nice cup of tea, which will suppress cough."
Thyme, commonly used as a spice, will also help with cough. All the plants can be either mixed or brewed individually.
Disclaimer: Only consume plants you are sure of. Do not use plants you don't recognize or plants that have grown in dubious locations.
