Chocolate for coughs
That is why chocolate helps against coughs
Cocoa contains theobromine, a substance that belongs to the chemical group of alkaloids, as does the cough suppressant codeine. Just like codeine, theobromine acts on the central nervous system by reducing the activity of the nerves that mediate coughing, thereby weakening the cough reflex.
Codeine is a derivative (derivative) of the opioid morphine, has some side effects and falls under the Narcotics Act. Theobromine is said to have a stronger and more permanent effect than codeine and to have fewer side effects. Theobromine in chocolate is harmless to humans because it is contained in small doses and therefore practically cannot be overdosed. However, it can be dangerous for animals because they are less able to metabolize this substance.
Are you interested in other cough treatments? Then read our next article on this under:
- Cough suppressants
- Home remedies for coughs
Which chocolate works best?
Theobromine is a component of the cocoa bean. Cocoa is used in different amounts for different types of chocolate. So dark chocolate, which has a high cocoa content of e.g. 70 or even 80%, as it contains significantly more theobromine than milk chocolate.
Unsweetened dark chocolate contains up to 1600mg theobromine per 100g, sweetened dark chocolate around 530mg and milk chocolate still contains around 220mg theobromine per 100g.
What effect can be expected?
In an English study, 300 test persons who suffered from persistent coughs were examined. They received 1 g of theobromine per day, which was administered in capsule form, for a period of two weeks. As a result, the symptoms were significantly alleviated in 60% of the test persons, but they returned after they stopped taking theobromine. Theobromine can suppress cough, but not fight the cause.
Are you interested in this topic? For other cough treatment options, see:
- Home remedies for coughs
- Cough medication
How long does the effect last?
Theobromine's effects on the cough last as long as theobromine is taken regularly. Chocolate therapy for coughs is therefore only successful as long as dark chocolate is regularly consumed.
What are the side effects?
Codeine, the cough suppressant commonly used in medicine, is a derivative of morphine and has similar side effects, including the possibility of addiction. Theobromine itself has no serious side effects. Due to a structural similarity to caffeine, however, the blood vessels, for example, expand and the urge to urinate is increased. Theobromine has a weaker effect than caffeine in this regard. However, the side effects of regular chocolate consumption should be pointed out: Weight gain and constipation are common.
Also read on this topic: Side effects of morphine
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