Therefore chocolate helps against cough
Cocoa contains theobromine, a substance belonging to the chemical group of alkaloids, just like the cough medicine codeine. Just like codeine, theobromine acts on the central nervous system by reducing the activity of the nerves that mediate coughing, thus weakening the cough reflex. Codeine is a derivative (derivative) of the opioid morphine, has some side effects and falls under the narcotics law.
Theobromine is said to have a stronger and longer-lasting effect than codeine and to have fewer side effects. Theobromine in chocolate is not dangerous for humans because it is contained in small doses and therefore cannot be overdosed. For animals, however, it can be dangerous because they are less able to metabolise this substance.
- Cough suppressant
- Home remedy against cough
Which chocolate works best?
Theobromine is a component of the cocoa bean. Cocoa is used in different amounts for different types of chocolate. Dark chocolate, which has a high cocoa content of e.g. 70 or even 80%, is therefore most effective for coughs, as it contains considerably more theobromine than milk chocolate. Unsweetened dark chocolate contains up to 1600mg theobromine per 100g, sweetened dark chocolate about 530mg and milk chocolate still contains about 220mg theobromine per 100g.
What effect can be expected?
In an English study 300 test persons suffering from persistent cough were examined. They were given 1g of theobromine daily for two weeks, administered in capsule form. This significantly relieved the symptoms in 60% of the test subjects, but they returned after stopping taking theobromine.
Theobromine can therefore suppress coughing, but not fight the cause. The effect of theobromine on the cough continues 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?
The cough suppressant codeine commonly used in medicine is a derivative of morphine and has similar side effects, including the possibility of dependence. Theobromine itself has no serious side effects. However, due to a structural similarity to caffeine, the blood vessels are dilated and the urge to urinate is increased.
In this respect, however, theobromine has a weaker effect than caffeine. However, the side effects of regular chocolate consumption should be pointed out: Weight gain and constipation are common.
