Bronchitis is a condition of bronchial tubes in which they experience inflammation and disturbed passage of air to lungs. Bronchitis is categorized into acute and chronic bronchitis.Acute bronchitis lasts for a few days being caused by the same virus that causes common cold. However, chronic bronchitis ends up in long-term respiratory problems. Here are some herbs that relieve from symptoms of bronchitis.
Best Herbal Remedies For Bronchitis
Licorice
Famous as a remedy for various respiratory disorders, licorice also treats bronchitis. The active component in licorice is glycyrrhizin that has strong antiviral, antibacterial, antirheumatic, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that stimulate cells to produce antiviral compounds on their own. It also acts as an expectorant. Licorice soothes mucus membranes in throat and lungs. It also relieves congestion caused by excessive phlegm in lungs as well as bronchial tubes.
Licorice is easily found in capsule form. Daily recommended dosage of licorice capsules is 400mg to 500mg. You can brew it into tea and sip three to four times daily. As an alternative, you can soak ¼ licorice root in some water for 15 minutes and drink the mixture after straining it. However, people with high blood pressure, heart disorders and liver disease should avoid licorice. Pregnant women and nursing mothers should also avoid taking licorice.
Mullein
This herb acts as an expectorant on bronchitis-related thick secretions. Hence, it has been in use since time immemorial for treating respiratory disorders. Mullein contains saponins and mucilage that act as demulcent thereby leaving a soothing thin film on the irritated mucus membranes. Hence it reduces the cough associated with bronchitis.It reduces muscle spasms and soothes sore throat. Besides mullein contains hesperidin and coumarin that have amazing antiviral, anti-inflammatory, fungicidal, bactericidal and antioxidant properties that offer relief from various symptoms of bronchitis. Recommended daily dosage of mullein is 3g. You can also brew its dried leaves into tea and sip it thrice daily for effective results.
Yarrow
This perennial herb has anti-inflammatory oils as active agents. These oils relieve congestion in mucus membranes. Yarrow reduces swelling in trachea as well as bronchi thereby relieving congestion associated with bronchitis. It also heals various other respiratory inflammations.Since it is a decongestant and leaves a drying effect, it is extremely useful against sinus infections and excessive sputum production. High fever is a common symptom of bronchitis and yarrow brings down the fever by increasing perspiration rate of the body.
Eucalyptus Oil
It calms the irritation in bronchial tubes. It has strong antiviral properties that offer quick relief from symptoms of bronchitis. It loosens phlegm and relieves congestion caused by bronchitis. Put a few (15 to 20) drops of eucalyptus oil into warm water and inhale the moist and warm air. This process unblocks the bronchial tubes and promotes smooth flow of air.
Slippery Elm
When this herb is mixed with water, it forms a ‘slippery’ or gelatinous substance. This particular herb contains mucilage that relieves inflamed tissues. It offers quick relief from soreness in throat as well as cough.It leaves a soothing coat on irritated throat, reduces irritation in mucus membranes, and relieves soreness and cough.
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Basil
Because of its strong antiviral and antibacterial properties, this herb relieves sore throat and inflammation. It not only heals but also strengthens the respiratory system.It has strong anti-toxic properties that help the body get rid of excessive phlegm caused by bronchitis. It also brings down fever caused by bronchitis. It is best taken as tea since it helps clear mucus right from nose. Pregnant women should avoid taking basil.
Ginseng
The active components in ginseng are ginsenosides that decrease the inflammation as well as swelling of the bronchial tubes and hence clears air passage. Ginseng prevents the bronchial system from bacterial attacks. It further cleanses the body internally thereby preventing mucus accumulation in body.It also helps the body get rid of toxins causing bronchitis permanently. Regular intake of ginseng ensures normal activity of the lymph system. Patients of heart disease and people with high blood pressure should avoid taking ginseng.
