Herbs for Bronchitis

Bronchitis is caused due to chronic cough and cold, where there is an acute inflammation of the trachea, and the large and small bronchi within the lungs. Trachea and the large and small bronchi are the air passages in the lungs. Various viruses like influenza A and B as well as bacterias such as Mycoplasma pneumoniae, are known to cause bronchitis. When affected, the thin mucous lining of the airways become irritated and swollen. The phlegm starts to accumulate in the lungs and is only secreted out during excessive coughing. However, continuous coughing causes discomfort and damage to the lungs and airways.

There are many medical treatment available for treating bronchitis, but as with all chemicals, they come with their own side effects. Herbal remedies are known to help in treatment of bronchitis. Following is a list of herbs that are known for their curative powers:

Ginger
Ginger is a thick, beige underground root that has active oils and pungent phenol compounds, that aids in removing congestion and bring down fever. It is a vital ingredient used in cough syrups.

Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus has a sharp, pungent aroma and its oil is used in many ointments, cough syrups, and vapor to help loosen phlegm, treat coughs and relieve congestion. Fresh leaves are recommended in teas and gargles to soothe sore throats, and treat bronchitis and flu.

Yarrow
Yarrow is perennial herb, containing anti-inflammatory oils. It helps to heal and sooth the congestion's from the mucous membranes and reduce respiratory inflammations. It increases the body's perspiration and helps to bring the fever down.

Marshmallow
Marshmallow roots and leaves contain a gummy substance called mucilage, which is mixed with water to form a gel. This gel is applied to the throat to reduce irritation.

Fenugreek
Fenugreek seeds are rich in mucilage, lipids and protease inhibitors, and is used to treat sore throat. It also helps to remove mucus and phlegm from the air passages.

Lobelia
Lobelia is the Indian tobacco and is a highly toxic herb, always recommended in very small doses. It is used to treat respiratory conditions such as asthma, bronchitis and severe coughing.

Basil
Basil herb has antibacterial and antiviral properties, that help sooth an inflamed throat . A cup of basil infused herbal tea is recommended to help clear the mucus from the nose. However, it is not advisable for pregnant women to consume basil herbal medications.

Ginseng
Ginseng contains active chemical components called ginsenosides, which helps to decrease the swelling and inflammation of the lungs by clearing the bronchial air ways. People with acute heart ailment or high blood pressure are not recommended use of this herb.

Moringa Oleifera
Moringa Oleifera acrid roots, leaves and seeds are used to treat broncial cold and cough. They also have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation from the throat and lungs.

Mullein
Mullein herbs constituent coumarin and hesperidin, that have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiviral, bactericidal and fungicidal properties. It has been used as an alternative medicine for curing respiratory problems.

Coltsfoot
Coltsfoot is considered as nature's cough dispeller tobacco. Unlike other tobacco, the use of coltsfoot does not cause any serous negative effects on the body. It has beneficial thoracic properties that helps to relive asthma and breathing problems caused by bronchitis.

Herbs help to heal and treat the body naturally, without causing serious health repercussions. However, when using different herbs for treating bronchitis, its best to consult a qualified herbal practitioner, as different herbal components may not be compatible with each other. Using herbs to treat bronchitis is known to yield lasting results.