Herbal Treatment for Bronchitis

Bronchitis is an inflammation in the bronchial tubes. It is usually caused by viruses, breathing in irritating chemicals, smoking or bacteria. There are two types of bronchitis, acute and chronic. Acute bronchitis is usually caused by a sore throat or cold and only lasts a few days, whereas chronic bronchitis happens when a person has too much phlegm. There is no cure for bronchitis, but there are herbal treatments for it.

Ginseng

• Ginseng can help reduce inflammation caused by bronchitis and clear bronchial passages. It can be used as a tincture, drank as a tea or taken in capsule form.

Elderberry

• Elderberry is good for reducing a fever and nasal congestion. It can also treat asthma, the flu and sinusitis. The berries are rich in vitamin C, but the stems should be avoided because they can cause diarrhea.

Eucalyptus

• Eucalyptus oil can be inhaled to relieve nasal congestion. It can be taken as an inhalant in oil form, drank as a tea or taken in capsule form.

Fenugreek

• Fenugreek is good for reducing the flow of mucous, which, if built up, can worsen bronchitis. It can be drank as a tea. If you are on thyroid medication, do not use fenugreek because it can alter the medication's effectiveness.

Goldenseal

• Goldenseal can be used to reduce inflammation in the nasal passages, the throat and the sinuses. Goldenseal has antibiotic properties. It can be used in powder form, tincture form, drank as a tea or used as an ointment. This herb can lower blood sugar, so diabetics should use it with caution.