Bronchitis occurs when the bronchial tubes in the lungs become inflamed. Two different types of bronchitis exist--acute and chronic. Acute bronchitis results from a viral infection and typically clears on its own within seven to 10 days. Chronic bronchitis, however, occurs as a result of environmental factors such as cigarette smoke or pollution. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, more than 40 percent of smokers develop bronchitis during their lifetimes. Regardless of the cause, herbal remedies may help relieve bronchitis symptoms and expedite healing. Individuals with chronic bronchitis may have to make lifestyle changes in addition to using herbs to treat the condition.
Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus essential oil, an herbal expectorant, may help treat bronchitis symptoms. Germany's Commission E, the country's equivalent to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, endorses the inhalation of eucalyptus oil vapors for treating bronchitis and coughs. A study published in Zhongguo Zhongyao Zazhi, a Chinese medical journal, in 2004 found that eucalyptus oil had an anti-inflammatory effect on chronic bronchitis in rats. To use eucalyptus oil for treating bronchitis at home, bring 2 quarts of water to a boil, add 15 to 20 drops of pure eucalyptus oil, then inhale the steam for at least 15 minutes. Repeat several times per day as needed.
Mullein
Mullein has expectorant properties and may help relieve the symptoms of bronchitis. Traditionally, healers have used mullein to treat all kinds of respiratory ailments for thousands of years. Though lacking scientific research for the specific treatment of bronchitis, many herbalists still prescribe the herb for this condition. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends taking up to 3 g per day to relieve symptoms. For the best results, make an herbal tea by steeping 1 to 2 tsp. dried mullein leaves in 1 cup boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes, straining and drinking immediately. Consume up to to 3 cups per day. If you don't have access to dried leaves, take 1,000 mg of mullein in capsule form three times per day.
Marshmallow
In his book "Weiss's Herbal Medicine," German herbalist Rudolf Fritz Weiss recommends taking marshmallow root to help relieve bronchitis symptoms. According to Weiss, the root contains up to 35 percent mucilage, which soothes sore and irritated mucous membranes. To use marshmallow at home, make a tea from the roots, using cold water to avoid dissolving the beneficial mucilage. Steep 1 to 3 tbsp. dried or fresh marshmallow root in 1 cup cold water overnight, or at least eight hours. Strain and drink up to three cups per day as needed. Cough syrups containing marshmallow may also benefit bronchitis sufferers.
Licorice
Licorice, a common herbal remedy for respiratory problems, may also help treat bronchitis. The herb has anti-inflammatory, antiviral and expectorant properties, and it stimulates the cells to produce their own antiviral compounds. In her book "The Herbal Drug Store," Linda B. White recommends taking six 400 to 500 mg capsules per day, 20 to 30 drops of licorice tincture three times per day, or 3 to 4 cups licorice tea per day while suffering from bronchitis. To make licorice tea, simmer 1/4 cup licorice root in 2 cups water for 10 to 15 minutes, then strain and drink. Do not take licorice for longer than six weeks. Pregnant or nursing women and individuals with high blood pressure, liver disease or heart disease should not take licorice.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Bronchitis
- PubMed.gov: Effect of Eucalyptus Globulus Oil on Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Chronic Bronchitis and Mucin Hypersecretion in Rats
- "The Green Pharmacy: New Discoveries in Herbal Remedies for Common Diseases"; James A. Duke; 1997
- "Weiss's Herbal Medicine"; Rudolf Fritz Weiss; 2001
- "The Herbal Drug Store"; Linda B. White, Steven Foster; 2000
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