According to the Mayo Clinic, bronchitis is an acute inflammation of lining of your bronchial tubes that may be acute or chronic. Acute bronchitis generally starts as a cold while chronic bronchitis manifests because of constant exposure to irritants such as cigarette smoke. Acute bronchitis generally passes on its own in a few days, whereas chronic bronchitis may recur and requires medical attention. Treatment of bronchitis includes alleviation of the symptoms, such as breaking up mucous and phlegm and making your breathing easier. You should always consult your doctor before using any herbal supplement.
South African Geranium
Umckaloabo or more commonly, Pelargonium sidoides, is an extract obtained from the South African geranium. It has shown to be effective in the treatment of bronchitis and alleviating the symptoms of acute bronchitis, although according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, scientific evidence is preliminary. It is used in South Africa as a natural antibiotic and may reduce the severity and duration of bronchitis. The recommended dosage for adults is 30 drops of the umckaloabo extract three times daily for up to two weeks. You should consult a doctor before giving this supplement to children.
Eucalyptus Oil
The essential oil obtained from the eucalyptus plant is a common ingredient in many over-the-counter cold and flu remedies. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, eucalyptus oil acts as an expectorant and antiseptic. It can help to break up mucous, phlegm and congestion and also help to prevent infection. You can also make an herbal tea using fresh eucalyptus leaves to ease coughs and help alleviate the discomfort of bronchitis. Break one eucalyptus leaf into small pieces and put it in a cup of boiling water for five minutes. Strain and drink while it's still hot. You can drink up to two cups of this soothing tea per day.
Peppermint
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, menthol, the main ingredient in peppermint, is an excellent decongestant and expectorant that can help to break up mucous. Drinking peppermint tea can help to soothe sore or inflamed throats. You can use a few drops of peppermint oil in a vaporizer or use a few drops in a warm bath to benefit from its healing properties. You can also make a soothing tea using dried peppermint leaves, usually available in most health food stores. Use one teaspoon of dried peppermint per cup of boiling water and allow to steep for 10 minutes. Strain and enjoy either hot or cold. Drink four to five cups per day.
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