Symptoms of chest congestion include heavy coughing accompanied by thick mucus and difficulty breathing. Chest congestion typically occurs as a result of the flu or the common cold. Although most cases of chest congestion are not cause for major concern, you should consult your doctor as it can be an indication of a serious health problem such as asthma or bronchitis. Inform your doctor if you decide to take an herbal supplement.
Echinacea
Echinacea is a popular herb that has been used for thousands of years for its medicinal benefits. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, Native American medicine has relied on echinacea to prevent infection and treat wounds. Although study results have been mixed as to its effectiveness, echinacea may help to decrease the symptoms of the common cold, such as runny nose, sneezing and congestion. Some herbalists prescribe it to reduce the severity of the cold and increase the action of the immune system. You can take echinacea in capsule, tea or powdered extract form.
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus leaves are used to produce the essential oil commonly found in many over-the-counter cold and flu remedies. According to Medline Plus, eucalyptus oil has expectorant and decongestant properties, which may help to alleviate congestion and other symptoms of upper respiratory conditions. Herbalists and aromatherapists generally use eucalyptus oil in inhalations or chest rubs to clear congestion and facilitate breathing. If you have a humidifier or vaporizer, you can add a few drops to the reservoir so the aroma is released into the air with the steam. You can also mix five drops of eucalyptus oil with one tbsp. of olive oil and use this as a homemade chest rub to alleviate congestion and cold symptoms.
Goldenseal
Goldenseal is an herb that has been used in traditional herbal and Native American remedies for its variety of health uses. According to the National Institutes of Health National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, goldenseal is commonly used to fight colds and respiratory infections, although not enough research has been done to validate its effectiveness. It may help to alleviate fever, reduce congestion and mucous, and fight infections due to its reported antimicrobial and expectorant properties. You can use goldenseal in capsule, extract or tablet form to help relieve symptoms of the common cold and flu.
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