Numerous herbs may be helpful for your bronchitis or pneumonia, both lung-related conditions that require the attention of a qualified health care professional. According to the Merck Manuals website, common signs and symptoms associated with lung conditions, such as bronchitis and pneumonia, include cough, shortness of breath and wheezing. Before taking herbs to help treat your bronchitis or pneumonia, talk with your doctor about the possible side effects and proper dosage.
Pleurisy Root
Pleurisy root is an herb that may be helpful for treating bronchitis or pneumonia. According to the University of Michigan Health System, pleurisy root, also known as Asclepias tuberosa, is an orange-flowered herb that is native to the southwestern and midwestern United States. Pleurisy root has been used by Native Americans as a remedy for pulmonary infections and wound healing. Dr. Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician and author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," states that pleurisy root is an antispasmodic, diaphoretic and expectorant. Pleurisy root is a peripheral vasodilator that increases your lung volume. Tilgner notes that pleurisy root is specific for pneumonia, bronchitis, pleurisy and influenza. Pleurisy root has a slightly acrid and sweet taste. Before taking pleurisy root to help treat your pneumonia or bronchitis, talk with your doctor about possible side effects and proper dosage.
Wild Cherry
Wild cherry is an herb that may help treat symptoms associated with bronchitis and pneumonia. The website Botanical states that wild cherry, also known as Prunus serotina, is a member of the rose family. Wild cherry is a tree that grows in the northern and central parts of the United States. The tree grows to a maximum height of 80 feet. The bark is used medicinally to treat numerous health problems, including lung-related problems such as bronchitis and pneumonia. Wild cherry has a sweet, bitter, astringent and almost almond-like taste. According to Tilgner, wild cherry is a stimulating astringent and expectorant that quiets your nervous irritability. Wild cherry is useful for mucus membrane irritation and is indicated for chronic bronchitis and coughs of a general nature. Before taking wild cherry to help treat your bronchitis or pneumonia, talk with your doctor about possible side effects and proper dosage.
Bloodroot
Bloodroot is an herb that may be effective for bronchitis and pneumonia. According to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, bloodroot, also known as Sanguinaria canadensis, is a perennial flowering plant native to eastern North America. Blood root has been used to treat numerous health problems, including inflammation, cough, infections and cancer. The root of the plant is used medicinally. Bloodroot has a harsh, bitter and acrid taste. Ed Smith, an herbalist and author of the book "Therapeutic Herb Manual," states that bloodroot is an antispasmodic, expectorant, diaphoretic, diuretic and mucus membrane secretion stimulant. Bloodroot is most commonly used for subacute or chronic respiratory illnesses such as bronchitis, laryngitis and pneumonia. Before taking bloodroot to help treat your bronchitis and pneumonia, talk with your doctor about possible side effects and proper dosage.
