Chronic bronchitis is defined by MayoClinic.com as reoccurring bouts of chest congestion that is the result of lung inflammation and infection. If you suspect that you have chronic bronchitis, make an appointment with your doctor for a proper diagnosis and recommended treatment options. While traditional medicine is available to treat symptoms, the University of Maryland's Medical Center makes some herbal treatment recommendations for the condition. Herbal medicines have not been evaluated by the FDA and need to be used only under a doctor's supervision.
Chronic Bronchitis
Chronic bronchitis is inflammation in the lungs that comes and goes over an extended period of time. The condition is one form of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, according to MedlinePlus. Bronchitis is considered chronic if you cough for more than three months a year for two or more years, according to MayoClinic.com. The main cause of chronic bronchitis is cigarette smoking, chronic allergies, infections and harmful chemical fumes.
Symptoms
Chronic Bronchitis causes the airways to become inflamed and swollen. Over time, continual inflammation can cause the lungs to permanently thicken, causing difficulty breathing. Other symptoms of this condition include coughing, wheezing, fatigue, chest discomfort, shortness of breath, slight fever and the production of discolored mucus in the lungs, according to MayoClinic.com. If you develop a high fever or cough-up blood, contact your doctor immediately.
Lobelia Consideration
Lobelia is an herb with a long history of being used as a remedy for issues related to the respiratory system. The herb is also known as Indian tobacco and can be toxic if not used properly. You should only use this herb under a doctor's supervision. Its primary function to remedy chronic bronchitis is to clear mucus out of your lungs. It is an effective expectorant that thins mucus and causes it to drain out of the body, according to the UMMC.
Peppermint Use
Peppermint is commonly used to treat common cold and flu symptoms, such as chest and nasal congestion. Peppermint contains menthol, an effective decongestant that helps to thin mucus, loosen it and break it up, according to the UMMC. Peppermint is sold in raw form, supplement pills or in an herbal tea. Talk with your doctor for the proper dosing for you condition.
Essential Oils
Use a combination of extract from pine, eucalyptus and a citrus oil to help alleviate common symptoms associated with a respiratory condition, according to the UMMC. According to the UMMC, studies have shown that the use of this herbal remedy helped alleviate bronchitis symptoms and worked just as effectively as people who took a prescribed antibiotic.
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