Aside from your skin, your lungs are the biggest organs in your body. Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes that can either be acute or chronic, according to MayoClinic.com. Over-the-counter cough suppressants can help relieve symptoms of this condition, but herbs such as licorice root can help, too. Always speak with a qualified physician before using herbs to self-treat any condition.
Symptoms
Symptoms of bronchitis may vary with each person. Common symptoms of both acute and chronic bronchitis include fatigue, fever or chills, moderate to severe cough, shortness of breath that may be worsened by physical activity, wheezing, chest discomfort and yellowish gray, clear or green-colored mucus.
Properties
The main ingredient found in licorice root is glycyrrhizin, which has antibacterial, antiviral, antioxidant, antirheumatic and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as expectorant properties; it's commonly used by Europeans in cough formulas. Licorice root works by soothing the mucous membranes of the lungs and throat and helps to loosen phlegm in the lungs and bronchial tubes so the body can expel it.
Efficacy
Licorice root has been used traditionally for the treatment of asthma and coughs. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, however, study results on this herb and its effectiveness are mixed; therefore it is strongly recommended that you speak with your physician before using licorice root for treating bronchitis or any other respiratory condition.
Dosage
Licorice root is available in the form of capsules, tinctures, tablets, liquid extract and dried leaves. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests taking licorice tincture in doses of 2 to 5 ml up to three times per day. The standardized extract may be taken in doses of 250 to 500 mg up to three times per day. Licorice root or licorice tea may be given to older children for sore throats. Children doses of licorice are 1/3 of the recommended amount for adults. This herb should not be given to toddlers or infants.
Warnings
Licorice root should not be taken longer than one week, as it may have potentially dangerous side effects, according to UUMC. The use of licorice should be avoided if you suffer from certain health conditions such as heart disease, heart failure, liver disease, diabetes or kidney disease.
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