Herbal Remedies For Chronic Bronchitis

Chronic bronchitis is the long-term inflammation or obstruction of the bronchial tubes. This condition causes an accumulation of mucus, coughing, fever, chest pain, fatigue, sore throat and difficulty breathing. The American Lung Association states that, as of 2009, approximately 9.9 million people in the United States were diagnosed with chronic bronchitis. Review treatment options for your condition with your doctor, who can explain the risks and benefits associated with each of these treatments, including herbal remedies.

Chronic Bronchitis

According to the Family Doctor website, the leading cause of chronic bronchitis is cigarette smoking. Tobacco that is inhaled into your lungs irritates your airways, causing increased mucus production. Long-term exposure to other irritants, such as chemical fumes and dust, may also cause this condition. Bronchitis is considered chronic if it lasts longer than three months. Chronic bronchitis may occur in conjunction with emphysema -- another obstructive lung condition that causes shortness of breath.

Useful Herbal Remedies

Many herbal remedies may help treat chronic bronchitis. Herbal remedies for chronic bronchitis, notes certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," include thyme, lungwort, lomatium, lobelia, lavender, Iceland moss, gumplant, goldenseal, ginkgo, fenugreek, eucalyptus leaves, echinacea, Siberian ginseng, cayenne, elecampane, elderberry and astragalus. Many of these herbs help clear the bronchial passages and reduce the inflammation of mucus membranes. Some of these herbs also help relieve coughing and congestion.

A Popular Herbal Remedy

Elecampane is a popular herbal remedy in the treatment of chronic bronchitis. Elecampane possesses anti-inflammatory action and is an expectorant, or an herb that helps clear your air passages of excessive mucus. Elecampane, notes the University of Michigan Health System, may be particularly effective in treating coughs associated with bronchitis, asthma and other lung-related conditions. Elecampane is a plant that grows in Britain, mainland Europe and Asia. The root of the elecampane plant is used in herbal preparations.

Disclaimer

Chronic bronchitis is a serious health problem that requires medical intervention. If your bronchitis does not improve over time, schedule a visit with your doctor for a chest x-ray to rule out other conditions, such as lung cancer, emphysema and tuberculosis. Herbal remedies for chronic bronchitis should be taken under the supervision of a qualified health care professional. Herbal remedies may contain active ingredients that cause negative health side effects if taken improperly.