Bacterial chest infections may affects people of all ages; however, the elderly, young children and smokers are most susceptible to chest infections. The most common bacterial chest infections include pneumonia and bronchitis, and while the severity of such cases may vary, these types of infections are traditionally treated through antibiotics. While alternative medicine may not be fully backed by the scientific community, certain herbs with antibacterial properties may be utilized to help relieve and treat bacteria chest infections. Prior to starting any self-medicating routine with herbs, discuss proper dosage and safety with your doctor.
Echinacea
Echinacea has been utilized for its medicinal properties for over 400 years by Native Americans to treat infections and general illnesses. This herb contains multiple active compounds, which include volatile oils, alkamides, glycoproteins, flavonoids and polysaccharides. The combinations of these chemicals give echinacea its medicinal qualities. While the effectiveness of this herb in chest infections is currently being investigated within the scientific community, the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine states echinacea has been shown as an effective way to treat and reduce the severity of respiratory infections. People who are allergic to plants within the daily family should not consume echinacea as you may experience an allergic reaction. Discuss taking echinacea with your doctor to ensure your safety.
Garlic
The use of garlic for medicinal purposes dates back to ancient Egyptian times, and since then garlic has been utilized to treat cardiovascular disease, cancer and the common cold. The primary active compound within garlic is alliin; however, this compound is converted to allicin when the garlic clove is crushed. Garlic contains a high concentration of antioxidants, which work with the body to reduce free radicals and repair damage done by these rogue cells. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that garlic strengthens the immune system. According to a study where 150 participants were given garlic supplements or a placebo pill for 12 weeks, the participants who were given the garlic supplements experienced fewer colds, and cold symptoms dissipated quicker than in the placebo group. Due to the antibacterial properties found within garlic, this herb may be an effective herbal remedy for bacterial chest infections. Ask your doctor if garlic would be beneficial for your condition.
Ginger
Ginger is the root of the Zingiber officinale plant, and it is native to the Indian, Asian and Arabic regions. This root has been used for medicinal purposes for over 2,000 years and it is made up of pungent phenol compounds and volatile oils. MedlinePlus states ginger may be used to treat bronchitis and bacterial respiratory tract infections. While ginger is commonly prescribed by alternative medicine practitioners, very little scientific data exists to support the use of this herb for chest infections; however, due to the anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties found within ginger, its ability to relieve bacterial chest infections is promising. Check with your doctor before taking ginger.
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus is native to the Mediterranean regions, and the leaves and oil from the eucalyptus plant contain antifungal and strong antibacterial properties, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The primary active chemicals in eucalyptus include tannins, volatile oils and cineole. These chemicals provide this plant with its antibacterial, antiseptic and anti-inflammation properties. Due to the strong odor emitted from this herb, it has been utilized as a reviving smelling salt. To help treat a bacterial chest infection, eucalyptus oil may be inhaled by adding five to 10 drops of the essential oil into 2 cups of boiling water. Users then place their head over the scented steam and breathe deeply. Eucalyptus may also be taken orally in the form of a tea made out of fresh leaves. Check with your doctor before taking eucalyptus to address a bacterial chest infection.
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