{"id":12877,"date":"2024-07-11T09:01:44","date_gmt":"2024-07-11T08:01:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/?post_type=condition&#038;p=12877"},"modified":"2025-01-14T12:15:39","modified_gmt":"2025-01-14T12:15:39","slug":"bronchitis","status":"publish","type":"condition","link":"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/condition\/bronchitis\/","title":{"rendered":"Bronchitis"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><em>Bronchitis is a lower respiratory tract infection. Find out more about the causes, symptoms and herbal treatments of bronchitis.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-ugb-accordion ugb-accordion ugb-a34e5f0 ugb-accordion--v2 ugb-accordion--design-plain ugb-accordion--open ugb-main-block\" aria-expanded=\"true\"><style>.ugb-a34e5f0 .ugb-accordion__title{font-size:26px !important}<\/style><div class=\"ugb-inner-block\"><div class=\"ugb-block-content\"><div class=\"ugb-accordion__item\"><div class=\"ugb-accordion__heading\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\"><h2 class=\"ugb-accordion__title\">Understanding bronchitis<\/h2><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 20 20\" class=\"ugb-accordion__arrow\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\"><path d=\"M16.7 3.3L10 10 3.3 3.4 0 6.7l10 10v-.1l10-9.9z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/div><div class=\"ugb-accordion__content\" role=\"region\"><div class=\"ugb-accordion__content-inner\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized\"><img width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" src=\"https:\/\/i.herbalreality.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/11085336\/Bronchitis.jpg\" alt=\"Bronchitis\" class=\"wp-image-12880\" style=\"width:337px;height:auto\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Bronchitis is a lower respiratory tract infection, characterised by inflammation of the airways.&nbsp; It tends to cause a cough, and can be acute (short-lived), or chronic (ongoing or recurring).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Bronchitis is one of the most common causes of cough (alongside the common cold) and is thought to rank among the top 10 outpatient conditions in the United States, affecting around 5% of adults there annually (1), with rates peaking during the winter season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the UK similar figures for bronchitis are reported, with incidences of 54 in 1000 people, which becomes higher in people over 85 years of age, who seem to be more vulnerable to respiratory tract conditions (1).<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-ugb-accordion ugb-accordion ugb-c4af6f8 ugb-accordion--v2 ugb-accordion--design-plain ugb-accordion--open ugb-main-block\" aria-expanded=\"true\"><style>.ugb-c4af6f8 .ugb-accordion__title{font-size:26px !important}<\/style><div class=\"ugb-inner-block\"><div class=\"ugb-block-content\"><div class=\"ugb-accordion__item\"><div class=\"ugb-accordion__heading\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\"><h2 class=\"ugb-accordion__title\">How does bronchitis work?<\/h2><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 20 20\" class=\"ugb-accordion__arrow\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\"><path d=\"M16.7 3.3L10 10 3.3 3.4 0 6.7l10 10v-.1l10-9.9z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/div><div class=\"ugb-accordion__content\" role=\"region\"><div class=\"ugb-accordion__content-inner\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized\"><img width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" src=\"https:\/\/i.herbalreality.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/11085507\/Woman-struggling-breathing.jpg\" alt=\"Woman struggling breathing\" class=\"wp-image-12881\" style=\"width:460px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i.herbalreality.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/11085507\/Woman-struggling-breathing.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/i.herbalreality.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/11085507\/Woman-struggling-breathing-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/i.herbalreality.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/11085507\/Woman-struggling-breathing-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Bronchitis is characterised by inflammation of the bronchi lining, bronchi being the large- and medium- sized air passages leading from the trachea (windpipe) to the lungs.&nbsp; The inflammation in the bronchi leads to thickening of mucous, which is naturally present on mucosal epithelial lining of the bronchi (epithelium can be thought of as skin on the inside of the body).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A protective mechanism called the mucociliary escalator usually keeps the respiratory system clear of foreign particles and pathogens.&nbsp; The mucociliary escalator comprises of cilia, which are fine hair-like structures lining the respiratory mucosa, and the natural mucosal layer which usually coats this.&nbsp; A rhythmical movement of the cilia, combined with the presence of mucous allow foreign particles and pathogens to be carried up and out of the respiratory system (or \u2018expectorated\u2019).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The structure of the cilia and the quality of the mucous play an important role in the function of mucociliary clearance from the lungs, both of which are altered during bronchitis due to the presence of inflammation, making the mucociliary escalator less efficient. The other respiratory clearance mechanism of coughing becomes more persistent. Inflammation in the bronchi results in a combination of changes which exacerbates the cough:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The presence of thicker mucous which is less effective in expectoration of particles and pathogens and can create a feeling of congestion in the airways.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Changes in the epithelial lining, called \u2018epithelial cell desquamation\u2019, a mechanism which helps to renew the mucous membrane, but in the process creates further debris to be cleared \/ expectorated.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Needless to say, bronchitis is accompanied by a cough, which may be productive or dry depending on the quality of the mucous and effectiveness of the cough reflex.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Bronchitis is usually classed as acute or chronic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:21px\">Acute bronchitis<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Acute bronchitis is very common and what is usually referred to when speaking of bronchitis, we will cover acute bronchitis in this article.\u00a0 Acute bronchitis will often resolve naturally without treatment, and most people recover within less than three weeks.\u00a0 It can be infectious, spreading through cough droplets, making it important to contain the cough with the hand or tissues, and to wash hands often.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:21px\">Chronic bronchitis<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Chronic bronchitis is less common and refers to cases of bronchitis which are ongoing for three months or more, or where recurrent long-lasting bronchitis occurs for two or more consecutive years.\u00a0 Chronic bronchitis is usually a result of a wider set of chronic respiratory conditions known collectively as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and tends to occur due to already compromised airways, rather than as a stand-alone condition (2, 3).<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-ugb-accordion ugb-accordion ugb-76c2642 ugb-accordion--v2 ugb-accordion--design-plain ugb-main-block\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><style>.ugb-76c2642 .ugb-accordion__title{font-size:26px !important}<\/style><div class=\"ugb-inner-block\"><div class=\"ugb-block-content\"><div class=\"ugb-accordion__item\"><div class=\"ugb-accordion__heading\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\"><h2 class=\"ugb-accordion__title\">Understanding the root<\/h2><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 20 20\" class=\"ugb-accordion__arrow\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\"><path d=\"M16.7 3.3L10 10 3.3 3.4 0 6.7l10 10v-.1l10-9.9z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/div><div class=\"ugb-accordion__content\" role=\"region\"><div class=\"ugb-accordion__content-inner\">\n<p>In most cases, acute bronchitis is of viral origin, and in around 10% or less cases it is bacterial (4).&nbsp; In some instances, viral upper respiratory infections can result in bronchial inflammation and progress to lower respiratory tract infections such as bronchitis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized\"><img width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" src=\"https:\/\/i.herbalreality.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/11085656\/Elderly-asian-woman-with-bronchitis.jpg\" alt=\"Elderly asian woman with bronchitis\" class=\"wp-image-12882\" style=\"width:549px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i.herbalreality.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/11085656\/Elderly-asian-woman-with-bronchitis.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/i.herbalreality.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/11085656\/Elderly-asian-woman-with-bronchitis-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/i.herbalreality.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/11085656\/Elderly-asian-woman-with-bronchitis-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Common viral causes include cold and flu viruses (adenovirus and rhinovirus), and COVID-19 viruses. Acute bronchitis is now recognised as part of the spectrum of illness that can occur with SARS-CoV-2 infection (5).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the rarer cases that acute bronchitis is of bacterial origin, the pathogens most commonly identified are <em>Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Chlamydia pneumoniae, <\/em>and<em> Bordetella pertussis<\/em> (1).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Risk factors for developing acute bronchitis include a history of smoking,&nbsp;living in polluted areas, crowded living conditions, and a prior history of asthma. Specific allergens such as pollen, perfume, and vapours can potentially trigger acute bronchitis in susceptible individuals (1)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A study of 164 patients with acute bronchitis who had been vaccinated against influenza, revealed that 37% of cases were of viral origin, and of these 21% were attributed to rhinovirus (the flu virus) (6).&nbsp; This indicates that vaccinations do not always grant immunity against viral infections which can lead to bronchitis and suggests that providing rounded immune support may be a helpful adjunct in preventing and treating cases of bronchitis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is also worth noting that only in the rarer cases of bacterial bronchitis may antibiotics help to improve the condition. When antibiotics are given in cases of viral bronchitis, it is unlikely that they will improve the condition.&nbsp; Antibiotics may be a helpful course of treatment in individuals who have other conditions compromising respiratory or immune function, where viral bronchitis may progress to a bacterial infection, and there is a risk of developing more serious complications such as pneumonia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Acute bronchitis in otherwise healthy patients is a major cause of antibiotic overuse (5). The overuse of antibiotics contributes to the antibiotic crisis currently seen due to this overuse whereby many strains of bacteria are becoming resistant to antibiotic treatment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Medical professionals recommend that most bronchitis patients require only symptomatic treatment (2, 5).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There is much scope with herbal medicines and lifestyle changes to provide overall immune support, reducing risk of developing bronchitis, and supporting the body in efficient recovery.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-ugb-accordion ugb-accordion ugb-268381e ugb-accordion--v2 ugb-accordion--design-plain ugb-main-block\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><style>.ugb-268381e .ugb-accordion__title{font-size:26px !important}<\/style><div class=\"ugb-inner-block\"><div class=\"ugb-block-content\"><div class=\"ugb-accordion__item\"><div class=\"ugb-accordion__heading\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\"><h2 class=\"ugb-accordion__title\">Signs and symptoms<\/h2><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 20 20\" class=\"ugb-accordion__arrow\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\"><path d=\"M16.7 3.3L10 10 3.3 3.4 0 6.7l10 10v-.1l10-9.9z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/div><div class=\"ugb-accordion__content\" role=\"region\"><div class=\"ugb-accordion__content-inner\">\n<p>The following symptoms can show in bronchitis (2, 7):<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Cough with mucous (which may be clear, white, yellow, or green in colour)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Chest pain when coughing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tiredness<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>High temperature<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Shortness of breath<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wheezing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Runny nose<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-d602c85fb288620216d1f31932808390\" style=\"color:#ed6e17\"><em><strong>Safety note:<\/strong> It is important to seek medical assistance immediately if you cough up blood, and if you have a cough that lasts more than three weeks it is recommended to see a doctor (2).<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-ugb-accordion ugb-accordion ugb-efbc6ce ugb-accordion--v2 ugb-accordion--design-plain ugb-main-block\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><style>.ugb-efbc6ce .ugb-accordion__title{font-size:26px !important}<\/style><div class=\"ugb-inner-block\"><div class=\"ugb-block-content\"><div class=\"ugb-accordion__item\"><div class=\"ugb-accordion__heading\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\"><h2 class=\"ugb-accordion__title\">Herbal solutions<\/h2><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 20 20\" class=\"ugb-accordion__arrow\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\"><path d=\"M16.7 3.3L10 10 3.3 3.4 0 6.7l10 10v-.1l10-9.9z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/div><div class=\"ugb-accordion__content\" role=\"region\"><div class=\"ugb-accordion__content-inner\">\n<p>In light of the antibiotic crisis, and lack of guaranteed immunity to viruses from vaccinations, a sensible course of action is to support the body in sustaining strong defence systems that will&nbsp; ward off infections before they develop into bronchitis and\/or ensure that they are short-lived should they arise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Herbal treatment would aim at supporting healthy immune function with immune system tonics and support such as andrographis and echinacea, adaptogens, and herbs with antiviral properties. In addition, there is plenty which can be offered from the herbal medicine chest to support the body through recovery from bronchitis, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Demulcent herbs to soothe and protect the mucous membranes. Respiratory demulcent herbs include marshmallow, plantain, liquorice, and mullein.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mucolytic herbs to break up thick mucus<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mucous membrane tonics and trophorestorative herbs to improve function of mucous membranes in the respiratory tract and support their structure. Examplesinclude elecampane and mullein.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Expectorants improve the clearing of mucous from the respiratory system either by changing the quality of the mucus or improving the cough reflex.\u00a0 Licorice and mullein are good examples of stimulating expectorants that are generally safe to use at home.\u00a0Aniseed and fennel are further examples of warming expectorants.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Anticatarrhal herbs, if mucous is copious<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Antitussive\/spasmolytic herbs can help to ease the cough reflex, especially helpful at night if coughing is interrupting sleep. Gentle yet still effective respiratory spasmolytics which are generally safe to use at home include hyssop, thyme, elecampane, and liquorice.\u00a0 These can be helpful when there is a respiratory spasm accompanied by a feeling of tightness, with a non-productive cough (perhaps where the mucous is too thick to be expectorated).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignright size-large is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/herb\/andrographis\/\"><img width=\"1600\" height=\"1037\" src=\"https:\/\/i.herbalreality.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/21123228\/Andrographis-paniculata-plant-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"Andrographis (Andrographis paniculata)\" class=\"wp-image-8871\" style=\"width:537px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i.herbalreality.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/21123228\/Andrographis-paniculata-plant-scaled.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/i.herbalreality.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/21123228\/Andrographis-paniculata-plant-scaled.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/i.herbalreality.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/21123228\/Andrographis-paniculata-plant-scaled.jpg 1300w, https:\/\/i.herbalreality.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/21123228\/Andrographis-paniculata-plant-768x498.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Andrographis (<em>Andrographis paniculata<\/em>)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:21px\">Andrographis (<em>Andrographis paniculata<\/em>)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/herb\/andrographis\/\">Andrographis<\/a><strong> <\/strong>is a<strong> <\/strong>helpful herb for treating and preventing<strong> <\/strong>both viral and bacterial infections, making it a potentially great support in bronchitis.\u00a0 It has a traditional use in both Indian and Chinese herbal medicine for coughs, colds, and flu, suggesting its application in respiratory tract infections (8).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A systematic review and meta-analysis looking at andrographis for symptomatic relief of acute respiratory tract infections concluded that the herb appeared beneficial and safe for relieving symptoms and shortening time to recovery (8), suggesting that it may be helpful as part of a herbal treatment approach to acute bronchitis, especially when it seems to follow a viral infection such as cold or flu.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:21px\">Echinacea (<em>Echinacea purpurea \/ E. angustifolia<\/em>)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/herb\/echinacea\/\">Echinacea<\/a> is a fantastic herb for infections, and at first signs of bronchitis can be taken in acute doses to provide immune support.\u00a0 It reduces inflammation, supports healthy immune function, and can help to mobilise immune defences against both viral and bacterial infections, making it helpful in cases of acute bronchitis.\u00a0 It will generally provide support for the body in reducing the severity of infection symptoms and their duration, improving recovery time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:21px\">Elderflower (<em>Sambucus nigra<\/em>)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/herb\/elder\/\">Elderflower<\/a><strong> <\/strong>is a herb usually associated with upper respiratory tract conditions such as sinusitis and allergies, due to its anticatarrhal and diaphoretic effects \u2014 meaning it helps to reduce catarrh, and aids the sweating out of a fever.\u00a0 In addition, it can be helpful for reducing allergic responses.\u00a0 Due to these properties, elderflower can be a helpful herb in cases of bronchitis accompanied by a fever, onset with cold or flu, when there are copious amounts of mucous.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:21px\">Elecampane (<em>Inula helenium<\/em>)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/herb\/elecampane\/\">Elecampane<\/a><strong><em> <\/em><\/strong>root is a wonderful lung tonic. It provides expectorant, spasmolytic, and antimicrobial properties, making it helpful in bringing up mucous. As a spasmolytic for the bronchioles it eases an excess cough reflex, and can prevent progression of bronchitis into another type of infection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Elecampane has a long history of traditional application for coughs which are \u2018old\u2019 or stubborn to shift, and specifically for bronchitis. It can help to move thick phlegm so will be beneficial in cases of bronchitis when the cough is non-productive, but the lungs feel congested (9).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:21px\">Hyssop (<em>Hyssopus officinalis<\/em>\u00a0L.)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/herb\/hyssop\/\">Hyssop<\/a> has a long history of use in Ayurveda and herbal medicine in the treatment of respiratory infections which come with congestion and cough, such as bronchitis.\u00a0 According to Ayurveda hyssop is considered a drying expectorant (10).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is helpful in cases of colds with cough, bronchitis (acute and chronic), and asthma (7).&nbsp; It is also helpful in alleviating fevers and so can be beneficial in cases where coughs are accompanied by a fever.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignleft size-full is-resized\"><img width=\"1000\" height=\"692\" src=\"https:\/\/i.herbalreality.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/11090010\/Hyssop-Hyssopus-officinalis-L.jpg\" alt=\"Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis L)\" class=\"wp-image-12883\" style=\"width:519px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i.herbalreality.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/11090010\/Hyssop-Hyssopus-officinalis-L.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/i.herbalreality.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/11090010\/Hyssop-Hyssopus-officinalis-L-600x415.jpg 600w, https:\/\/i.herbalreality.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/11090010\/Hyssop-Hyssopus-officinalis-L-768x531.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Hyssop (<em>Hyssopus officinalis L<\/em>)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:21px\">Liquorice (<em>Glycyrrhiza glabra<\/em>)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/herb\/licorice\/\">Liquorice<\/a><strong> <\/strong>is an efficacious herb for coughs in general, helping to soothe the respiratory system and with a long-standing traditional application for coughs, making it a great choice for treating bronchitis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Its actions that help alleviate coughs, include anti-tussive, respiratory demulcent, and expectorant.&nbsp; This combination of properties can bring an almost instant feeling of relief for coughs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The mucilaginous (\u2018slimy\u2019) quality of liquorice bestows its wonderful soothing respiratory demulcent properties, which can ease inflamed mucous membranes in the respiratory system whilst providing a protective effect, allowing cells to regenerate and repair.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It can be helpful in cases of both acute and chronic bronchitis. It is beneficial for both productive and dry types of coughs, so can be helpful throughout all stages of bronchitis from dry stuck cough to wet and productive cough. Its soothing and restorative effect on mucous membranes can ease dry, irritable coughs, and when there is thickened mucous such as in bronchitis. Liquorice helps to alter the consistency of the mucous, making it easier to bring up\/expectorate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Liquorice is especially helpful for soothing coughs when taken as an herbal infusion, or as a syrup which has an additional soothing effect.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:21px\">Marshmallow (<em>Althaea officinalis<\/em>)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/herb\/marshmallow\/\">Marshmallow<\/a><strong><em> <\/em><\/strong>root is particularly mucilaginous (giving a slimy texture), which soothes and protects inflamed or irritated tissues of mucous membranes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Both the root and the leaf are recommended for the symptomatic treatment of dry, irritable coughs (11).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A recent review of literature looked at the traditional use of marshmallow as a remedy for dry cough. The author found research studies that confirmed the efficacy of marshmallow as a good choice in treatment of dry cough and other respiratory ailments (12).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:21px\">Mullein (<em>Verbascum thapsus<\/em>)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/herb\/mullein\/\">Mullein<\/a> has an affinity for the respiratory system and can be of great benefit in coughs and respiratory infections such as bronchitis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The high mucilage content of mullein makes it an excellent respiratory demulcent, where it soothes and promotes repair of mucous membranes.&nbsp; The presence of saponins means it also acts as a stimulating expectorant, which promotes the mucociliary clearance in the respiratory system. This effect can be helpful in cases of bronchitis with thick or stubborn mucous that is difficult to cough up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Additionally, the antimicrobial properties of mullein make it helpful in cases of bronchitis which may be of bacterial origin, or to prevent more common viral bronchitis from developing into a bacterial infection.&nbsp; Mullein is considered helpful in cases of acute and chronic bronchitis (13).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/herb\/rose-geranium\/\"><img width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" src=\"https:\/\/i.herbalreality.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/26092020\/Rose-geranium-flower-and-leaves-Pelargonium-graveolens.jpg\" alt=\"Rose geranium flower and leaves (Pelargonium graveolens)\" class=\"wp-image-12571\" style=\"width:469px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i.herbalreality.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/26092020\/Rose-geranium-flower-and-leaves-Pelargonium-graveolens.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/i.herbalreality.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/26092020\/Rose-geranium-flower-and-leaves-Pelargonium-graveolens-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/i.herbalreality.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/26092020\/Rose-geranium-flower-and-leaves-Pelargonium-graveolens-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Rose geranium flower and leaves (<em>Pelargonium graveolens<\/em>)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>In Ayurveda, mullein is considered to be energetically cooling, which means it helps to dispel heat and congestion from the lungs, and clears accumulation of Kapha, which often manifests as cold damp conditions with an accumulation of phlegm and mucous such as can be the case in bronchitis (10).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:21px\">Pelargonium (<em>Pelargonium graveolens. Syn. Geranium graveolens \/ Pelargonium roseum<\/em>)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/herb\/rose-geranium\/\">Pelargonium<\/a><strong><em> <\/em><\/strong>has an expectorant action and is recommended in cases of acute bronchitis and common cold (13).\u00a0 It is recommended by the NHS as part of the guidelines on \u2018how you can treat a cough yourself\u2019 (9).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:21px\">Thyme (<em>Thymus vulgaris<\/em>)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/herb\/thyme\/\">Thyme<\/a> is a great support for coughs when taken as a simple herbal tea, where it can also blend well in tea or syrup with liquorice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It has expectorant and spasmolytic actions, which ease the cough reflex and can be of benefit in bronchitis when there is the feeling of a tight chest or spasms. The expectorant action is beneficial in helping to bring up stuck or thick mucous.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:21px\">Plantain (<em>Plantago major \/ Plantago lanceolata<\/em>)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/herb\/greater-plantain-ribwort\/\">Plantain<\/a> is a mucous membrane tonic, helping to heal and restore healthy function of mucosal tissue.\u00a0 Ribwort plantain has a particular affinity for the respiratory system and can assist in healing of the respiratory tract following acute infections.\u00a0 Its respiratory demulcent action strengthens the integrity of mucous membranes in the respiratory system, reducing inflammation, making it a helpful herb for treatment of and recovery from bronchitis.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-ugb-accordion ugb-accordion ugb-270dc24 ugb-accordion--v2 ugb-accordion--design-plain ugb-main-block\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><style>.ugb-270dc24 .ugb-accordion__title{font-size:26px !important}<\/style><div class=\"ugb-inner-block\"><div class=\"ugb-block-content\"><div class=\"ugb-accordion__item\"><div class=\"ugb-accordion__heading\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\"><h2 class=\"ugb-accordion__title\">Holistic solutions<\/h2><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 20 20\" class=\"ugb-accordion__arrow\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\"><path d=\"M16.7 3.3L10 10 3.3 3.4 0 6.7l10 10v-.1l10-9.9z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/div><div class=\"ugb-accordion__content\" role=\"region\"><div class=\"ugb-accordion__content-inner\">\n<p>The following lifestyle measures can be helpful for bronchitis (2,5):<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Staying hydrated<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Drinking warm tea and honey<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Getting plenty of rest and sleep<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-ugb-accordion ugb-accordion ugb-fd2d841 ugb-accordion--v2 ugb-accordion--design-plain ugb-main-block\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><style>.ugb-fd2d841 .ugb-accordion__title{font-size:26px !important}<\/style><div class=\"ugb-inner-block\"><div class=\"ugb-block-content\"><div class=\"ugb-accordion__item\"><div class=\"ugb-accordion__heading\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\"><h2 class=\"ugb-accordion__title\">References<\/h2><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 20 20\" class=\"ugb-accordion__arrow\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\"><path d=\"M16.7 3.3L10 10 3.3 3.4 0 6.7l10 10v-.1l10-9.9z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/div><div class=\"ugb-accordion__content\" role=\"region\"><div class=\"ugb-accordion__content-inner\">\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Singh A, Avula A, Zahn E. Acute Bronchitis. [Updated 2024 Mar 9]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK448067\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK448067\/<\/a>. Accessed June 10, 2024.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bronchitis. NHS. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/bronchitis\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/bronchitis\/<\/a>. Accessed June 10, 2024.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Acute Bronchitis. Merck Manual Consumer Version. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.merckmanuals.com\/home\/lung-and-airway-disorders\/acute-bronchitis\/acute-bronchitis\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.merckmanuals.com\/home\/lung-and-airway-disorders\/acute-bronchitis\/acute-bronchitis<\/a>. Accessed June 10, 2024.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sharma S, Hashmi MF, Alhajjaj MS. Cough. [Updated 2023 Feb 19]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK493221\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK493221\/<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Acute Bronchitis.&nbsp; MSD Manual Professional Version. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.msdmanuals.com\/professional\/pulmonary-disorders\/acute-bronchitis\/acute-bronchitis\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.msdmanuals.com\/professional\/pulmonary-disorders\/acute-bronchitis\/acute-bronchitis<\/a>. Accessed June 10, 2024.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Freymuth F, Vabret A, Gouarin S, Petitjean J, Charbonneau P, Lehoux P, Galateau-Salle F, Tremoli\u00e8res F, Carette MF, Mayaud C, Mosnier A, Burnouf L. [Epidemiology and diagnosis of respiratory syncitial virus in adults]. Rev Mal Respir. 2004 Feb;21(1):35-42.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bronchitis. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nhlbi.nih.gov\/health\/bronchitis\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.nhlbi.nih.gov\/health\/bronchitis<\/a>. Accessed June 10, 2024.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hu XY, Wu RH, Logue M, Blondel C, Lai LYW, Stuart B, Flower A, Fei YT, Moore M, Shepherd J, Liu JP, Lewith G. Andrographis paniculata (Chu\u0101n X\u012bn Li\u00e1n) for symptomatic relief of acute respiratory tract infections in adults and children: A systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One. 2017 Aug 4;12(8):e0181780. doi: 10.1371\/journal.pone.0181780. Erratum in: PLoS One. 2018 Nov 14;13(11):e0207713. doi: 10.1371\/journal.pone.0207713. PMID: 28783743; PMCID: PMC5544222.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bone, K, The Ultimate Herbal Compendium. Warwick, Queensland: Phytotherapy Press; 2007.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Frawley D, Lad V. <em>The Yoga of Herbs.<\/em> 2<sup>nd<\/sup> ed. Twin Lakes: Lotus Light Publications; 2008.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Commission E. Commission E Monographs. Germany: Bundesinstitut f\u00fcr Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte (BfArM); 1984-1994.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mahboubi M. Marsh Mallow (Althaea officinalis L.) and Its Potency in the Treatment of Cough. Echter Eibisch (Althaea officinalis L.) und seine Wirksamkeit in der Behandlung von Husten. Complement Med Res. 2020;27(3):174-183. doi:10.1159\/000503747.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cough. NHS. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/cough\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/cough\/<\/a>. Accessed 13 April 2023.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":12880,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":"","beyondwords_generate_audio":"1","beyondwords_integration_method":"","beyondwords_project_id":"47224","beyondwords_content_id":"06b5104f-0b61-4909-b08e-809eae8ef5f7","beyondwords_preview_token":"e6ed3c7e-5a85-4610-95d2-021286b8e1cd","beyondwords_player_content":"","beyondwords_player_style":"","beyondwords_language_code":"","beyondwords_language_id":"","beyondwords_title_voice_id":"","beyondwords_body_voice_id":"","beyondwords_summary_voice_id":"","beyondwords_error_message":"","beyondwords_disabled":"","beyondwords_delete_content":"","beyondwords_podcast_id":"","beyondwords_hash":"","publish_post_to_speechkit":"","speechkit_hash":"","speechkit_generate_audio":"","speechkit_project_id":"","speechkit_podcast_id":"","speechkit_error_message":"","speechkit_disabled":"","speechkit_access_key":"","speechkit_error":"","speechkit_info":"","speechkit_response":"","speechkit_retries":"","speechkit_status":"","speechkit_updated_at":"","_speechkit_link":"","_speechkit_text":""},"tags":[],"conditions":[695],"writer":[],"class_list":["post-12877","condition","type-condition","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","conditions-respiratory-system"],"acf":[],"featured_image_urls_v2":{"full":["https:\/\/i.herbalreality.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/11085336\/Bronchitis.jpg",1000,667,false],"thumbnail":["https:\/\/i.herbalreality.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/11085336\/Bronchitis-600x600.jpg",600,600,true],"medium":["https:\/\/i.herbalreality.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/11085336\/Bronchitis.jpg",1000,667,false],"large":["https:\/\/i.herbalreality.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/11085336\/Bronchitis.jpg",580,387,false],"banner_image":["https:\/\/i.herbalreality.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/11085336\/Bronchitis.jpg",1000,667,false],"gform-image-choice-sm":["https:\/\/i.herbalreality.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/11085336\/Bronchitis.jpg",300,200,false],"gform-image-choice-md":["https:\/\/i.herbalreality.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/11085336\/Bronchitis.jpg",400,267,false],"gform-image-choice-lg":["https:\/\/i.herbalreality.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/11085336\/Bronchitis.jpg",600,400,false]},"post_excerpt_stackable_v2":"<p>Bronchitis is a lower respiratory tract infection. Find out more about the causes, symptoms and herbal treatments of bronchitis. Understanding bronchitis Bronchitis is a lower respiratory tract infection, characterised by inflammation of the airways.&nbsp; It tends to cause a cough, and can be acute (short-lived), or chronic (ongoing or recurring). Bronchitis is one of the most common causes of cough (alongside the common cold) and is thought to rank among the top 10 outpatient conditions in the United States, affecting around 5% of adults there annually (1), with rates peaking during the winter season. In the UK similar figures for&hellip;<\/p>\n","category_list_v2":"","author_info_v2":{"name":"Jessika Thiele","url":"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/author\/jessikat\/"},"comments_num_v2":"0 comments","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/condition\/12877","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/condition"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/condition"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/condition\/12877\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/12880"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=12877"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=12877"},{"taxonomy":"conditions","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/conditions?post=12877"},{"taxonomy":"writer","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/writer?post=12877"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}