Guide to natural cures for bronchitis

Bronchitis:
Bronchitis is a respiratory condition that is characterized by inflammation of the bronchial airways. There are two types of bronchitis—acute and chronic. Acute bronchitis is characterized by deep, dry, or wet cough that tends to resolve within one to two weeks. Chronic bronchitis typically occurs without exposure to infectious agents, and can often develop as a progression of acute bronchitis.

Natural Cures:

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra): This root is a one-stop herb shop for bronchitis. It soothes mucous membranes and is expectorant, anti-inflammatory, and directly antiviral. It also stimulates cells to produce interferon, the body’s own antiviral compound.

Mullein (Verbascum thapsus): If your cough is wet, mullein helps you expel mucus; if your cough is dry, it helps ease that rasping pain.

Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis): An excellent mucous-membrane soother, marshmallow is a good choice for the dry coughs. It also has a mild stimulating effect on the immune system.

English Plantain (Plantago lanceolata): This herb has a strong reputation as a gentle cough suppressant, demulcent and antibacterial agent. The German Commission E, that country’s counterpart to the American Food and Drug Administration, endorses it as safe and effective for bronchial conditions.

Garlic (allium sativum): This expectorant fights many bacteria and some of the viruses that cause flus and colds. Its aromatic oils excreted through the lungs (which is why eating the bulb produces garlic breath). In the process, those oils act directly to kill microorganisms and to help you cough up mucus.