Herbal Remedies To Heal Bronchitis

Is Bronchitis a Virus?

No, it’s not. It can occur from a viral or bacterial infection, but bronchitis itself is not a virus. Try these herbal treatment options to treat your bronchitis.

Effective Herbal Remedies to Heal Bronchitis

Rosemary–Licorice Root Vapor Treatment

Makes 1 portion of treatment

Rosemary and licorice root help open the airways, stimulate circulation, and ease the discomfort and inflammation that often accompany bronchitis.

• 5 cups water
• ¼ cup chopped dried licorice root
• ½ cup finely chopped fresh rosemary leaves

1. In a saucepan, combine the water and the dried licorice root. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Pour the water and licorice root into a shallow bowl and add the rosemary leaves.
3. Use a large towel to cover your head and the bowl. Breathe in the vapors that rise from the herbs. Emerge for fresh air as needed, and close your eyes if the vapors feel too strong. Continue the treatment until the water has cooled.
4. Repeat as needed. This treatment is gentle enough to use as often as you like.

Precautions: Do not use this treatment if you have epilepsy, high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney problems, or heart disease.

Goldenseal-Hyssop Syrup

Makes about 2 cups

Goldenseal contains two strong antiviral and antibacterial agents called hydrastine and berberine. Hyssop eases bronchial spasms and helps clear lung congestion while imparting a soothing, calming effect that will help you relax.

This syrup is also good for treating the common cold. It will keep for up to 6 months when refrigerated.

• ½ ounce dried goldenseal root, chopped
• 1 ounce dried hyssop
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup honey

1. In a saucepan, combine the goldenseal and hyssop with the water. Bring the liquid to a simmer over low heat, cover partially with a lid and reduce the liquid by half.
2. Transfer the contents of the saucepan to a glass measuring cup. Pour the mixture through a dampened piece of cheesecloth back into the saucepan, wringing the cheesecloth until no more liquid comes out.
3. Add the honey and warm the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly and stopping when the temperature reaches 105°F to 110°F.
4. Pour the syrup into a sterilized jar or bottle and store it in the refrigerator.
5. Take 1 tablespoon orally three to five times per day until your symptoms subside.

Precautions: Do not use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Do not use if you have epilepsy or high blood pressure. Goldenseal can aggravate diarrhea and heartburn. Children under the age of 12 should take 1 teaspoon two to three times per day.