Natural Treatments for Bronchitis

Bronchitis is an inflammation of the lungs and often follows an upper respiratory infection. It can also be a chronic condition that is intensified by air pollution, smoking, or colds. Symptoms include fever, coughing that produces yellow mucus, and sometimes chest pains and difficulty breathing.

1. Infection Fighters
   Herbal antibiotics such as echinacea, goldenseal, and garlic fight infection and boost your immune response. Take half a teaspoon of echinacea extract and a quarter of a teaspoon of goldenseal extract three times a day for up to 10 days. In addition, eat a clove of raw garlic twice daily until the infection has cleared. CAUTION: Do not take goldenseal if you have high blood pressure or are pregnant. 

2. Soothing Mullein Tea
   Mullein leaves are rich in mucilage, a gelatinous substance that soothes irritated mucous membranes and bronchial passages. Marshmallow root also contains mucilage and has a slightly sweet taste, which tempers the flavor of the slightly bitter and astringent mullein.

   1 cup (250 ml) boiling water
   1 teaspoon dried mullein Leaf
   1 teaspoon dried marshmallow root

   Pour the water over the herbs, cover, and steep for 15 minutes. Strain, sweeten if desired, and drink three to four cups daily.

3. Loosen congestion in the chest
   Eucalyptus loosens the chest congestion and fights respiratory infections.

   1 1/2 quarts (2 liters) boiling water
   3 drops of eucalyptus essential oil

   Carefully pour boiling water into a heatproof bowl. Add eucalyptus essential oil, and cover your head and bowl with a large towel. Inhale the steam for 15 minutes, taking care to not burn yourself. Repeat as often as desired. Option : use this blend is a small spray bottle at your local health club steam room.