Bronchitis is a respiratory disease characterized by inflammation or obstruction of the bronchi, which are the tubes that carry air to the lungs. There are two types of bronchitis: acute, which is usually caused by a virus or bacteria and lasts several days to weeks; and chronic, which results from frequent irritation of the lungs and lasts for years.Some of the causes of bronchitis are viral and bacterial infections, smoking, and exposure to cigarette smoke and industrial pollutants.

This inflammation results in an accumulation of mucus, cough, fever, chest or back pain, sore throat, tiredness and difficulty breathing.

Plants that Treat Bronchitis

In addition to stopping smoking and avoiding environments with polluting gases, the individual who suffers from bronchitis can also receive treatment with mucolytic and fluidizing agents, corticoids and antibiotics.

However, there are some medicinal plants that can alleviate the symptoms of the disease. Here are some herbs that can treat bronchitis:

  • Eucalyptus ( Eucalyptus globulus ) – This medicinal plant has great capacity to act on the lungs and release phlegm. To do this, just inhale the steam of the eucalyptus essential oil, in addition to drinking the tea from the leaves of the plant;
  • Spring ( Primula veris ) – To enjoy the benefits of this natural expectorant, just prepare an infusion using a teaspoon of dried spring flowers. The infusion can help relieve cough and other symptoms of bronchitis;
  • Nettle ( Urtica dioica ) – In addition to being a potent natural remedy for asthma, nettle can also alleviate the symptoms of bronchitis. To prepare your tea, just put four grams of dried leaves in a cup of boiling water for a period of 10 minutes. Then, just strain and drink up to three times a day. If you prefer, you can add a little honey.
  • American ginseng ( Panax quinquefolius ) – American ginseng is a great medicinal plant to treat bronchitis, as it cleans the bronchi and reduces inflammation. However, this plant is contraindicated for individuals who have high blood pressure or any other heart problem;
  • Mullein ( Verbascum thapsus ) – Due to its expectorant properties, mullein helps to release phlegm and mucus that accumulate in the lungs, which may help in the treatment of bronchitis. For many years, this medicinal plant has been used to relieve symptoms of respiratory problems. Mullein can be found for sale in capsule form or in tincture.
  • In addition to the plants mentioned, there is a great natural remedy to treat bronchitis: it is a syrup made with a teaspoon of onion juice and a teaspoon of honey.