bronchitis treatment

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bronchitis

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Bronchitis

Is the inflammation of the trachea (windpipe) and bronchi (airways) within the lungs due to an infection, bacteria or other cause. The mucous lining within the airways become irritated and swollen. The mucous cells leak extra mucous in response to the inflammation. This series of event causes coughing which is a reflex that works to clear the extra secretion from the lungs. Anyone can have it but smokers, individuals with a weakened immune system, individuals exposed to constant lung irritants and the elderly can be more susceptible to it. There are two types of bronchitis acute and chronic.

Acute: An infection that usually last several days or weeks and is caused by a secondary infection of the bronchi by viruses or bacteria e.g. cold or influenza.

Chronic: is a prolonged and persistent irritation of the mucous lining this produces a cough that can last at least three months.

Symptoms
Coughing extra mucus.
Dry cough.
Wheezing-short of breath.
Lack of energy.
May have a fever.
May cough out blood.

Common Causes

Viral infections.
Bacterial infection (mycoplasma pneumoniae).
Industrial pollution.
Atmospheric pollution.
Smoking
Dust

Prevention

Stop smoking.
Avoid exposure to irritants.
If you catch a cold, get plenty of rest.
Drink water.
Eat a healthy diet.
Wash your hands.

Herbal Relief

EXTERNAL REMEDIES

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)
Take 5 cups of infusion a day.

Balm of Gilead, thyme (Thymus vulgaris)
Infuse equal amount of thyme, balm of Gilead buds and licorice powder. Take ½ cup 6 times a day. Reduce the dosage as the cough eases.

Caution: Do not take licorice if pregnant. If no improvement occurs after a week talk to a professional.

For a chesty coughs and Bronchitis

Elecampane (Inula helenium), eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus)
Make a decoction of elecampane; take 2-3 cups a day.

Note: For acute bronchitis and coughs, add 5 g of eucalyptus leaf to the decoction. Do not take elecampane during pregnancy. Do not take licorice if anemic, suffering from high blood pressure, or pregnant.

Echinacea (Echinacea spp.), garlic (Allium sativum)
Take ½ tsp of echinacea tincture with water 2-3 times a day, or take tablets. In addition, eat 2 garlic cloves daily.

Mix 5 drops each of eucalyptus and thyme essential oils with 2 tsp of olive or sunflower. Massage the chest and back, twice a day. You can also burn 5-10 drops of one of the oils in a burner for 30 minutes.

Caution: Do not apply thyme oil during pregnancy.

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