BusyBodyHealth

functional, holistic remedies for modern folks

coughing
It's that time of the season again where often colds turn into more severe bronchial conditions. The lining of the bronchial tubes (the pathway that carries air to and from the lungs) are inflammed, and sometimes the throat and sinus also sensitive and irritated as well, giving symptoms of persistent coughs, mucus, fatigue, shortness of

breath, fever, chills, and chest discomfort. Other types of upper respiratory infections could also develop into acute or chronic conditions. The symptoms for acute and chronic bronchitis are largely the same. Chronic bronchitis is typically more pervasive. Most common forms of bronchitis can be treated effectively at home, especially at the early stages of the disease. 


Plenty of rest and drinking fluids are a must. Here are some ideas that are helpful for shortening the duration and severity the symptoms.

1. Probiotics - University of Maryland Medical Center researchers have found that 'good' bacteria in your gut helps prevent infections by supporting a strong immune system. Probiotics are found in naturally fermented foods such as milk and water kefirs, sauerkraut, kimchi, Greek yogurt, and in capsule form. The most powerful live cultures are found in homemade types of kefirs where as commercial brands are much less active. Take the non-dairy type of water kefir instead of milk kefir to reduce mucus production. 

2. Echinacea - The Medical Center also suggests using Echinacea to help prevent and treat respiratory issues. Echinacea helps support the immune systems and fights infection to treat bronchitis and help prevent further development of the condition.  You should take 300 mg, 3 times a day for the best health benefit. 

3. Garlic - Carrie Cross, a health specialist via LiveStrong, suggests garlic as a viable option. Garlic contains allicin which helps reduce inflammation and fight infection. Garlic also contains vitamins A, B, and C as well as copper, iron, calcium, and selenium. Take 4 grams of minced garlic by mouth a day. 

4. Ginseng - Medical research also supports Ginseng as a home remedy. It boosts immune systems, reduces inflammation and fights infections to help ward off more pervasive bronchial symptoms. Take 400 mg by mouth each day for best results.

5. Ginger Root - This herb helps reduce mucus in the throat as well as relieves inflammation. It also fights infections to eradicate the underlying cause of bronchitis. Put several slices of ginger root in 1-2 cups of water and boil for 10 min.  Let it cool down and add some raw honey. Drink as much as necessary throughout the day. You can even take a ginger bath by adding one quart of the ginger tea to a warm bath. This treatment helps draw toxins out of our body. 

Also effective is raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar drink, 3-4x / day -
2 Tbsp raw ACV
1 Tbsp Manuka honey (or raw honey)
Warm water to 1 cup

Other remedies: cough remedies here, food grade hydrogen peroxide here, and other cough remedies here.

Source:
http://www.earthclinic.com/cures/chronic-bronchitis-treatment.html