Bronchitis is an inflammation, swelling or infection of the bronchial tubes between the nose and the lungs. Acute bronchitis is most often caused by a virus, frequently the same one that causes colds, although the flu virus is a common culprit as well. While acute bronchitis can also be caused by a bacteria or even a fungus, they’re only rarely to blame. People suffering from bronchitis often try over-the-counter medications to manage the symptoms. There are also many simple, natural home remedies that can provide relief.
HONEY
The antiviral as well as antibacterial properties of honey are considered useful to treat bronchitis. Honey helps soothe the throat. Moreover, it also builds strong immune system.
Remedy 1: Add half teaspoon of honey with a pinch of black pepper, fresh ginger paste, and 1-2 clove powder. Consume this paste to ward off burning sensation.
Remedy 2: To reduce throat inflammation and congestion, add a few drops of lemon in warm water. Add one teaspoon honey to it and drink it after stirring well.
Remedy 3: Slice an onion in a plate or bowl and cover it with honey. Leave it overnight. Now, remove onion slices and take one teaspoon of honey four times a day to get instant relief.
GINGER
Ginger, often used for treating the common cold, can also help with bronchitis. The anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties present in ginger help relieve irritated, inflamed or swollen bronchial tubes.
Remedy 1: You can make herbal tea by adding one teaspoon each of ginger powder and black pepper to a cup of boiling water. Let it steep for a few minutes, then add some honey. Drink it twice a day.
Remedy 2: You can also combine one teaspoon each of ginger powder, pepper, and cloves. Take it three times a day with honey or milk.
TURMERIC
To get relief in cough associated with bronchitis, turmeric is the best natural remedy. The anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric pull out the excess mucus, which ultimately provides relief.
How to use: Add one teaspoon of turmeric powder in a glass of milk. Stir it well and boil for some time. Drink the hot mixture twice or thrice a day. For effective results, try having this in an empty stomach.
SALT
Salt water it will soothe the inflammation in the throat, and will cut through some of the mucus causing irritation to the throat.
How to use: Gargling with salt water several times a day is a great way to treat various symptoms of bronchitis. Simply add one teaspoon of salt to a glass of warm water and gargle with it. Be sure to use the exact amount of salt, as too much salt can cause a burning sensation in the throat and too little will not be as effective. You can gargle with salt water as often as you need.
SESAME SEEDS
Sesame seeds have medicinal properties that can treat bronchitis and help relieve chest pain associated with it.
Remedy 1: Combine one teaspoon of sesame seeds, one teaspoon of linseed or flaxseed, a pinch of common salt and one teaspoon of honey. Take this mixture daily before going to bed.
Remedy 2: You can also mix one-half teaspoon of dry sesame seed powder and two tablespoons of water and take it twice daily.
EUCALYPTUS OIL
Eucalyptus oil is very effective treatment for bronchitis. The antibacterial properties of the oil heal burning sensation and inflamed throat.
Remedy 1: Use it in steam therapy to soften the mucus. Add a few drops of eucalyptus oil in boiling water. Then, cover your head with a towel and breathe in the steam. You can also use tea tree oil or pine oil, in place of eucalyptus oil.
Remedy 2: Alternatively, eucalyptus oil can be applied on the chest directly. This will aid proper functioning of respiratory system and also drive out the excess mucus.