(editor's note: Bronchitis is the name given to a wide range of ailments in which the mucous membranes covering the bronchial tube become inflamed.
It can be caused by a bacteria, virus or as a response to airborne irritants.
Bronchitis can occur quite suddenly or it can become a lengthy chronic condition.
I've collected some remedies that help reduce the cough and lung pain.
In addition your body will need plenty of rest and extra hydration, but avoid dairy products as they prompt your body to produce even more mucus.
Be well! All my Love, Boo)
Radish juice
Cut black radish into thin slices, mix with 2-3 Tbsp of honey and allow to stand for about 4 hours. This will produce a juice. Take 1 Tbsp 4-5 times daily. The mustard glycosides in the radish will kill germs.
Mustard plaster
Combine 1/3 lb. of freshly ground mustard with warm water to form a paste. Place a thin wool cloth on the chest, brush the paste onto the cloth and wrap in a towel. Remove in 10-15 minutes. The paste promotes circulation in the chest and reduces throat irritation and the urge to cough. Caution: this remedy may cause skin irritation.
Horseradish necklace
Cut horseradish into pieces, thread it onto a string and wear as a necklace overnight. While sleeping, you will breathe in the strong essential oils of the horseradish, which includes mustard oil.
Onion syrup
Cook 1 lb. of chopped onion with 2 cups of honey until it forms a thick syrup. Take up to 1 Tbsp every hour.
Cough-remedy tea
Pour 1 cup boiling water over 2 tsp. of the following herb mixture and steep for 15 minutes:
2/3 oz. marshmallow root
2/3 oz. coltsfoot leaves
1/2 oz. linden flowers
1/3 oz. licorice
1/2 oz. Iceland moss
2/3 oz. fennel seed
Drink 3-4 cups daily; sweeten with honey if desired. This herbal tea dissolves mucus and relieves the urge to cough.
For inhalation
Combine equal parts of fir, pine, sage and peppermint essential oils. Add three to five drops of the blend to a glass or stainless steel bowl of hot water. Lean over the bowl with a towel over your head, making a sort of tent, and inhale. Don't breathe too deeply at first; the scent is stronger than you may imagine. When you are finished, place the bowl near your bed to allow the vapors to continue helping you through the night.
What home remedies have you used to treat bronchitis?
I'd love to hear from you!
All my Love, Boo
