Home Remedies For Bronchitis
- Humidifier
There is some evidence to suggest that humidification may help patients fight the severe symptoms of bronchitis. A humidifier may reduce inflammation and help in the expulsion of mucus. Use a cool-mist humidifier or a vaporizer to keep the environment moist. However, there are certain risks to using a humidifier, so make sure you follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for use, cleaning, and maintenance.
- Essential Oils
Essential oils of myrtle, orange, eucalyptus, thyme, and nigella sativa have been studied and proven to be beneficial as a remedy for bronchitis. The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of these oils play important roles in relieving the symptoms of acute and chronic bronchitis. It is best to inhale essential oils. You can directly take a few deep inhales of your chosen essential oil straight from the bottle. Another alternative is to put a couple of drops of essential oil into a bowl of hot water and inhale the steam after covering your head with a towel. For the easiest way, put essential oils in a diffuser during bedtime.
- Warm Liquids
Research confirms that a warm drink can help combat most of the symptoms of cold and flu, like a runny nose, headache, sore throat, and more. Since bronchitis is often caused by the same virus that causes cold and flu and shares symptoms, drinking warm fluids may be one of the easiest home remedies for bronchitis.
- Honey
Honey has anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, which make it a great natural option for bronchitis treatment. It is often claimed to be effective in providing relief to patients with asthma. In a study conducted on children, oral consumption of honey was found to be the most effective at reducing cough and providing relief when taken before bedtime . Add honey to ginger or turmeric tea or simply have a spoonful for quick relief from the cough that accompanies bronchitis.
- Ginger
Research suggests that ginger may have an anti-inflammatory effect and reduce the severity of bronchitis symptoms. You can make a soothing cup of ginger tea by boiling ginger in water for five minutes. You can also chew on a piece of raw ginger dipped in honey. Alternatively, use ginger in your food, especially stir-fries or soups.
- Turmeric
Turmeric is a rich source of antioxidants, which can support your immune function. Additionally, it has anti-inflammatory properties. A study comparing the anti-inflammatory effects of turmeric, ginger and a commonly prescribed drug found that turmeric had more anti-inflammatory potential than the other two. These properties of turmeric may help alleviate the symptoms of bronchitis and help in faster recovery. To take turmeric as one of the natural home remedies for bronchitis, use grated fresh turmeric root to make a tea or add sliced turmeric to your salad. You can also use powdered turmeric in your fried egg, stir-fries, chicken stew, or bone broths.
- Garlic
Garlic for bronchitis is an effective option, especially if you have a case of viral infection related bronchitis. An animal study shows that garlic can significantly inhibit the growth of a coronavirus called infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) that causes bronchitis. While further studies are needed to prove the effect on humans, this throws light on garlic’s potential antimicrobial activity . It is best if you can have raw garlic. To temper the taste a little, you can dip a clove of peeled garlic in honey and chew on it. If that seems a little too unappetizing, you can add minced garlic to any stir-fries, pasta, noodles, soup, dips, or salads to get its benefits.
- Steam
Steam inhalation is a traditional home remedy for cold and flu. It can help break up mucus and clear the sinuses. A study found that the efficacy of steam inhalation with holy basil oil or leaves is more effective in providing relief from cough and congestion than steam alone . Add a handful to boiling water and let it steep for a minute off the heat. Then put a towel over your head and inhale the vapor. If you are using the oil, add a few drops to the bowl of water and inhale.