Natural Remedies for Bronchitis |
AD

Natural Remedies for Bronchitis

mfrancis February 6, 2025

Have you ever experienced an annoying cough after a cold or other similar illness? You may have been dealing with bronchitis! Having a loved one with bronchitis can be incredibly stressful, especially when it is your child and you are coping with persistent coughing and overall discomfort. Whether it’s a child, your partner, or another loved one, seeing them struggle with this can leave you feeling helpless. But don’t worry- there are natural remedies and simple steps you can take to ease the symptoms and support your loved one’s recovery. 

What is Bronchitis? 

Bronchitis is inflammation of the lining of the bronchial tubes, the pathways that carry air to and from the lungs. This condition typically leads to a persistent cough that produces thick, discolored mucus. It can develop suddenly (acute bronchitis) or gradually (chronic bronchitis). Acute bronchitis often follows a respiratory infection, like a cold, and it tends to improve on its own within 7-10 days. Chronic bronchitis, however, is a long-term condition where coughing with mucus occurs most days a month for at least three months to a year – and even longer in some cases. 

Acute vs. Chronic Bronchitis: What is the Difference? 

Acute Bronchitis: this is most commonly caused by a viral infection. It typically resolves itself within a few weeks. Antibiotics are not usually necessary, as the body’s immune system can handle the infection. If following mainstream advice, over-the-counter medications and occasionally antibiotics will be recommended, but we will go over various natural remedies that can ease the symptoms. 

Chronic Bronchitis: If you or a loved one experience persistent coughing and mucous production for long periods, they may be experiencing chronic bronchitis. This can be linked with more serious issues like COPD.  

Symptoms of Bronchitis can Include:  

  • Persistent cough
  • Thickened mucus – can be yellow, white, or even green!
  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest discomfort
  • Mild fever
  • Feeling fatigued 

While these symptoms are frustrating, there are many natural ways to support the body as it recovers and heals. 

Natural Remedies to Ease Symptoms of Bronchitis

When dealing with this, it is important to remember that your body is trying to detox. Giving yourself the time and space to rest, hydrate, and use many natural remedies is crucial. Here are some you’ll want to try. 

  1. Drink herbal teas – Many herbs, including thyme, mullein, marshmallow root, and even chamomile, have been used to treat and ease respiratory issues for centuries. You can add honey if you like it sweet—it adds benefits, too! 
  2. Steam Inhalation – Inhaling steam can help open the airways and loosen mucus. You can do this by taking a hot shower or placing a hot bowl, water, or herbal tea in front of you and carefully covering your head and the bowl together under a towel. You could also add essential oils like eucalyptus or peppermint. Be sure to check the safety information of any specific essential oils you use. 
  3. Earthley’s Breathe Well Salve is formulated with essential oils that are safe for ages 6 months+ and strong enough for children and adults. You simply rub it on your chest or your feet. 
  4. Turmeric—Turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Adding turmeric to tea or even to your food can help reduce inflammation in the bronchial tubes. You could also use it to make a poultice paste with warm water and place it on your chest for a soothing effect. Just beware; it can stain. You can also take it in a capsule (preferably one that has black pepper to greatly increase effectiveness). 
  5. Garlic – Garlic is naturally antimicrobial and antibiotic and can help fight infections. Chop up your raw garlic (organic if possible) and let it sit for 10-15 minutes to activate it. Then eat it or swallow it like a pill! It provides additional support for the immune system. 
  6. Pineapple – Pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme that helps reduce inflammation, breaks down mucous, and soothes the throat. Fresh pineapple juice can ease bronchitis or any issue that causes a cough. 
  7. Honey and lemon – Honey is antibacterial (look for local and raw if possible), soothing for the throat, and can help alleviate coughing. Lemon provides vitamin C to boost immune function. These two together are absolutely delicious, dissolved in some warm water or herbal tea. 
  8. Nebulizer treatments – Nebulizers are easily accessible these days. You can purchase one online or get one prescribed by a doctor. They are typically used with a saline solution. This is a helpful treatment, especially in children—if they’ll let you! 
  9. Cough-B-Gone – Cough-B-Gone by Earthley is an herbal tincture created to help relieve colds, coughs, and congestion. Rather than using synthetic, chemical-tasting cough syrups, nourish your body and support the respiratory system with the natural power of herbs. 
  10. Respiratory Remedies Bundle – This is a bundle of three powerful tincture remedies made by Earthley.  
  11. Rest and Fluids – Rest is essential for recovery from any illness. Make sure your loved one gets plenty of sleep and stays hydrated to help the body fight off infection. 

 While uncomfortable, bronchitis is often manageable with natural remedies, rest, and hydration. As their caregiver, your support can make all the difference in their recovery. Stay calm, provide peace and comfort, and encourage using natural remedies to ease their symptoms.  

If your loved one has bronchitis, you may have to consider seeking medical intervention if they’re having extreme difficulty breathing, showing signs of respiratory distress, or having chest pain and tightness. Remember that bronchitis is rarely an emergency. So, unless your loved one is showing signs of severe distress, it is safe to stay home.  

Create a soothing environment at home with plenty of fluids, herbal teas, and other remedies. You got this! With the proper care, they’ll be feeling better in no time. 

This is the writings of:

mfrancis
AD

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Hi, I’m Kate.  I love medical freedom, sharing natural remedies, developing real food recipes, and gentle parenting. My goal is to teach you how to live your life free from Big Pharma, Big Food, and Big Government by learning about herbs, cooking, and sustainable practices.

I’m the author of Natural Remedies for Kids and the owner and lead herbalist at EarthleyI hope you’ll join me on the journey to a free and healthy life!

Meet My Family
Top
Love our content? Sign up for our weekly newsletter and get our FREE Nourished Living Cookbook!