If you have bronchitis, you’re probably coughing up a storm. This also means that the tubes that carry air to and from your lungs are inflamed. This can make it hard to eat, sleep, and talk! However, bronchitis usually goes away after two weeks without medicine. You can also speed up recovery with these nine natural remedies.
9 Natural Remedies For Bronchitis
1. Inhale Steam
Steam can naturally thin mucus, a common symptom of bronchitis. Just boil water and breathe in the steam. But don’t place your face too close to the water! Keep it at a safe distance. You can make it more soothing by adding few drops of eucalyptus or peppermint oil.
2. Drink Water
Aside from thinning mucus, drinking lots of water will soothe your throat. It will also hydrate your system, increasing the chances of a speedy recovery.
3. Eat Spicy Foods
If you can stand them, eat spicy foods like cayenne pepper and salsa. They will encourage coughing – in a good way. They’ll also thin the mucus, making it easier to get out.
4. Take Echinacea
Treat your throat to warm Echinacea tea with honey and lemon. It will also boost your immune system and help your body fight off the sickness. If you don’t like tea, take Echinacea supplements.
5. Gargle With Saltwater
Saltwater can ease the pain from irritated throats. To make a mouthwash, mix one teaspoon of salt with one cup of warm water. Gargle the solution and spit out.
6. Apply A Hot Compress
Placing a hot water bottle on your chest can lighten up that heavy feeling. The water shouldn’t be hot enough to burn you, though. f you don’t have a water bottle, soak a small towel in warm water. Wring it out and lay it on your chest.
7. Cough
Yes, you read that right. Coughing will help your body get rid of that annoying mucus. So if you feel like coughing, let it happen. Don’t take a cough suppressant unless your doctor says so. Remember, this type of medicine won’t let your body get rid of mucus.
8. Eat Warm Soup
When you have bronchitis, it can be hard to eat. Keep your tummy full with a vegetable or chicken broth. You can bulk it up with diced carrots, celery, or brown rice. The warm liquid will also thin the mucus.
9. Consume Honey And Lemon
Add honey and lemon to your tea. The honey will coat your throat, while the lemon will give you antioxidants. They taste great together, too. You can even add honey and lemon to plain warm water for a simple drink.
It’s a good idea to avoid drinking alcohol and smoking cigarettes. These habits will just make your condition worse. Instead, take it easy and get enough rest!
