Bronchitis is caused by the acute inflammation of the trachea and the bronchi of lungs which results in the accumulation and discharge of sputum or phlegm. Ayurveda defines bronchitis as when the aggravated Vata blocks Kapha present in the respiratory channels, it interrupts the movement of air and causes phlegm to accumulate in the lung tissue. The body reacts to this condition by coughing to expel the phlegm which results in bronchitis. The lead causes of bronchitis can be attributed to inhalation of dust and smoke, intake of foods that have a drying effect on the body, physical exertion, suppression of natural urges, etc.
Simple home remedies to manage bronchitis.
- Honey and ginger – Seasonal bronchitis can be kept under check by having two teaspoons of fresh ginger juice mixed with an equal amount of honey twice daily. This will also reduce the intensity of the condition.
- Camphor and mustard oil – Warm 2 tablespoons of mustard oil and dissolve 2 grams of camphor in it. Apply this mixture gently all over the chest, neck and back without massaging. Leave it for a few minutes and give dry fomentation for relief.
- Turmeric and milk – Boil a glass of milk with a teaspoon of turmeric powder. Drink this milk twice or thrice daily to soothe the condition.
- Ginger and black pepper – To a cup of boiling water, add a teaspoon of ginger powder and black pepper. Mix in honey and drink the mixture twice daily.
- Steam – Inhaling steam is beneficial to help loosen the secretions in the lungs. Adding a few drops of eucalyptus oil to the hot water will help soften the mucus that has been obstructing the airways.
- Sesame seeds – The medicinal properties of sesame seeds help relieve chest congestion associated with bronchitis. Add half a teaspoon of sesame seed powder to two tablespoons of water and have the mixture twice daily.
- Epsom salt bath – When suffering from acute bronchitis symptoms, epsom salt can provide relief. Add a few tablespoons of epsom salt to bathing water and soak in it for half an hour.
- Salt water gargle – Add a teaspoon of salt water to a glass of warm water and gargle with it several times a day to soothe the throat inflammation and to cut through the mucus that is causing irritation to the throat.
- Herbal tea – Add half a teaspoon each of ginger powder, cinnamon powder and cloves powder to a cup of hot water and mix well. Drinking this tea will help relieve the condition due to the therapeutic properties of the herbs.
