10 best herbal teas for pertussis

For pertussis, also known as whooping cough, herbal teas can provide relief from symptoms.

Thyme tea has natural antibacterial properties that help combat the infection. Ginger tea soothes the throat and reduces inflammation, while peppermint tea eases coughing spasms.

Echinacea tea boosts the immune system, supporting the body's natural defense against the illness. Elderberry tea, rich in antioxidants, reduces the severity of symptoms and promotes healing.

These herbal teas, consumed hot or cold, offer a comforting and effective way to alleviate pertussis symptoms.

1. Licorice

Licorice tea aids in alleviating pertussis symptoms due to its active component, glycyrrhizin.

This compound possesses anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce irritation in the airways, providing relief from persistent coughing. Moreover, glycyrrhizin exhibits expectorant qualities, making it effective in loosening and eliminating mucus from the respiratory tract. Consequently, licorice tea soothes irritation and encourages faster recovery from pertussis, aided further by its demulcent effects on the mucous membranes.

Nevertheless, individuals with specific health conditions, such as hypertension or kidney issues, should avoid licorice tea, as it can aggravate these ailments.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in licorice tea that help with pertussis.

• Roots: The roots of the licorice tea plant contain glycyrrhizin, which has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, making it effective in treating cough and reducing inflammation in the respiratory tract caused by pertussis.
• Leaves: The leaves of the licorice tea plant contain flavonoids, which have been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to soothe irritation and reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract caused by pertussis.
• Seeds: The seeds of the licorice tea plant contain coumarins and triterpenoids, which have been shown to have expectorant and antitussive properties, helping to loosen phlegm and suppress coughing fits caused by pertussis.
• Bark: The bark of the licorice tea plant contains a high concentration of glycyrrhizin, which has been shown to have immune-boosting properties, helping to strengthen the body's defense against pertussis and reduce the severity of symptoms.
• Flowers: The flowers of the licorice tea plant contain volatile oils, which have been shown to have antimicrobial and antiviral properties, helping to inhibit the growth of bacteria and viruses that can cause pertussis.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in licorice tea that aid with pertussis.

• Glycyrrhizin: This compound has anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, which may help reduce inflammation in the airways and make it easier to cough up mucus in pertussis (whooping cough).
• Liquiritigenin: It has been shown to have antitussive effects, which can help alleviate coughing in pertussis.
• Glabridin: This compound has been found to have antimicrobial properties, specifically against Bordetella pertussis, the bacteria that causes pertussis.
• Glycyrrhetinic acid: It has an inhibitory effect on the growth of Bordetella pertussis, the bacteria that causes pertussis.
• Isoliquiritigenin: It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the lungs during pertussis. Liquiritigenin, Glabridin, Glycyrrhetinic acid, and Isoliquiritigenin can also help boost the immune system, which can help the body fight off the infection.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice tea for pertussis.

1. Boil 2 cups of water in a saucepan for 3-5 minutes.
2. Add 2 tablespoons of dried licorice root to the boiling water, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
3. Strain the tea to remove the licorice root, then let it cool down to a drinkable temperature.
4. Stir in honey or lemon juice for taste, if desired.
5. Drink 2-3 cups of licorice tea daily, as needed, for pertussis relief.

2. Coltsfoot

Coltsfoot tea aids in treating pertussis due to its expectorant properties, which derive from its active compounds, including mucilage, tannins, and flavonoids.

These substances work together to soothe irritated mucous membranes, reduce inflammation, and promote the expulsion of mucus from the airways. As a result, coltsfoot tea alleviates coughing fits, making it easier for individuals with pertussis to breathe and recover. Furthermore, its demulcent qualities help to protect the throat from further damage caused by persistent coughing, offering additional relief to those suffering from pertussis.

It is important to note, however, that coltsfoot tea should not replace prescribed medications or medical advice, and individuals should consult a healthcare professional before incorporating it into their treatment plan.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in coltsfoot tea that help with pertussis.

• Roots: Coltsfoot tea made from the roots contains anti-tussive properties that help alleviate persistent coughing in pertussis.
• Leaves: The leaves of coltsfoot plant are rich in mucilage, making it an effective demulcent for soothing irritated throat in pertussis.
• Flowers: Coltsfoot flowers have expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties that help expel mucus and reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract caused by pertussis.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in coltsfoot tea that aid with pertussis.

• Mucilage: Soothes irritated mucous membranes, reducing coughing fits in pertussis.
• Zinc: Boosts immune function, helping the body fight off the Bordetella pertussis bacteria that causes pertussis.
• Flavonoids: Exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, reducing inflammation in the respiratory tract caused by pertussis.
• Selenium: Supports thyroid and immune system function, enhancing the body's response to pertussis infection.
• Phenolic acids: Possess antibacterial properties, potentially inhibiting the growth of Bordetella pertussis.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic coltsfoot tea for pertussis.

1. Harvest coltsfoot flowers from a clean, pesticide-free area, ensuring they are fully open and dry (preferably on a sunny day).
2. Rinse the flowers gently under cold running water, then let them air dry on a paper towel.
3. Crush 2 tablespoons of dried coltsfoot flowers and add them to a teapot.
4. Pour 2 cups of boiling water over the crushed flowers and let them steep for 10-15 minutes.
5. Strain the tea into cups, discarding the spent flowers, and consume it up to three times a day for pertussis relief.

3. Mullein

Mullein tea provides relief from pertussis by acting as an expectorant, fluidizing mucus and making it easier to expel.

This tea's demulcent properties soothe irritated mucous membranes in the respiratory tract, reducing coughing fits. Its antispasmodic qualities help relax the muscles in the trachea, decreasing the intensity and frequency of coughing. Additionally, mullein tea contains saponins, compounds with natural anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, which aid in reducing inflammation and combating the pertussis-causing bacteria.

Lastly, drinking mullein tea regularly strengthens the immune system, promoting faster recovery from pertussis.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in mullein tea that help with pertussis.

• Leaves: Rich in mucilage, the leaves soothe irritated throats, providing relief from persistent coughing in pertussis.
• Flowers: Containing saponins, the flowers create a lubricating effect on respiratory membranes, helping to alleviate pertussis-related coughing spells.
• Roots: With expectorant properties, the roots aid in expelling mucus from the airways, benefiting those suffering from pertussis.
• Seeds: Packed with demulcent compounds, the seeds offer a soothing effect on the respiratory tract, reducing inflammation in pertussis cases.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in mullein tea that aid with pertussis.

• Marrubiin: This compound found in mullein has expectorant and anti-tussive properties, helping to calm coughs and expel mucus, which can alleviate symptoms of pertussis (whooping cough).
• Saponins: These natural compounds can help reduce inflammation and act as a gentle expectorant, making it easier to expel mucus and soothe irritated respiratory tracts, beneficial for pertussis patients.
• Flavonoids: These antioxidant compounds have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which can help relieve spasms in the respiratory tract and reduce inflammation, thus alleviating pertussis symptoms.
• Tannins: Mullein contains tannins, which have astringent properties that can help soothe irritated mucous membranes, reducing coughs and sore throats associated with pertussis.
• Rosmarinic acid: This compound has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties, which can help reduce inflammation and potentially inhibit the pertussis virus, providing relief for those affected.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic mullein tea for pertussis.

1. To make mullein tea for pertussis, first pick 2-3 tablespoons of dried mullein leaves and add them to a cup or teapot.
2. Pour boiling water over the leaves, ensuring they are fully submerged, then let the tea steep for 10-15 minutes to allow the medicinal properties to infuse.
3. Strain the tea to remove the leaves, discarding them safely to avoid any irritation from the tiny hairs on the leaves.
4. Drink the mullein tea while it is still warm, up to three times a day, to help relieve pertussis symptoms.
5. For best results, continue to drink mullein tea regularly for several days or until symptoms improve.

4. Marshmallow

Marshmallow tea relieves pertussis symptoms due to its anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe the cough reflex and reduce irritation in the throat.

The demulcent effect of marshmallow root creates a protective barrier over the mucous membranes, alleviating irritation and reducing coughing fits. This herbal remedy contains mucilage, a complex carbohydrate that forms a gel when combined with water, providing a soothing coating in the respiratory tract. Furthermore, the antitussive qualities of marshmallow tea suppress the cough reflex, offering respite from persistent coughing associated with pertussis.

Marshmallow tea's expectorant properties help expel mucus from the respiratory tract, making it easier to expel congestion and decreasing the duration of illness.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in marshmallow tea that help with pertussis.

• Roots: The roots of the marshmallow tea plant contain mucilage, which soothes irritated membranes in the respiratory tract, providing relief from pertussis symptoms.
• Leaves: The leaves of the marshmallow tea plant are rich in antitussive and expectorant properties, making them effective in treating persistent coughing associated with pertussis.
• Flowers: The flowers of the marshmallow tea plant have anti-inflammatory and demulcent properties, which help reduce inflammation in the airways and soothe irritation caused by pertussis.
• Seeds: The seeds of the marshmallow tea plant contain mucilage, which helps to coat and soothe the throat, providing relief from pertussis-related coughing and irritation.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in marshmallow tea that aid with pertussis.

• Mucilage: The mucilage in marshmallow tea coats and soothes inflamed mucous membranes, providing relief from severe coughing fits associated with pertussis.
• Ascorbic Acid: Ascorbic acid in marshmallow tea supports the immune system, helping the body fight off the pertussis bacteria.
• Pectin: Pectin in marshmallow tea has demulcent properties, forming a protective film on the mucous membranes, providing relief from pertussis-induced irritation and coughing.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids in marshmallow tea have anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and expectorant properties, helping to soothe coughs, reduce inflammation, and expel mucus caused by pertussis.
• Polysaccharides: Polysaccharides in marshmallow tea have immunostimulant properties, enhancing the body's immune response and aiding in the recovery from pertussis.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow tea for pertussis.

1. Measure out 2 teaspoons of dried marshmallow root and place in a tea infuser or teapot.
2. Boil 1 cup of water and pour it over the marshmallow root, then let it steep for 10-15 minutes.
3. Remove the tea infuser or strain the tea to remove the marshmallow root.
4. Optional: Add honey or lemon to taste for flavor.
5. Drink the tea while it's still warm, up to three times a day, for pertussis relief.

5. Horehound

Horehound tea helps with pertussis due to its expectorant properties, which come from its active compounds, such as marrubiin.

These substances loosen mucus, making it easier to expel. As a result, horehound tea eases coughing spells and reduces the severity of pertussis symptoms.

Additionally, horehound has antispasmodic properties that help soothe the respiratory system and alleviate muscle spasms, providing further relief from the constant coughing associated with pertussis. Furthermore, horehound's traditional use as a natural remedy for respiratory ailments and its proven positive effects on cough suppression support its efficacy in treating pertussis.

Finally, horehound tea offers a safe and milder alternative to conventional pharmaceutical treatments for pertussis without compromising its therapeutic benefits.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in horehound tea that help with pertussis.

• Roots: The roots of horehound tea plant contain bitter compounds that help soothe coughs and reduce irritation in the throat, making them effective in treating pertussis.
• Leaves: The leaves of horehound tea plant have been used in traditional medicine to treat respiratory conditions such as pertussis, due to their expectorant properties.
• Flowers: The flowers of horehound tea plant are rich in essential oils and antioxidants that have anti-inflammatory effects, providing relief from coughing fits caused by pertussis.
• Seeds: The seeds of horehound tea plant contain active compounds that have expectorant and antispasmodic properties, helping to expel mucus from the respiratory tract and alleviating symptoms of pertussis.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in horehound tea that aid with pertussis.

• Marrubiin: This compound found in horehound has expectorant and cough suppressant properties, helping to expel mucus and soothe irritation in the respiratory tract, alleviating pertussis symptoms.
• Flavonoids: These antioxidants have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects, reducing inflammation and spasms in the respiratory tract, providing relief from whooping cough.
• Diterpenes: Certain diterpenes in horehound, like marrubiin, have been found to have antitussive and bronchodilatory effects, helping to alleviate cough and expand airways, beneficial for individuals with pertussis.
• Volatile oils: The volatile oils in horehound, including α- and β-pinene, have been shown to have antibacterial and antiviral properties, potentially aiding in fighting the pertussis bacterium.
• Tannins: These astringent compounds can help to reduce mucus secretion, providing some relief from excess mucus production caused by pertussis.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic horehound tea for pertussis.

1. In a saucepan, combine 2 tablespoons of dried horehound leaves with 2 cups of water.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
3. Strain the tea to remove the horehound leaves.
4. Allow the tea to cool to a drinkable temperature.
5. Drink 3-4 cups of horehound tea daily, as needed, to help alleviate pertussis symptoms.

6. Pleurisy

Pleurisy tea brings relief to pertussis symptoms due to its potent anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties derived primarily from its key ingredient, licorice root.

This herbal remedy's effectiveness lies in its ability to reduce swelling of the respiratory tract lining, alleviating pain during coughing fits. Furthermore, pleurisy tea loosens mucus, facilitating its expulsion and minimizing congestion. Additionally, this soothing beverage contains compounds that directly target the whooping cough bacteria, contributing to an overall improvement in the condition.

Finally, pleurisy tea's antispasmodic agents help calm the violent coughing spasms, offering comfort and promoting restorative sleep essential for recovery from pertussis.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in pleurisy tea that help with pertussis.

• Leaves: Rich in essential oils and compounds with expectorant and soothing properties, leaves are ideal for making medicinal tea to alleviate pertussis symptoms.
• Flowers: Containing anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic agents, flowers help reduce inflammation and calm coughing fits in pertussis patients.
• Seeds: Packed with antioxidants and vitamins, seeds produce a medicinal tea that strengthens the immune system, aiding in the recovery from pertussis.
• Bark: The bark is a potent source of tannins and other beneficial compounds, producing a medicinal tea that helps soothe irritated respiratory tracts in pertussis sufferers.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in pleurisy tea that aid with pertussis.

• Eugenol: This compound, found in pleurisy root, has antispasmodic and analgesic properties, helping to relieve the painful spasms associated with pertussis (whooping cough).
• Methyl salicylate: Also found in pleurisy root, this compound has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, helping to reduce inflammation and alleviate pertussis-related discomfort.
• Hedeoma: This constituent of pleurisy tea, also known as pennyroyal, has expectorant and antispasmodic properties, aiding in the expulsion of mucus and reducing coughing spasms.
• Limonene: Found in lemon balm, an occasional ingredient in pleurisy tea, this compound has antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, and calming effects, helping to soothe pertussis symptoms.
• Cineole: Present in eucalyptus, an occasional ingredient in pleurisy tea, this compound has expectorant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, assisting in the elimination of mucus and potentially inhibiting the pertussis-causing bacterium.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pleurisy tea for pertussis.

1. In a saucepan, combine 2 cups of water and 2 tablespoons of dried pleurisy root, bringing it to a boil.
2. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and add 1 teaspoon of honey and a squeeze of lemon juice.
4. Strain the tea to remove the pleurisy root pieces.
5. Serve the tea while warm, up to three times a day for best results.

7. Hyssop

Hyssop tea provides relief from pertussis by acting as an expectorant, loosening mucus in the respiratory tract and making it easier to expel.

This herbal tea's antispasmodic properties alleviate coughing spasms associated with pertussis, reducing discomfort. Additionally, hyssop tea contains antiviral and antibacterial compounds that help combat the pertussis-causing bacteria, Bordetella pertussis. Furthermore, hyssop tea's anti-inflammatory effects soothe inflamed airways, promoting easier breathing.

Its soothing properties also encourage restful sleep, which is vital for recovery.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in hyssop tea that help with pertussis.

• Leaves: Rich in essential oils and antispasmodic properties, leaves are ideal for soothing coughs and reducing spasms in pertussis.
• Flowers: Contain flavonoids that have anti-tussive and expectorant effects, making flowers an effective addition to medicinal tea for pertussis.
• Seeds: Seeds are a natural source of antioxidants and have been used for their anti-inflammatory properties, beneficial for treating respiratory conditions like pertussis.
• Stems: High in rosmarinic acid, stems of hyssop tea plant have been used to alleviate symptoms of respiratory infections and reduce inflammation.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in hyssop tea that aid with pertussis.

• EUGENOL: This compound has antispasmodic properties, which can help relieve the severe coughing fits associated with pertussis, also known as whooping cough.
• CAMPHOR: Camphor has expectorant and cough suppressant properties, which can help clear mucus and alleviate coughing spells in pertussis.
• THYMOL: Thymol has antibacterial properties, which may help combat the Bordetella pertussis bacterium that causes pertussis.
• CARVACROL: Carvacrol also has antibacterial properties, contributing to the fight against the pertussis-causing bacterium.
• ROSMARINIC ACID: This compound has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce airway inflammation and irritation caused by persistent coughing in pertussis.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic hyssop tea for pertussis.

1. In a pot, combine 2 cups of water and 2 tablespoons of dried hyssop leaves.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Strain the tea to remove the hyssop leaves, then let it cool to a drinkable temperature.
4. Stir in honey or lemon juice to taste, if desired.
5. Drink 3 cups of hyssop tea per day, as needed, to help alleviate pertussis symptoms.

8. Elecampane

Elecampane tea aids in treating pertussis due to its expectorant and anti-tussive properties, derived from its active constituents, primarily alantolactone and isoalantolactone.

These compounds work together to loosen and expel mucus from the respiratory tract, thereby alleviating coughing fits. Furthermore, elecampane tea soothes irritated mucous membranes, reducing the intensity and frequency of coughing. Additionally, this herbal tea has antibacterial properties, which can help combat the Bordetella pertussis bacterium that causes pertussis.

Lastly, elecampane tea's anti-inflammatory effects help in reducing airway inflammation and swelling, further easing breathing difficulties associated with pertussis.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in elecampane tea that help with pertussis.

• Roots: The roots of elecampane tea plant contain useful compounds that help soothe coughs and ease bronchial spasms, making them ideal for treating pertussis.
• Rhizomes: The rhizomes of elecampane tea plant have expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to expel mucus from the respiratory tract and reduce inflammation, which is beneficial for pertussis.
• Flowers: The flowers of elecampane tea plant have antispasmodic and calming effects that help alleviate coughing spasms associated with pertussis.
• Leaves: The leaves of elecampane tea plant are rich in nutrients and contain compounds that have antitussive and expectorant properties, aiding in the treatment of pertussis symptoms.
• Seeds: The seeds of elecampane tea plant contain beneficial oils that have been shown to have antitussive and expectorant effects, making them useful for managing symptoms of pertussis.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in elecampane tea that aid with pertussis.

• Alantolactone: This compound has been shown to have antibacterial properties, which can help to combat the Bordetella pertussis bacteria that cause pertussis.
• Isoalantolactone: Similar to alantolactone, isoalantolactone also has antibacterial properties that can help to fight the Bordetella pertussis bacteria.
• Elecampane oil: This oil has been found to have anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, which can help to soothe irritation in the respiratory tract and expel mucus caused by pertussis.
• Luteolin: This flavonoid has been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the respiratory tract caused by pertussis.
• Apigenin: This flavonoid also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and has been shown to have expectorant and antimicrobial effects, which can help to clear mucus and combat the Bordetella pertussis bacteria.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic elecampane tea for pertussis.

1. Chop 1-2 tablespoons of dried elecampane root into small pieces.
2. Place the chopped elecampane root in a teapot and add 4 cups of boiling water.
3. Let the mixture steep for 10-15 minutes.
4. Strain the tea to remove the elecampane root pieces.
5. Drink 3-4 cups of the tea throughout the day, preferably between meals.

9. Thyme

Thyme tea provides relief from pertussis due to its expectorant properties, which derive from its active compounds, such as thymol and carvacrol.

These compounds facilitate the removal of mucus, easing coughing fits caused by the infection. Moreover, thyme exhibits antispasmodic qualities, which aid in soothing the irritated respiratory tracts and reducing the intensity and frequency of violent coughing. Furthermore, thyme tea demonstrates potent antibacterial properties, targeting the Bordetella pertussis bacterium responsible for pertussis.

Additionally, its anti-inflammatory effects contribute to alleviating inflammation in the airways, thus promoting faster recovery.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in thyme tea that help with pertussis.

• Leaves: Rich in essential oils and antispasmodic compounds, thyme leaves are used to make medicinal tea for pertussis due to their ability to relax tracheal muscles and alleviate coughing spasms.
• Flowers: Containing flavonoids and volatile oils, thyme flowers help soothe irritated throats and suppress cough, making them an ideal addition to medicinal tea for pertussis.
• Stems: Although less potent than leaves and flowers, thyme stems still contain therapeutic compounds, providing a milder alternative for treating pertussis symptoms in medicinal tea.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in thyme tea that aid with pertussis.

• Thymol: Thymol, a monoterpene phenol, has antimicrobial and expectorant properties, helping to clear mucus and fight the Bordetella pertussis bacterium responsible for pertussis.
• Carvacrol: Carvacrol, a monoterpenoid, exhibits antitussive and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to alleviate coughing fits and reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract during pertussis.
• Linalool: Linalool, a terpene alcohol, possesses bronchodilatory and sedative properties, aiding in the relaxation of airways and promoting better sleep during pertussis treatment.
• α-Pinene: α-Pinene, a bicyclic monoterpene, exhibits bronchodilatory and mucolytic properties, helping to open up airways and reduce mucus viscosity in pertussis patients.
• Camphene: Camphene, a bicyclic monoterpene, has expectorant and anti-inflammatory effects, assisting in the expulsion of mucus and reducing inflammation in the respiratory system during pertussis.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme tea for pertussis.

1. In a small pot, boil 1 cup of water for 3-5 minutes.
2. Add 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme leaves or 1 tablespoon of dried thyme leaves to a tea infuser.
3. Place the tea infuser in a cup and pour the boiling water over it.
4. Let the tea steep for 5-10 minutes.
5. Remove the tea infuser and enjoy the thyme tea, up to 3 cups per day.

10. Oregano

Oregano tea provides relief from pertussis due to its antibacterial properties, which directly combat the Bordetella pertussis bacterium causing the infection.

This herbal tea's antispasmodic qualities alleviate the characteristic spasms or "whooping" coughs associated with the ailment. Additionally, oregano tea's anti-inflammatory effects help reduce inflammation in the airways, making breathing easier for individuals battling pertussis. Furthermore, its expectorant properties encourage the removal of mucus from the respiratory tract, thereby promoting a faster recovery.

Lastly, oregano tea's immune-boosting abilities strengthen the body's defenses against pertussis, contributing to a more effective and efficient healing process.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in oregano tea that help with pertussis.

• Leaves: Rich in rosmarinic acid and carvacrol, oregano tea made from leaves has strong antispasmodic properties that relieve coughing in pertussis.
• Flowers: Containing high levels of thymol and beta-cis-ocimene, oregano tea made from flowers has potent expectorant qualities, helping to clear mucus from the respiratory tract in pertussis.
• Seeds: Packed with essential oils like terpinen-4-ol, oregano tea made from seeds exhibits strong antimicrobial properties that help combat pertussis-causing bacteria.
• Stems: High in flavonoids and phenolic acids, oregano tea made from stems has powerful anti-inflammatory effects, soothing inflamed airways in pertussis.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in oregano tea that aid with pertussis.

• Carvacrol: Has antibacterial properties that may help to fight against the bacterium that causes pertussis, Bordetella pertussis.
• Thymol: Exhibits antimicrobial and antioxidant activities, which can help to reduce inflammation and damage to lung tissue caused by coughing fits in pertussis.
• Rosmarinic acid: Possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of pertussis, such as coughing and difficulty breathing.
• Oleanolic acid: Demonstrates antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, potentially aiding in the reduction of pertussis symptoms and preventing the spread of the bacteria.
• Ursolic acid: Exhibits antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and expectorant properties, which can help to clear respiratory tract congestion and alleviate coughing in pertussis.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic oregano tea for pertussis.

1. In a saucepan, boil 1 cup of water for 3-5 minutes.
2. Add 1 teaspoon of dried oregano leaves to the boiling water, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Strain the tea to remove oregano leaves, then let it cool down to a drinkable temperature.
4. Stir in 1-2 teaspoons of honey or lemon juice for flavor, if desired.
5. Drink up to three cups of oregano tea per day, as needed.

What is pertussis and how can it affect your life?

Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis.

This disease triggers violent, uncontrollable coughing fits that make it difficult to breathe, eat, or drink. Consequently, pertussis interferes with daily activities, affects sleep patterns, and poses a significant health risk, particularly for babies under one year of age, who face severe complications such as pneumonia, convulsions, and brain damage.

In extreme cases, pertussis can even lead to death.

What other natural remedies help with pertussis?

Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by the Bordetella pertussis bacterium.

While vaccination is the most effective way to prevent pertussis, natural remedies can aid in alleviating symptoms and supporting the immune system during the illness. Three particularly common and effective natural remedies for pertussis include probiotics, vitamin C, and essential oils.

Probiotics, found in fermented foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, and kimchi, or in supplement form, introduce beneficial bacteria into the gut, boosting the immune system and reducing the severity and duration of pertussis symptoms. Vitamin C, abundant in fruits like citrus, berries, and kiwi, as well as in vegetables such as bell peppers and broccoli, strengthens the immune system and has antioxidant properties that help the body combat the infection. Lastly, essential oils, such as eucalyptus, tea tree, and oregano oil, have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate respiratory symptoms and soothe irritated airways.

These remedies, when used responsibly and under the guidance of a healthcare professional, can complement medical treatment and expedite recovery from pertussis.