10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Acute Bronchitis

Herbal decoctions for acute bronchitis are liquid extracts made from combining herbs with hot water, which can help alleviate symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and chest congestion.

These decoctions work by loosening and expelling mucus from the lungs, reducing inflammation, and soothing irritated airways. Examples of herbal decoctions that have been shown to be effective in treating acute bronchitis include ginger, thyme, and eucalyptus.

By drinking these decoctions regularly, individuals with acute bronchitis can experience improved breathing, reduced discomfort, and a faster recovery process, ultimately improving their quality of life.

The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for acute bronchitis, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Echinacea purpurea

Purple coneflower decoctions helps with acute bronchitis because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling in the airways and ease congestion.

The decoction's antimicrobial compounds also combat the underlying bacterial infection, while its expectorant properties help loosen and clear mucus from the lungs. Additionally, the decoction's antioxidant activity soothes the respiratory tract, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with bronchitis.

As a result, purple coneflower decoctions provide natural relief for acute bronchitis sufferers.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea decoctions that help with acute bronchitis.

• Isobutyl amide: This compound has anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract, alleviating symptoms of acute bronchitis.
• Cichoric acid: A phenolic compound, cichoric acid has antimicrobial properties, which help combat infections in the respiratory tract, such as those caused by viruses or bacteria, that can lead to acute bronchitis.
• Icariin: Icariin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help protect the respiratory tract from oxidative damage and inflammation, reducing the severity of acute bronchitis symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make decoctions for acute bronchitis.

• Roots: They are used for their immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties to help alleviate bronchitis symptoms.
• Leaves: They are used for their antimicrobial properties to help combat infections and reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract.
• Flowers: They are used for their antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties to help alleviate symptoms such as cough and congestion.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for acute bronchitis.

1. Harvest 2-3 ounces of fresh echinacea purpurea roots and flowers in the late summer or early fall season.
2. Clean and dry the harvested echinacea purpurea roots and flowers thoroughly to prevent contamination.
3. Chop 1-2 teaspoons of dried echinacea purpurea roots and flowers into small pieces to increase surface area.
4. Combine 1 cup of boiling water with 1-2 teaspoons of the chopped echinacea purpurea roots and flowers.
5. Steep the mixture for 5-10 minutes to allow the echinacea purpurea properties to infuse into the water.

2. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice decoctions helps with acute bronchitis because it provides a soothing and anti-inflammatory effect on the respiratory tract.

The licorice root contains compounds that help to calm down the airways, reducing inflammation and spasms caused by the infection. Additionally, its expectorant properties help to loosen mucus, making it easier to cough up and clear out of the lungs, promoting rapid recovery from the acute bronchitis episode.

This natural remedy is a valuable alternative or complementary treatment for managing symptoms and promoting healing in cases of acute bronchitis.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra decoctions that help with acute bronchitis.

• Licorice flavonoids: These flavonoids help reduce inflammation and soothe the mucous membranes in the respiratory tract, providing relief from acute bronchitis symptoms.
• Glycyrrhetic acid: As an anti-inflammatory agent, glycyrrhetic acid helps reduce swelling and inflammation in the lungs, making it easier to breathe and alleviating acute bronchitis symptoms.
• Isoliquiritigenin: This phenolic compound has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help protect the lungs from damage caused by acute bronchitis and promote recovery.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make decoctions for acute bronchitis.

• Roots: The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of glycyrrhizin, which has anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties.
• Leaves: The leaves contain flavonoids and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory and soothing effects, making them useful in treating acute bronchitis.
• Fruits: The fruits of Glycyrrhiza glabra, although less commonly used, contain glycosides that may help to relieve cough and soothe the respiratory tract in cases of acute bronchitis.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for acute bronchitis.

1. Harvest 1 to 2 pounds of fresh roots of glycyrrhiza glabra in the morning when the dew is still present.
2. Clean the roots by gently brushing off dirt with a soft-bristled brush to remove impurities.
3. Chop the roots into small pieces weighing about 10 to 20 grams per serving and store them in an airtight container.
4. Boil 1 quart of water and add the chopped roots for 5 to 10 minutes or until the liquid reaches 95 degrees fahrenheit.
5. Strain the liquid and discard the solids by using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to obtain the decoction.

3. Euphrasia officinalis

Eyebright decoctions helps with acute bronchitis because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling in the airways and alleviate congestion.

The decoction's expectorant qualities also loosen and clear mucus from the lungs, making it easier to breathe. Additionally, eyebright's natural antiseptic properties help to combat infections, while its soothing properties calm coughs and ease irritation in the throat.

Overall, eyebright decoctions provide a gentle yet effective way to alleviate acute bronchitis symptoms and promote healing.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Euphrasia officinalis decoctions that help with acute bronchitis.

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have been found to possess anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, which help to reduce inflammation and promote the removal of mucus from the airways in acute bronchitis.
• Phenolic acids: The phenolic acids present in Euphrasia officinalis decoctions have been shown to exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, which can help to alleviate the symptoms of acute bronchitis, such as cough and congestion.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids found in Euphrasia officinalis decoctions have been found to possess anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, which can help to regulate the immune response and reduce the severity of acute bronchitis symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of eyebright used to make decoctions for acute bronchitis.

• Leaves: They are rich in bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, making them effective in relieving bronchitis symptoms.
• Stems: The stems of Euphrasia officinalis contain flavonoids and phenolic acids, which help to reduce inflammation and improve respiratory function.
• Flowers: The flowers of the plant are known for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help to alleviate symptoms of acute bronchitis such as coughing and congestion.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic eyebright for acute bronchitis.

1. Harvest the fresh euphrasia officinalis leaves and flowers for immediate use or drying for later preparation.
2. Dry the euphrasia officinalis leaves and flowers in a warm dark place for 7 to 14 days.
3. Measure out a dose of dried euphrasia officinalis leaves and flowers weighing 20 to 30 grams.
4. Steep the dried euphrasia officinalis in 500 milliliters of boiling water for 15 to 30 minutes.
5. Strain the decoction and discard the solids to obtain the final herbal euphrasia officinalis liquid.

4. Thymus vulgaris

Thyme decoctions helps with acute bronchitis because its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties help combat bacterial infections that cause congestion and inflammation in the airways.

The thymol present in thyme also relaxes the airway muscles, making it easier to breathe. Additionally, thyme's expectorant properties help loosen and clear out mucus from the lungs, reducing coughing and congestion.

By soothing the respiratory tract, thyme decoctions provide relief from symptoms associated with acute bronchitis, promoting a faster recovery.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus vulgaris decoctions that help with acute bronchitis.

• Thymol: Thymol is a phenolic compound that helps reduce inflammation and fights off bacterial infections, which can exacerbate acute bronchitis.
• Carvacrol: Carvacrol is a phenolic compound that helps break down and clear mucus from the airways, relieving congestion and cough associated with acute bronchitis.
• Caryophyllene oxide: Caryophyllene oxide is a sesquiterpene that exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the severity of acute bronchitis symptoms, such as coughing and shortness of breath.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make decoctions for acute bronchitis.

• Leaves: They are rich in thymol, a compound known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help in reducing bronchitis symptoms.
• Buds: They contain essential oils that have expectorant properties, making it easier to cough up mucus and relieve congestion in the lungs.
• Stems: They also contain thymol and other essential oils that help in reducing inflammation and fighting infections in the respiratory tract.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme for acute bronchitis.

1. Gather 10-20 grams of fresh thymus vulgaris leaves or 5-10 grams of dried leaves for decoction.
2. Chop the gathered thymus vulgaris leaves into small pieces to release their volatile oils.
3. Combine the chopped thymus vulgaris leaves with 250 milliliters of water in a saucepan.
4. Bring the water to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for 5-10 minutes.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a cup or container.

5. Viscum album

Mistletoe decoctions helps with acute bronchitis because of its remarkable ability to relax and expand airways, relieving constriction and reducing inflammation.

The decoction's antimicrobial properties combat bacterial and viral infections that cause bronchial congestion, while its expectorant qualities help loosen and clear mucus from the lungs. Additionally, mistletoe's anti-inflammatory compounds reduce swelling in the bronchial tubes, making it easier to breathe and alleviating coughing fits.

This natural remedy offers a holistic approach to managing acute bronchitis symptoms, promoting a faster recovery and improved lung function.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Viscum album decoctions that help with acute bronchitis.

• Iscador: Iscador is an alkaloid mixture derived from Viscum album, which helps to reduce inflammation and suppress the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the lungs, contributing to relief from acute bronchitis symptoms.
• Viscotoxins: Viscotoxins are a group of phenolic compounds found in Viscum album, which exhibit antimicrobial properties, helping to combat bacterial infections that often accompany acute bronchitis.
• Lignans: Lignans are a type of phenolic compound present in Viscum album, which have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to soothe the respiratory tract and reduce oxidative stress associated with acute bronchitis.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of mistletoe used to make decoctions for acute bronchitis.

• Leaves: Viscum album leaves are rich in saponins, which have anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties that help relieve bronchitis symptoms.
• Stems: Viscum album stems contain a high concentration of iridoid glycosides, which exhibit bronchodilatory and anti-inflammatory effects, making them effective in treating acute bronchitis.
• Leaves: Viscum album leaves also contain viscosine, an iridoid glycoside that has been traditionally used to treat respiratory issues, including bronchitis, by easing cough and congestion.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic mistletoe for acute bronchitis.

1. Gather 25 to 50 grams of dried viscum album bark and twigs from a trusted source.
2. Crush the dried viscum album bark and twigs into small pieces using a mortar and pestle.
3. Combine the crushed viscum album with 500 milliliters of water in a saucepan.
4. Bring the viscum album mixture to a boil and then reduce heat to a simmer for 10 to 30 minutes.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

6. Sambucus nigra

Elder decoctions helps with acute bronchitis because it is a natural expectorant that loosens and clears mucus from the airways, reducing congestion and coughing.

The antiviral properties of elder flowers also help combat the underlying infection, while its anti-inflammatory qualities soothe the bronchial tubes, alleviating discomfort and chest tightness.

Additionally, elder decoctions can help reduce fever and promote overall respiratory health, making it a valuable natural remedy for acute bronchitis sufferers.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sambucus nigra decoctions that help with acute bronchitis.

• Sambunigrin: A glycoside that acts as an expectorant, helping to loosen and clear mucus from the airways, thereby alleviating congestion associated with acute bronchitis.
• Vitamin c: An antioxidant that plays a crucial role in immune function, helping to combat viral infections that often cause acute bronchitis, and reducing inflammation in the respiratory tract.
• Flavonoids: A class of plant compounds with anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling and pain in the respiratory tract, making it easier to breathe and alleviating symptoms of acute bronchitis.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of elder used to make decoctions for acute bronchitis.

• Flowers: They are used due to their high content of bioactive compounds, particularly flavonoids and anthocyanins, which have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties.
• Leaves: The leaves are used because they contain a high concentration of saponins, which help in reducing inflammation and acting as an expectorant to relieve bronchitis symptoms.
• Fruits: The fruits of Sambucus nigra are used in decoctions for acute bronchitis as they contain a combination of flavonoids, saponins, and other bioactive compounds that help to soothe the respiratory tract and reduce inflammation.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic elder for acute bronchitis.

1. Harvest 2-3 sambucus nigra branches containing 4-6 inches of fresh flowers and leaves in mid to late summer.
2. Chop the harvested sambucus nigra into small pieces weighing about 1 ounce or 28 grams.
3. Combine the chopped sambucus nigra with 2 cups of boiling water in a glass pot and let steep for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass container discarding the solids.
5. Allow the decoction to cool to room temperature and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

7. Achillea millefolium

Yarrow decoctions helps with acute bronchitis because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe irritated airways and reduce congestion.

The decoction's expectorant qualities loosen mucus, making it easier to expel and clearing the airways of phlegm and other debris. Additionally, yarrow's antimicrobial compounds help combat bacterial infections that often accompany acute bronchitis, promoting a faster recovery.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries to effectively alleviate symptoms and support the body's natural healing process.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Achillea millefolium decoctions that help with acute bronchitis.

• Chlorogenic acid: This polyphenolic compound helps reduce inflammation and fights off bacterial infections that can cause acute bronchitis.
• Apigenin: As a flavonoid, apigenin exhibits anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which can help ease coughing and relieve bronchial spasms.
• Bornyl acetate: This terpene has expectorant properties, which can help loosen and clear mucus from the airways, making it easier to breathe and relieving symptoms of acute bronchitis.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of yarrow used to make decoctions for acute bronchitis.

• Leaves: They are used due to their high content of flavonoids and sesquiterpenes, which have anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties.
• Flowers: They are used for their antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, which help to soothe the respiratory tract and relieve bronchitis symptoms.
• Roots: They are used due to their high content of sesquiterpenes and flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, helping to ease bronchitis symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yarrow for acute bronchitis.

1. Gather 20-30 grams of dried achillea millefolium flowers and leaves from a trusted source for medicinal use.
2. Combine the gathered herbs with 1 liter of boiling water in a heat-resistant container to make decoction.
3. Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the plant's active compounds to infuse into the water.
4. Strain the decoction using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove solids.
5. Store the prepared decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before using as needed.

8. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion decoctions helps with acute bronchitis because of its natural expectorant properties, which loosen and clear mucus from the lungs.

The bitter compounds in dandelion roots help to stimulate the production of mucous, making it easier to cough up congestion. Additionally, dandelion's anti-inflammatory properties reduce swelling in the airways, allowing for smoother breathing.

By supporting the body's natural defense mechanisms, dandelion decoctions can provide effective relief from bronchitis symptoms, helping to alleviate coughing, wheezing, and chest tightness.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale decoctions that help with acute bronchitis.

• Saponins: Saponins, a type of triterpenoid glycoside, help to reduce inflammation and mucus production in the airways, alleviating symptoms of acute bronchitis.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids, particularly quercetin, act as a potent antioxidant, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the airways, which can contribute to the development and progression of acute bronchitis.
• Taraxasterol: Taraxasterol, a triterpenoid saponin, has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce the severity of acute bronchitis symptoms by inhibiting the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make decoctions for acute bronchitis.

• Leaves: They contain flavonoids and terpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, helping to relieve bronchitis symptoms.
• Roots: They have expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to clear mucus and reduce inflammation in the bronchial tubes.
• Flowers: They contain flavonoids and volatile oils, which have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, helping to soothe and calm the respiratory tract.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for acute bronchitis.

1. Harvest 10-20 fresh taraxacum officinale roots with a fork after the first frost in the fall season.
2. Clean and dry the roots thoroughly using a clean towel for about 30 minutes.
3. Grate 2-3 teaspoons of the dried roots using a fine grater or a food processor for 2 minutes.
4. Combine the grated roots with 2 cups of water in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil for 5 minutes.
5. Reduce heat and let the decoction simmer for 10-15 minutes then strain and discard the solids.

9. Gelsemium sempervirens

Yellow jessamine decoctions helps with acute bronchitis because of its natural anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties.

The decoction's flavonoids and terpenes help to reduce inflammation in the airways, making it easier for patients to breathe. Additionally, the expectorant properties help to loosen and clear out mucus and phlegm from the lungs, allowing for more efficient clearance of infection-causing pathogens.

This natural approach can provide relief from symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and chest congestion, promoting a faster recovery from acute bronchitis.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Gelsemium sempervirens decoctions that help with acute bronchitis.

• Tropacocarpine and gelsemine alkaloids: These alkaloids have anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, which help to reduce inflammation and congestion in the airways, making it easier to breathe and clear out mucus in acute bronchitis.
• Terpenoids: Terpenoids in Gelsemium sempervirens decoctions have antimicrobial properties, which help to combat infections and reduce the severity of acute bronchitis by inhibiting the growth of pathogens that contribute to the condition.
• Flavonoids and phenolic acids: Flavonoids and phenolic acids in Gelsemium sempervirens decoctions have antioxidant properties, which help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the airways, thereby alleviating symptoms of acute bronchitis such as coughing and shortness of breath.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of yellow jessamine used to make decoctions for acute bronchitis.

• Roots: The roots are considered the primary part used for decoctions due to their high concentration of active compounds and traditional use in herbal medicine.
• Leaves: The leaves of Gelsemium sempervirens are also used, as they contain bioactive compounds that help in alleviating symptoms of acute bronchitis.
• Stems: The stems of the plant are sometimes used in decoctions, particularly in traditional Chinese medicine, to treat respiratory issues like bronchitis.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yellow jessamine for acute bronchitis.

1. Harvest 10-20 grams of dried root of gelsemium sempervirens from a trusted supplier.
2. Crush the dried root into smaller pieces to increase its surface area for infusion.
3. Combine the crushed root with 500ml of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
4. Steep the mixture for 15-30 minutes to allow the active constituents to infuse into the water.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

10. Cuscuta epithymum

Dodder decoctions helps with acute bronchitis because it has a natural ability to soothe and calm the respiratory system.

The decoction's antispasmodic properties help to relax bronchial muscles, reducing inflammation and coughing fits associated with bronchitis. Additionally, dodder decoctions contain expectorant compounds that help to loosen and clear mucus from the airways, making it easier to breathe.

As a result, patients suffering from acute bronchitis may experience improved lung function and relief from congestion and discomfort.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cuscuta epithymum decoctions that help with acute bronchitis.

• Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Cuscuta epithymum decoctions may help with acute bronchitis by reducing inflammation and improving the symptoms of respiratory infections.
• Saponins: Saponins are known for their anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, which can help relieve congestion and cough associated with acute bronchitis.
• Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids in Cuscuta epithymum decoctions may have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, helping to combat infections and reduce inflammation in the airways.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of dodder used to make decoctions for acute bronchitis.

• Stems: They are used to make decoctions due to their antispasmodic properties, which help relieve cough and bronchial spasms associated with acute bronchitis.
• Leaves: They are used in decoctions to take advantage of their antiseptic and expectorant properties, helping to reduce inflammation and promote mucus discharge in acute bronchitis.
• Roots: They are used to make decoctions due to their anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and ease respiratory discomfort in acute bronchitis.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dodder for acute bronchitis.

1. Gather 30g of dried cuscuta epithymum root, 2 cups of water, and a non-reactive pot to boil the mixture.
2. Combine the dried root with the water in the pot, bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Filter the decoction using a cheesecloth or a coffee filter to remove the plant material, discard the solids.
4. Measure out 5ml of the cooled decoction into a glass container, store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
5. Take 2 times a day, 10 to 20 drops of the decoction diluted in 1 cup of water, for up to 2 weeks.

What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for acute bronchitis?

The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with acute bronchitis is a blend of thyme, eucalyptus, and ginger.

Thyme contains antimicrobial properties that combat bacterial infections, while eucalyptus helps to reduce inflammation and ease congestion. Ginger's anti-inflammatory properties aid in soothing the throat and chest, reducing coughing and discomfort.

This trio of decoctions can be combined in equal parts and consumed three times a day to alleviate symptoms and promote recovery from acute bronchitis.

What ailments similar to acute bronchitis are treated with herbal decoctions?

Ailments similar to acute bronchitis that are treated with herbal decoctions are respiratory issues such as pneumonia, sinusitis, and asthma.

Other conditions like coughs, colds, and allergies can also be alleviated through the use of these natural remedies.

The soothing properties of herbs like slippery elm, marshmallow root, and mullein help to calm irritated airways, reduce inflammation, and loosen congestion, providing relief from discomfort and promoting overall respiratory health.