By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Acute Bronchitis
Herbal tinctures for acute bronchitis are concentrated plant extracts used to alleviate symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath associated with acute bronchitis.
These tinctures help by reducing inflammation, loosening mucus, and soothing the respiratory tract. Examples of herbal tinctures that can aid in acute bronchitis include Thyme, Ginger, and Echinacea, which have natural anti-inflammatory properties and antimicrobial effects.
By using these tinctures, individuals with acute bronchitis can experience relief from discomfort, improved breathing, and a faster recovery, ultimately improving their overall quality of life.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for acute bronchitis, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Echinacea purpurea
- 2. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 3. Euphrasia officinalis
- 4. Thymus vulgaris
- 5. Viscum album
- 6. Sambucus nigra
- 7. Achillea millefolium
- 8. Taraxacum officinale
- 9. Gelsemium sempervirens
- 10. Cuscuta epithymum
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for acute bronchitis?
- What ailments similar to acute bronchitis are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Echinacea purpurea
Purple coneflower tinctures helps with acute bronchitis because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The herb, Echinacea purpurea, has been traditionally used to soothe respiratory issues by reducing inflammation in the airways and fighting off bacterial and viral infections that can cause bronchitis.
By taking a dose of purple coneflower tincture, individuals with acute bronchitis may experience relief from symptoms such as coughing, congestion, and wheezing, allowing for faster recovery and improved overall health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea tinctures that help with acute bronchitis.
- Icariin: A flavonoid glycoside in Echinacea, icariin has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the airways and alleviate symptoms of acute bronchitis.
- Cichoric acid: A caffeic acid derivative found in Echinacea, cichoric acid has been demonstrated to possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities, which can help combat infections and reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract.
- Alkylamides: These alkaloid compounds in Echinacea have been shown to possess immunomodulatory effects, enhancing the body's natural defenses and potentially helping to reduce the severity and duration of acute bronchitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make tinctures for acute bronchitis.
- Roots: They contain high levels of echinacosides, which are believed to have immunomodulatory effects that help alleviate symptoms of acute bronchitis.
- Leaves: They contain volatile oils and flavonoids, which may help reduce inflammation and alleviate coughs associated with acute bronchitis.
- Flowers: They contain flavonoids, alkylamides, and other compounds that are thought to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making them useful for soothing respiratory tract issues.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for acute bronchitis.
- Harvest 1 part of echinacea purpurea roots and 2 parts of flowers on a dry sunny day.
- Dry the plant material in a single layer at 25-30 degrees celsius for 2 weeks.
- Combine 1 part of dried plant material with 2 parts of 40% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks shaking the jar daily.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.
2. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice tinctures helps with acute bronchitis because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and mucus production in the airways.
The glycyrrhizin present in licorice root has been shown to suppress the replication of respiratory viruses, reducing the severity of symptoms such as coughing and congestion. Additionally, licorice tinctures can soothe irritated mucous membranes, making it easier to breathe and expel mucus, providing relief from acute bronchitis symptoms.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to alleviate respiratory issues, making it a popular choice for acute bronchitis treatment.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures that help with acute bronchitis.
- Glycyrrhizin: This triterpene saponin helps by reducing inflammation and soothing the mucous membranes in the respiratory tract, alleviating symptoms of acute bronchitis such as coughing and congestion.
- Licoricidin: A phenolic compound, licoricidin exhibits anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, which may help in reducing the severity and duration of acute bronchitis by modulating the body's immune response.
- Liquiritigenin: A flavonoid compound, liquiritigenin has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help in protecting the respiratory tract from oxidative stress and inflammation caused by acute bronchitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make tinctures for acute bronchitis.
- Roots: They are the primary part used due to their high concentration of glycyrrhizin, a compound with anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties.
- Leaves: They are used for their antiseptic and antimicrobial properties, which help to reduce inflammation and combat bacterial infections associated with acute bronchitis.
- Barks: They are used for their anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, which help to soothe the respiratory tract and facilitate the clearance of mucus.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for acute bronchitis.
- Harvest 100g of dried roots of glycyrrhiza glabra that have been dried for at least 2 weeks.
- Chop the roots into small pieces to increase their surface area for better solvent penetration.
- Mix the chopped roots with 500ml of 80 proof ethanol in a clean glass container.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks to allow for proper extraction.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.
3. Euphrasia officinalis
Eyebright tinctures helps with acute bronchitis because of its natural anti-inflammatory and decongestant properties.
The herb's bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids and glycosides, work to reduce inflammation in the airways, making it easier for mucus to drain out, alleviating congestion and coughing. Additionally, eyebright's expectorant properties help loosen and clear excess mucus, allowing for easier breathing and quicker recovery from acute bronchitis.
Its natural and non-invasive approach makes it a popular remedy for soothing irritated airways and promoting overall respiratory health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Euphrasia officinalis tinctures that help with acute bronchitis.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce inflammation in the airways, making it easier to breathe for people with acute bronchitis.
- Phenylethanoid glycosides: These compounds exhibit antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, which help combat infections and reduce oxidative stress in the respiratory tract, alleviating symptoms of acute bronchitis.
- Flavonoids: These compounds possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce inflammation, combat infections, and alleviate symptoms of acute bronchitis, such as coughing and congestion.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of eyebright used to make tinctures for acute bronchitis.
- Leaves: Euphrasia officinalis leaves are used to make tinctures for acute bronchitis due to their high content of bioactive compounds that help to soothe and calm the respiratory system.
- Flowers: Euphrasia officinalis flowers are used to make tinctures for acute bronchitis due to their anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, which help to relieve congestion and cough.
- Roots: Euphrasia officinalis roots are used to make tinctures for acute bronchitis due to their antimicrobial and antiviral properties, which help to fight off underlying infections and promote healing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic eyebright for acute bronchitis.
- Harvest the fresh euphrasia officinalis flowers and leaves in the early morning after the dew has evaporated for 300g.
- Clean and chop the harvested euphrasia officinalis plant material into small pieces for 30 minutes.
- Combine the chopped euphrasia officinalis with 70% ethanol in a 1:3 ratio by weight in a clean glass jar for 2 weeks.
- Shake the jar with the euphrasia officinalis and ethanol mixture daily for 2 weeks.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.
4. Thymus vulgaris
Thyme tinctures helps with acute bronchitis because of its natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
The thymol content in the herb has been shown to help combat bacterial infections, reducing inflammation and congestion in the lungs and airways.
By dissolving the tincture under the tongue or mixing it with water, the active compounds are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream, providing rapid relief from symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus vulgaris tinctures that help with acute bronchitis.
- Thymol: Thymol is a phenolic monoterpene that acts as an antimicrobial agent, helping to reduce the bacterial load in the respiratory tract and alleviate symptoms of acute bronchitis.
- Carvacrol: Carvacrol, another phenolic monoterpene, exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and congestion in the airways, making it easier to breathe.
- Bornyl acetate: Bornyl acetate is a terpene that has expectorant properties, helping to loosen and clear mucus from the lungs, making it easier to cough up and relieve congestion associated with acute bronchitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make tinctures for acute bronchitis.
- Leaves: Used due to their high concentration of thymol, a natural antiseptic and expectorant that helps to relieve bronchitis symptoms.
- Stems: Utilized for their antimicrobial properties, which aid in fighting off infections and reducing inflammation associated with acute bronchitis.
- Buds: Employed for their ability to stimulate the immune system and promote the expulsion of mucus, providing relief from bronchitis symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme for acute bronchitis.
- Harvest 1 part fresh leaves and flowers of thymus vulgaris in the morning when they are at their peak potency.
- Cleanse the harvested plant material by gently swishing it in a bowl of water to remove impurities.
- Combine the 1 part plant material with 2 parts vodka in a clean glass jar to create a 50 1 tincture.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 6 weeks shaking the jar every day to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into another clean glass bottle discarding the solids and store the tincture in a cool dark place.
5. Viscum album
Mistletoe tinctures helps with acute bronchitis because of its potent antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.
The herb's active compounds, such as viscotoxins and phenolic acids, work to reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract, ease congestion, and loosen mucus, making it easier to expel.
Additionally, mistletoe tinctures' antimicrobial effects help combat the underlying infection, promoting a faster recovery from acute bronchitis symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Viscum album tinctures that help with acute bronchitis.
- Ligustrazine: It helps to relax the airway muscles and reduce inflammation, making it easier to breathe in patients with acute bronchitis.
- Viscumin: As an alkaloid, it has immunomodulatory effects, which can help to stimulate the immune system to fight off infections causing acute bronchitis.
- Iridoid glucosides: They have anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce swelling and congestion in the airways, alleviating symptoms of acute bronchitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of mistletoe used to make tinctures for acute bronchitis.
- Leaves: They are rich in saponins, which have anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties to help ease bronchitis symptoms.
- Stems: The stems of Viscum album contain a higher concentration of saponins and other bioactive compounds, making them a popular choice for tinctures.
- Buds: The buds of the plant are believed to have a more concentrated effect, as they contain a higher amount of saponins and other medicinal compounds compared to other parts of the plant.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic mistletoe for acute bronchitis.
- Harvest 100g of fresh viscum album at the end of winter or early spring when the sap is rising slowly.
- Chop the herb into small pieces using a sharp knife to release the essential oils and resin.
- Combine the chopped herb with 500ml of high-proof vodka or a neutral grain spirit in a clean glass jar.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking the jar every day to help the extraction process.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids and label the tincture.
6. Sambucus nigra
Elder tinctures helps with acute bronchitis because it possesses potent antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and expectorant properties.
The bioactive compounds in elder flowers, such as flavonoids and terpenes, work to reduce inflammation and congestion in the airways, making it easier to breathe.
Additionally, the tincture's natural mucolytic agents help break down mucus, allowing for efficient clearance and relief from coughing fits and wheezing.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sambucus nigra tinctures that help with acute bronchitis.
- Isothiocyanates: These compounds have antimicrobial properties, which help reduce the infection causing acute bronchitis by inhibiting the growth of pathogens such as influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
- Flavonoids: As powerful antioxidants, flavonoids help reduce inflammation and combat oxidative stress in the respiratory tract, alleviating symptoms of acute bronchitis.
- Triterpenes: Triterpenes have anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, which help reduce congestion and ease coughing in acute bronchitis, promoting easier mucus expulsion from the lungs.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of elder used to make tinctures for acute bronchitis.
- Flowers: They contain a high concentration of sambunigrin, which is converted to sambucine during the drying process, making it effective against acute bronchitis.
- Leaves: They possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate symptoms of acute bronchitis.
- Fruits: Also known as elderberries, they have antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties that help combat the underlying viral infection causing acute bronchitis.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic elder for acute bronchitis.
- Gather sambucus nigra flowers and leaves in quantity of 50% of total volume to be infused.
- Combine 100g of sambucus nigra plant material with 500ml of 35% ethanol in a clean glass container.
- Store the container in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks to allow for maceration.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container.
- Transfer the tincture to glass bottles and store them in the dark at room temperature.
7. Achillea millefolium
Yarrow tinctures helps with acute bronchitis because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm irritated airways.
The tannins present in yarrow extract help to reduce swelling and congestion in the lungs, allowing for easier breathing and relief from coughing. Additionally, yarrow's expectorant properties facilitate the removal of excess mucus, further alleviating symptoms of bronchitis.
By targeting the root causes of acute bronchitis, herbal yarrow tinctures provide a natural and effective means of managing this respiratory condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Achillea millefolium tinctures that help with acute bronchitis.
- Achillin: Achillin is a sesquiterpene lactone that has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the airways and alleviate symptoms of acute bronchitis.
- Caffeic acid: Caffeic acid is a phenolic compound that has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help protect the lungs from oxidative stress and inflammation, and alleviate symptoms of acute bronchitis.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid is a phenolic compound that has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the airways, eliminate infection, and alleviate symptoms of acute bronchitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of yarrow used to make tinctures for acute bronchitis.
- Leaves: Rich in volatile oils and flavonoids, making them effective in soothing respiratory issues.
- Flowers: High in essential oils and flavonoids, which help to reduce inflammation and ease bronchial spasms.
- Roots: Contain anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which can help to calm bronchial congestion.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yarrow for acute bronchitis.
- Harvest achillea millefolium flowers and leaves in abundance at the peak of their potency in summer.
- Dry the harvested plant material thoroughly in a warm place for at least 2 weeks.
- Combine 1 part dried achillea millefolium with 2 parts 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place and shake it daily for 2 to 3 weeks.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle to yield the tincture.
8. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion tinctures helps with acute bronchitis because of its anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties.
The plant's flavonoids, taraxasterol, and sesquiterpenes help to reduce inflammation in the airways, soothing irritated tissues and relaxing constricted bronchi. Additionally, dandelion's natural mucilage content coats and lubricates the throat and respiratory tract, making it easier to expel mucus and promote healthy drainage.
By alleviating congestion and reducing inflammation, herbal dandelion tinctures can provide quick relief from acute bronchitis symptoms, allowing for a faster recovery.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale tinctures that help with acute bronchitis.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds help with acute bronchitis by exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties, reducing swelling and congestion in the airways.
- Taraxasterol: This triterpene saponin has been shown to have expectorant and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to thin mucus and reduce coughing associated with acute bronchitis.
- Polyphenols: These antioxidants help protect the lungs from oxidative stress and inflammation caused by respiratory viruses, promoting healing and reducing symptoms of acute bronchitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make tinctures for acute bronchitis.
- Leaves: Leaves are used due to their expectorant properties, which help loosen and clear mucus from the airways.
- Roots: Roots are used for their anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce inflammation and irritation in the bronchial tubes.
- Flowers: Flowers are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which help ease coughing and reduce inflammation in the airways.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for acute bronchitis.
- Harvest taraxacum officinale roots and leaves in late spring or early summer when the plant is in full bloom.
- Wash the taraxacum officinale roots and leaves with cold water to remove any impurities or debris.
- Chop the taraxacum officinale roots and leaves into small pieces using a sharp knife or herb cutter.
- Combine 250 grams of chopped taraxacum officinale with 500 milliliters of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the jar every day.
9. Gelsemium sempervirens
Yellow jessamine tinctures helps with acute bronchitis because it possesses anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce the inflammation in the airways, allowing for easier breathing.
The herb's expectorant properties also help to loosen and clear mucus from the lungs, making it easier to cough up and expel.
Additionally, yellow jessamine has natural antiviral and antibacterial compounds that can help to combat the underlying infection causing the bronchitis, reducing its severity and duration.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Gelsemium sempervirens tinctures that help with acute bronchitis.
- Gelsemine: It is an indole alkaloid that helps alleviate symptoms of acute bronchitis by reducing inflammation and modulating the immune response.
- Gelseminine: It is a related alkaloid that also helps with acute bronchitis by exhibiting bronchodilatory and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help relieve congestion and ease breathing.
- Flavonoids: Specifically, kaempferol, a type of flavonoid found in Gelsemium sempervirens, may help with acute bronchitis by exhibiting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the airways.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of yellow jessamine used to make tinctures for acute bronchitis.
- Roots: The roots of Gelsemium sempervirens are the most commonly used part in making tinctures for acute bronchitis due to their high content of alkaloids, particularly gelsemine.
- Leaves: The leaves are also used to make tinctures for acute bronchitis as they contain similar alkaloids to the roots, providing similar therapeutic effects.
- Barks: The barks are used to make tinctures for acute bronchitis as they contain gelsemine and other alkaloids that help in alleviating respiratory symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yellow jessamine for acute bronchitis.
- Harvest 100 grams of fresh leaves and stems of gelsemium sempervirens in the morning.
- Chop the material into small pieces and combine with 500 milliliters of 80 proof ethanol.
- Store the mixture in a glass jar and allow it to steep in a cool dark place for 2 weeks.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container discarding the solids.
- Transfer the tincture to a dark glass bottle and store it in a cool dark place for 2 months.
10. Cuscuta epithymum
Dodder tinctures helps with acute bronchitis because of its potent anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties.
The plant's constituents, such as flavonoids and lignans, help to reduce inflammation in the airways, making it easier to breathe. Additionally, dodder tincture's mucilaginous properties help to soothe and calm the bronchi, allowing for smoother passage of mucus and easier elimination of trapped pathogens.
This natural remedy has been traditionally used to alleviate congestion, coughing, and chest tightness associated with acute bronchitis, promoting faster recovery and reduced symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cuscuta epithymum tinctures that help with acute bronchitis.
- Saponins: Saponins in Cuscuta epithymum tinctures have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce inflammation in the airways and alleviate symptoms of acute bronchitis.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in Cuscuta epithymum tinctures exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help protect the lungs from oxidative stress and inflammation caused by acute bronchitis.
- Alkaloids: Alkaloids in Cuscuta epithymum tinctures have expectorant properties, which 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 dodder used to make tinctures for acute bronchitis.
- Stems: Stems of Cuscuta species are used to make tinctures due to their reported anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of bronchitis.
- Leaves: Leaves of Cuscuta species are used in herbal remedies for their potential antiviral and antibacterial properties, which can aid in the treatment of acute bronchitis.
- Roots: Roots of Cuscuta species are used in traditional medicine for their reported expectorant properties, which can help relieve congestion and cough associated with acute bronchitis.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dodder for acute bronchitis.
- Harvest cuscuta epithymum roots and leaves at dawn when the dew is still present on the plant surface.
- Dry the harvested cuscuta epithymum roots and leaves in a low-temperature oven at 30 degrees celsius for 24 hours.
- Combine 100 grams of dried cuscuta epithymum with 500 milliliters of vodka in a clean glass container.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 14 days with occasional gentle shaking to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth and bottle it in a dark glass container with a tight-fitting lid for storage.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for acute bronchitis?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with acute bronchitis is a blend of Echinacea, Thyme, and Ginger.
Echinacea enhances the immune system, while Thyme's antimicrobial properties combat bacterial infections. Ginger helps reduce inflammation, soothes the throat, and eases congestion. A standard dosage is to combine 20-30 drops of each tincture in water, three to four times a day.
This synergistic blend can help alleviate symptoms, promote recovery, and reduce the risk of complications from acute bronchitis.
What ailments similar to acute bronchitis are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to acute bronchitis that are treated with herbal tinctures are coughs and respiratory issues such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, and pneumonia.
Herbal tinctures like Echinacea, Thyme, and Goldenseal have antiviral and antibacterial properties that help soothe irritated airways, reduce inflammation, and combat infection.
They may also be used to treat other conditions like sinusitis, tonsillitis, and laryngitis, which share similar symptoms with acute bronchitis.