Updated: Nov 30, 2024
11 Herbal Essential Oils For Bronchitis

Herbal essential oils can be a great help when it comes to bronchitis.
Bronchitis is an inflammation of the airways, and it can be really uncomfortable to deal with. Herbal teas, in particular, can provide relief from bronchitis symptoms. These teas work by loosening and clearing out mucus from the lungs, making it easier to breathe. For example, Eucalyptus globulus oil is often used in herbal teas because it has decongestant properties.
It helps to break down mucus and open up the airways. Thymus vulgaris, also known as thyme, is another herb that's often used in teas for bronchitis. It has antimicrobial properties, which can help to fight off any underlying infections that may be contributing to the condition. Finally, Mentha x piperita, or peppermint oil, can help to calm the airways and reduce inflammation. When you drink a tea made with one or more of these herbs, the active ingredients can be absorbed into the bloodstream and work to soothe and calm the airways.
This can bring a range of benefits, including improved breathing, reduced coughing, and a faster recovery time.
This article explains in detail what are the best herbal teas for bronchitis and wh.
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Table of Contents
1. Eucalyptus globulus

Eucalyptus globulus essential oils contains a high percentage of cineole, a bioactive constituent with decongestant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Cineole helps to reduce swelling and congestion in the airways, making it easier to breathe for people with bronchitis. The oil's expectorant properties also help to loosen and clear mucus from the lungs, reducing coughing and wheezing. Additionally, eucalyptus globulus essential oils has antimicrobial properties, which can help to combat infections that can exacerbate bronchitis.
By using eucalyptus globulus essential oils, people with bronchitis can benefit from its natural ability to relieve symptoms and support respiratory health.
- Gather 1 cup of Eucalyptus globulus leaves and dry them completely in a warm, dry place or using a food dehydrator.
- Use a coffee grinder to crush the dried Eucalyptus leaves into a fine powder.
- Transfer 1 cup of the powder to a glass container and add 2 cups of carrier oil, such as coconut or jojoba oil.
- Heat the mixture in a double boiler or a heat-proof bowl set over a pot of simmering water for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container, and store the essential oil in a dark glass bottle.
2. Thymus vulgaris

Thymus vulgaris essential oils contains thymol, carvacrol, and borneol as its bioactive constituents.
These compounds have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and expectorant properties that help to combat bronchitis. Thymol and carvacrol in Thymus vulgaris essential oils have been shown to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria, such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, that can cause bronchitis. Borneol, on the other hand, helps to thin mucus and make it easier to cough up, relieving congestion and making it simpler to breathe.
By reducing inflammation and killing bacteria, and making mucus thinner, Thymus vulgaris essential oils can help to alleviate symptoms of bronchitis.
- Gather 1 cup of fresh Thymus vulgaris leaves and 1 cup of carrier oil like coconut or olive oil.
- Wash the Thymus vulgaris leaves with water and let them dry.
- In a clean glass jar, combine the dried Thymus vulgaris leaves and the carrier oil. Let it sit in a cool, dark place for 2-3 weeks.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar. Discard the solids.
- Store the Thymus vulgaris essential oil in a small, dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid. Use 5-7 drops of the oil in a diffuser or mix with a carrier oil for topical use to help relieve bronchitis symptoms.
3. Mentha x piperita

Mentha x piperita essential oils contains compounds like menthone, menthol, and limonene, which are known for their decongestant and anti-inflammatory properties.
These properties help to reduce swelling and ease congestion in the airways, making it easier to breathe. The menthol in Mentha x piperita essential oils acts as a bronchodilator, allowing air to reach the lungs more easily. Additionally, the limonene helps to break down mucus, allowing it to be coughed up and cleared from the airways.
By reducing inflammation and promoting drainage, Mentha x piperita essential oils helps to relieve symptoms of bronchitis.
- Gather 1 cup of fresh peppermint leaves (Mentha x piperita). Wash them with water.
- Use a juicer or blender to extract the oil from the peppermint leaves. Get 2 cups of oil.
- Transfer the oil to a saucepan and heat it on low heat (around 150°F) for 2 hours.
- Strain the oil using a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean container. Discard the solids.
- Store the essential oil in a dark glass bottle with a tight lid. Use 5-7 drops per day to help relieve bronchitis symptoms.
4. Rosmarinus officinalis

Rosmarinus officinalis essential oils contains rosinic acid, bornyl acetate, and camphor as its bioactive constituents.
These compounds give the oil its anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, which can help relieve bronchitis symptoms. Camphor, in particular, has a decongestant effect, helping to clear mucus from the airways and reduce congestion. Bornyl acetate has antispasmodic properties, which can help calm and relax the airway muscles, making breathing easier.
The expectorant properties of the oil help bring up mucus and other debris from the lungs, making it easier to cough up and recover from bronchitis.
- Harvest fresh Rosmarinus officinalis leaves and flowers, and dry them in a warm, dark place for 1-2 weeks.
- Grind 1 cup of dried leaves and flowers into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle.
- Add 2 cups of carrier oil (like jojoba or sweet almond oil) to the powder in a glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool, dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar every day, then strain it through cheesecloth into another jar.
- Filter the oil through a coffee filter into a dark glass bottle, and store it in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months.
5. Zingiber officinale

Zingiber officinale essential oils contains the bioactive constituents gingerol and shogaol.
These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help to reduce swelling and fight off infections in the lungs. The oils' warming and expectorant properties also help to loosen and clear mucus from the airways, making it easier to breathe. Additionally, ginger's analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties help to alleviate cough and chest pain associated with bronchitis.
By reducing inflammation, fighting off infections, and loosening mucus, Zingiber officinale essential oils can help to relieve bronchitis symptoms.
- Gather 500g of fresh Zingiber officinale roots and wash them under running water.
- Dry the roots in a single layer, away from direct sunlight, for 3-5 days.
- Grind the dried roots into a fine powder using a spice grinder or mortar.
- Mix 250g of the powdered root with 1 cup of carrier oil (such as coconut or olive oil) in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar every day, and then strain and bottle the essential oil.
6. Cymbopogon citratus

Cymbopogon citratus essential oils contains limonene, geraniol, and linalool as its active constituents.
These compounds have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and expectorant properties. Limonene helps to loosen and clear mucus from the lungs, while geraniol reduces inflammation and germs that cause bronchitis. Linalool has a calming effect, which helps to ease coughing and soothe the respiratory tract.
The combination of these properties makes Cymbopogon citratus essential oils effective in relieving symptoms of bronchitis.
- Gather 1 cup of fresh Cymbopogon citratus leaves and 1 cup of water in a pot.
- Boil the water, then reduce heat and add the Cymbopogon citratus leaves. Let it steep for 30 minutes.
- Strain the mixture using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl. Discard the solids.
- Transfer the liquid to a clean glass bottle and let it cool. Cover the bottle with a lid.
- To make the essential oil, place the liquid in a dark glass bottle and add 1 tablespoon of carrier oil, like coconut or olive oil. Shake the bottle well to mix.
7. Lavandula angustifolia

Lavandula angustifolia essential oils contains linalool, linalyl acetate, and camphor as its primary bioactive constituents.
These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help to reduce inflammation and combat infection in the airways. The antispasmodic properties of linalool can also help to relax the muscles in the bronchi and trachea, making it easier to breathe. Furthermore, the decongestant properties of camphor can help to clear mucus from the airways, making it easier to expel and relieving congestion.
The combination of these properties in Lavandula angustifolia essential oils can help to alleviate symptoms of bronchitis, such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
- Gather 1 cup of fresh Lavandula angustifolia flowers and 1 cup of water in a saucepan.
- Heat the water to 100°F (38°C) and add the flowers. Let it steep for 4-6 hours or overnight.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass container.
- Add 1 tablespoon of carrier oil (like jojoba or sweet almond oil) to the strained liquid and stir well.
- Store the essential oil in a dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid in a cool, dry place.
8. Echinacea purpurea

Echinacea purpurea essential oils contains bioactive constituents like alkylamides, caffeic acid, and rosmarinic acid.
These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce swelling and fight off free radicals in the lungs. The alkylamides in Echinacea purpurea essential oils stimulate the immune system, increasing the production of white blood cells to combat bronchitis-causing pathogens. The caffeic acid and rosmarinic acid in this oil have a decongestant effect, helping to clear mucus from the airways and ease congestion.
By reducing inflammation and promoting drainage, Echinacea purpurea essential oils can help alleviate the symptoms of bronchitis.
- Gather 2 cups of fresh Echinacea purpurea flowers and 2 cups of fresh leaves. Wash them with clean water.
- Combine the flowers and leaves in a large bowl. Use a tablespoon of vodka to cover them. Let it sit for 2 hours.
- After 2 hours, strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass jar. Discard the solids.
- Add 2 cups of carrier oil (like jojoba oil) to the jar. Stir well. Store it in a cool, dark place for 2 weeks, shaking the jar every day.
- After 2 weeks, strain the mixture again and discard the solids. Your Echinacea purpurea essential oil is now ready to use for bronchitis. Use 5-7 drops in a diffuser or mix with a carrier oil for topical use.
9. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Glycyrrhiza glabra essential oils contains a compound called glycyrrhizin, a triterpenoid saponin.
This compound has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which can help to reduce inflammation and relieve spasms in the bronchial tubes. Glycyrrhizin also has a soothing effect on the mucous membranes, helping to calm coughs and promote expectoration. The essential oil's expectorant properties help to loosen and clear mucus from the airways, making it easier to breathe.
The combination of glycyrrhizin's anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties makes Glycyrrhiza glabra essential oils a useful treatment for bronchitis symptoms.
- Gather 2 cups of dried Glycyrrhiza glabra roots, a glass jar, and a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil.
- Combine 2 tablespoons of dried Glycyrrhiza glabra roots with 1 cup of carrier oil in the glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool, dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar every day.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another container, discarding the solids.
- Bottle the essential oil and store it in a cool, dark place. Use 5-7 drops of the oil in a diffuser or mix with a carrier oil for topical use.
10. Salvia officinalis

Salvia officinalis essential oils contains rosmarinic acid, borneol, and camphor as its bioactive constituents.
These compounds have anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, which help to reduce inflammation and promote the removal of mucus in the airways. The camphor content in Salvia officinalis essential oils helps to open up airways and relieve congestion, making it easier to breathe. The antiseptic properties of borneol also help to prevent infections that can worsen bronchitis symptoms.
By reducing inflammation and promoting mucus removal, Salvia officinalis essential oils can help to alleviate bronchitis symptoms and promote recovery.
- Gather 250g of fresh Salvia officinalis leaves and 1 cup of water in a saucepan.
- Heat the water in the saucepan to 100°C (212°F) for 10 minutes.
- Add the fresh Salvia officinalis leaves to a glass jar and pour the hot water over them.
- Let the mixture steep for 2-3 hours, then strain the liquid using a cheesecloth or a coffee filter.
- Combine the strained liquid with 2 tablespoons of a carrier oil (like jojoba or sweet almond oil) and store in a dark glass bottle.
11. Sambucus nigra

Sambucus nigra essential oils contains bioactive constituents like flavonoids, sesquiterpenes, and phenolic acids.
These compounds have anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, which help relieve bronchitis symptoms. The flavonoids in Sambucus nigra essential oils, such as quercetin and kaempferol, reduce inflammation in the airways, making it easier to breathe. The sesquiterpenes, like beta-sitosterol, help loosen and clear mucus from the lungs, reducing congestion.
The phenolic acids, including ferulic acid and sinapic acid, have antimicrobial properties that help combat infections causing bronchitis.
- Gather 1 cup of Sambucus nigra flowers, a 1-litre carrier oil (like coconut or olive oil), a clean glass jar, and a cheesecloth or coffee filter.
- Combine the Sambucus nigra flowers and carrier oil in the glass jar. Stir gently to mix.
- Place the jar in a sunny spot for 2-3 weeks, shaking it daily. This allows the oil to infuse with the flower's properties.
- Strain the mixture through the cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass jar. Discard the solids.
- Store the Sambucus nigra essential oil in a cool, dark place. Use it as needed for bronchitis relief, following a healthcare professional's guidance.
FAQ
Can drinking herbal tea prevent bronchitis from forming?
Drinking herbal tea may help prevent bronchitis from forming.
Some herbal teas, like thyme and eucalyptus, contain ingredients that can help soothe the lungs and reduce inflammation. These teas may also help fight off infections that can cause bronchitis.
Drinking them regularly could make your lungs stronger and more resistant to illness.
Is it safe to consume herbal teas for bronchitis every day?
Consuming herbal teas for bronchitis daily is generally safe, but be cautious.
Some teas, like slippery elm and thyme, may interact with medications. Also, certain teas can cause allergic reactions or stomach problems. Start with small amounts and observe how your body reacts.
If you experience issues, adjust your consumption or try alternative teas.
How long does it take for herbal teas to show results in bronchitis?
Herbal teas can help relieve bronchitis symptoms, but it may take a few days to notice results.
Some people see improvement in coughing and congestion within 24 to 48 hours, while others may take 3 to 5 days to feel better.
It's essential to drink herbal teas regularly for consistent relief.
What time of day is best to drink herbal tea for bronchitis?
Drinking herbal tea for bronchitis is best when your body needs a boost.
A warm cup in the morning, as soon as you wake up, can help loosen mucus and ease congestion.
The steam from the tea can also help clear your airways, making it easier to breathe.
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