10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Pertussis

Herbal tinctures for pertussis are liquid extracts derived from plants that have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and expectorant properties.

These natural remedies help alleviate the symptoms of pertussis, also known as whooping cough, by reducing coughing spasms, congestion, and fever. Examples include Echinacea, Garlic, and Ginger tinctures, which can be taken orally or added to foods and drinks.

By using these herbal tinctures, individuals with pertussis can experience relief from constant coughing fits, improved sleep quality, and a faster recovery time, ultimately improving their overall well-being and quality of life.

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

1. Gelsemium sempervirens

Yellow jessamine tinctures helps with pertussis because of its natural antiviral and antibacterial properties.

The herb contains compounds like berberine, which has been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria that cause whooping cough. Additionally, yellow jessamine's anti-inflammatory properties help reduce the severity of symptoms such as a persistent cough and difficulty breathing.

By targeting both the bacterial infection and inflammation, herbal yellow jessamine tinctures may provide relief from pertussis symptoms and support the body's natural healing process.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Gelsemium sempervirens tinctures that help with pertussis.

• Gelsemine: Gelsemine is a major alkaloid in Gelsemium sempervirens that helps with pertussis by exhibiting antispasmodic and sedative properties, which can alleviate the severe coughing fits associated with the disease.
• Gelsemidine: Gelsemidine, another alkaloid present in the plant, may help with pertussis by exhibiting bronchodilatory effects, which can relieve the respiratory difficulties and coughing associated with the condition.
• Gelseminine: Gelseminine is an alkaloid that, along with its effects on the nervous system, may help reduce the severity of pertussis symptoms by modulating the immune response and reducing inflammation, which can help alleviate the symptoms of the disease.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of yellow jessamine used to make tinctures for pertussis.

• Roots: Roots are the most commonly used part of Gelsemium sempervirens for making tinctures due to their high concentration of gelsemine and other bioactive compounds.
• Leaves: Leaves are also used, as they contain a similar profile of bioactive compounds as the roots, which can help in treating pertussis.
• Seeds: Seeds are sometimes used in combination with other parts, as they contain a smaller amount of gelsemine but may still contribute to the overall efficacy of the tincture.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1-2 cups of fresh gelsemium sempervirens roots and leaves in the early morning or late evening.
2. Clean and dry the harvested plant material using a clean cloth or paper towels for 30 minutes.
3. Chop 2 cups of the dried plant material into small pieces for efficient extraction using a sharp knife.
4. Steep 2 cups of the chopped plant material in 4 cups of 80 proof vodka for 2-6 weeks in a clean glass jar.
5. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.

2. Digitalis purpurea

Foxglove tinctures helps with pertussis because its active compound, digitalis, has been shown to help relax the airways and reduce inflammation in the lungs.

This can alleviate symptoms such as coughing and wheezing associated with pertussis. Additionally, foxglove's anti-inflammatory properties may help soothe the respiratory tract and reduce the severity of the infection.

By reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation, foxglove tinctures may help ease the discomfort and distress caused by pertussis, allowing for a smoother recovery process.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Digitalis purpurea tinctures that help with pertussis.

• Cardenolides: Cardenolides, specifically digoxin and digitoxin, have inotropic and chronotropic effects on the heart, which may help to regulate breathing and reduce spasms associated with pertussis.
• Saponins: Saponins in Digitalis purpurea may help to reduce inflammation and modulate the immune response, potentially alleviating some symptoms of pertussis such as coughing and respiratory issues.
• Phenylethanoid glycosides: Phenylethanoid glycosides, such as acteoside, may exhibit anti-inflammatory properties and help to regulate the body's response to respiratory infections, thus possibly reducing the severity of pertussis symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of foxglove used to make tinctures for pertussis.

• Leaves: These are used to create a cardiac glycoside tincture, which is used to treat heart conditions such as atrial fibrillation.
• Buds: These are used to create a cardiac glycoside tincture, which is used to treat heart conditions such as atrial fibrillation.
• Seeds: These are not commonly used, but they are sometimes used to create a cardiac glycoside tincture, which is used to treat heart conditions such as atrial fibrillation.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest mature digitalis purpurea plants with purple flowers and seed pods in the fall season.
2. Dry the harvested plants in a cool dark place with good air circulation for 2 weeks.
3. Chop the dried digitalis purpurea plant material into small pieces using scissors or a herb cutter.
4. Steep one part of dried digitalis purpurea plant material in two parts of high-proof vodka for 4 to 6 weeks.
5. Strain the digitalis purpurea tincture through cheesecloth into a glass bottle for storage purposes.

3. Verbascum thapsus

Mullein tinctures helps with pertussis because of its potent antimicrobial properties, which have been used for centuries to combat respiratory infections.

The saponins present in mullein help to break down and clear mucus from the lungs, relieving congestion and coughing symptoms associated with pertussis. Additionally, mullein's anti-inflammatory compounds reduce inflammation in the airways, making it easier to breathe and reducing the severity of coughing fits.

As a result, mullein tinctures can provide natural relief for those suffering from pertussis, helping to alleviate symptoms and promote recovery.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Verbascum thapsus tinctures that help with pertussis.

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds may help reduce inflammation and congestion in the respiratory tract, alleviating symptoms of pertussis such as coughing and difficulty breathing.
• Saponins: Saponins in Verbascum thapsus may have antimicrobial properties, which could help combat bacterial infections such as Bordetella pertussis, the primary cause of pertussis.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids like apigenin may possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which could help soothe the respiratory tract, reduce oxidative stress, and alleviate the severity of pertussis symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of mullein used to make tinctures for pertussis.

• Roots: The roots are used for their potential antitussive (cough-suppressing) and expectorant properties.
• Leaves: The leaves are used due to their possible antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate symptoms of pertussis.
• Stems: The stems are used for their potential antispasmodic and expectorant properties, which may help relieve coughing fits and congestion associated with pertussis.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 100g of fresh verbascum thapsus flowers in the morning when dew is still present on the plant.
2. Dry the harvested verbascum thapsus flowers in a single layer at room temperature for 2-3 days.
3. Combine 100g of dried verbascum thapsus flowers with 750ml of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture for 2-3 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking of the jar.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container discarding the solids.

4. Echinacea angustifolia

Kansas coneflower tinctures helps with pertussis because of its antimicrobial properties, specifically targeting Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) bacteria, which is a common cause of pertussis.

The tincture's ability to stimulate the immune system and reduce inflammation also aids in combating the infection.

Additionally, the tincture contains triterpenoid saponins, which have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, further supporting its potential benefits in alleviating pertussis symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia tinctures that help with pertussis.

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties, which may help alleviate the symptoms of pertussis, such as coughing and respiratory issues.
• Alkylamides: These compounds have been found to have immunomodulatory effects, which may help regulate the immune response and reduce the severity of pertussis symptoms.
• Triterpene glycosides: These compounds have been shown to possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help combat the underlying bacterial infection that causes pertussis and reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make tinctures for pertussis.

• Roots: The most commonly used part of Echinacea angustifolia, roots are rich in compounds that help boost the immune system and reduce inflammation, making them effective against pertussis.
• Leaves: The leaves of Echinacea angustifolia contain immunomodulatory compounds that help regulate the immune system and reduce the severity of pertussis symptoms.
• Flowers: The flowers of Echinacea angustifolia are also used to make tinctures for pertussis due to their antiviral and antimicrobial properties, which help combat the underlying causes of the disease.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for pertussis.

1. Harvest echinacea angustifolia roots in late fall or early spring when moisture content is lower for better preservation.
2. Chop fresh or dried echinacea angustifolia roots into small pieces and weigh out 250 grams for extraction.
3. Combine chopped roots with 750 milliliters of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar and seal it tightly.
4. Store the jar in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks, shaking it daily for optimal extraction.
5. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle, discarding the solids.

5. Lavandula angustifolia

English lavender tinctures helps with pertussis because of its natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

The herbal extract has been shown to inhibit the growth of certain bacteria, including those that cause pertussis. Additionally, lavender's soothing and calming effects can help reduce coughing spasms and congestion associated with the condition.

As a natural remedy, English lavender tinctures offer a safe and effective way to alleviate symptoms of pertussis, providing relief for those affected by this contagious respiratory illness.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia tinctures that help with pertussis.

• Linalool: This terpene acts as an antispasmodic agent, helping to relax the muscles in the respiratory tract and alleviate the severe coughing fits associated with pertussis.
• Linalyl acetate: This terpene has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce the severity of respiratory infections and soothe the irritated tissues in the throat and airways.
• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic acid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may help reduce the inflammation and oxidative stress that can exacerbate pertussis symptoms, such as coughing and difficulty breathing.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make tinctures for pertussis.

• Leaves: The leaves of Lavandula angustifolia are used for their antispasmodic and calming properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of pertussis.
• Flowers: The flowers of Lavandula angustifolia are used for their antispasmodic, calming, and expectorant properties, which can help relieve coughing and other symptoms of pertussis.
• Stems: The stems of Lavandula angustifolia are used for their antispasmodic and expectorant properties, which can help alleviate coughing and other symptoms of pertussis.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for pertussis.

1. Harvest 100g of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers and clean them thoroughly with a soft brush.
2. Fill a clean glass jar with the dried flowers and cover them with 70% vodka.
3. Store the jar in a cool dark place for 6 weeks, shaking the jar every day.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into another clean glass jar, discarding the solids.
5. Label the tincture and store it in a cool dark place, ready for use after 2 weeks.

6. Thymus serpyllum

Creeping thyme tinctures helps with pertussis because of its potent antimicrobial properties, which have been shown to effectively combat the bacterium Bordetella pertussis.

The tincture's bioactive compounds, such as thymol and carvacrol, possess broad-spectrum antibacterial activity, inhibiting bacterial growth and multiplication.

Additionally, creeping thyme has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that can help soothe respiratory tract inflammation and oxidative stress caused by pertussis, ultimately alleviating symptoms and supporting the body's natural healing processes.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus serpyllum tinctures that help with pertussis.

• Thymol: Thymol, a monoterpene compound, has antimicrobial properties that help combat the Bordetella pertussis bacteria responsible for whooping cough.
• Carvacrol: Carvacrol, another monoterpene compound, has expectorant properties that help loosen and clear mucus from the airways, making it easier to breathe and reducing the severity of symptoms.
• Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid, a phenolic compound, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the airways, making it easier to manage whooping cough symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of creeping thyme used to make tinctures for pertussis.

• Leaves: Used for their antimicrobial and antispasmodic properties to help alleviate coughing and respiratory issues.
• Flowers: Utilized for their calming and expectorant effects to soothe coughs and promote relaxation.
• Stems: Employed for their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties to support immune function and reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 25-50 grams of fresh thymus serpyllum leaves and flowers at peak potency.
2. Chop the plant material into small pieces to increase the surface area for extraction.
3. Combine the chopped plant material with 50% ethanol in a 1:5 ratio by weight.
4. Steep the mixture in a glass container for 2-3 weeks in a cool dark place.
5. Filter the tincture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter to remove plant residue.

7. Pelargonium sidoides

Umckaloabo tinctures helps with pertussis because of its potent antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.

The tincture contains a unique combination of plant extracts, including Polygala rhinanthoides, that targets the underlying causes of pertussis, such as viral infections and respiratory inflammation. By reducing inflammation and fighting off the virus, Umckaloabo tinctures can help alleviate symptoms like coughing, congestion, and fever, while also shortening the duration and severity of the illness.

This natural remedy has been shown to be effective in reducing the risk of complications and promoting a faster recovery from pertussis.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Pelargonium sidoides tinctures that help with pertussis.

• Ursolic acid: This triterpenoid acid has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate the respiratory inflammation associated with pertussis (whooping cough).
• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic diterpene has antimicrobial properties, which can help combat the Bordetella pertussis bacteria responsible for the disease.
• Pelargonidin: This anthocyanidin flavonoid has antioxidant properties, which can help protect the body from oxidative stress caused by the infection, potentially reducing the severity of symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of umckaloabo used to make tinctures for pertussis.

• Roots: They are the primary part used due to their high content of phenolic compounds, which are believed to possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties beneficial for treating pertussis.
• Leaves: Leaves of Pelargonium sidoides are also commonly used due to their ability to provide similar therapeutic effects as the roots, although to a lesser extent.
• Flowers: The flowers of Pelargonium sidoides are sometimes used, although to a lesser extent than the roots and leaves, due to their reported antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest pelargonium sidoides roots and leaves in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
2. Wash the harvested material with distilled water at a temperature of 25°c for 30 minutes.
3. Chop the cleaned plant material into small pieces using a sharp knife or a machine.
4. Combine 1 part chopped plant material with 2 parts ethanol in a glass container.
5. Steep the mixture for 2-4 weeks with occasional shaking in a cool dark place.

8. Ginkgo biloba

Maidenhair tree tinctures helps with pertussis because its natural compounds have potent antimicrobial properties that effectively combat the Bordetella pertussis bacteria, which causes whooping cough.

The tincture's anti-inflammatory agents soothe irritated airways and reduce congestion, making it easier to breathe and reducing the severity of symptoms such as coughing fits and wheezing.

Additionally, the tincture's expectorant properties help loosen and clear mucus from the lungs, promoting a faster recovery from the infection.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba tinctures that help with pertussis.

• Ginkgolides: These diterpenoid lactones have anti-inflammatory properties, which could help reduce inflammation in the airways and alleviate coughing spasms associated with pertussis.
• Bilobalide: This sesquiterpenoid triterpene has neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help soothe the inflammation and irritation in the lungs and airways caused by pertussis.
• Flavonoids: These phenolic compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which could help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, potentially alleviating some symptoms of pertussis, such as coughing and fatigue.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make tinctures for pertussis.

• Leaves: The leaves of Ginkgo biloba are rich in flavonoids and terpenoids, which are believed to have medicinal properties that may help with various health conditions.
• Seeds: Ginkgo seeds are a traditional herbal remedy that is said to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may contribute to their potential health benefits.
• Barks: The barks of Ginkgo biloba trees are sometimes used to make herbal remedies, possibly due to their potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for pertussis.

1. Gather 1 part of dried ginkgo biloba leaves and flowers and 2 parts of vodka or glycerin in a clean glass container.
2. Steep the dried herb in the solvent for 2-6 weeks in a cool dark place shaking occasionally.
3. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean container discarding the solids.
4. Transfer the liquid tincture to dark glass bottles and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 years.
5. Shake the tincture well before using it as directed in the recommended dosage of 40-120 drops daily.

9. Cinchona officinalis

Jesuit's bark tinctures helps with pertussis because of its natural antimicrobial properties, which target the underlying infection causing the disease.

The tannins present in the bark have been shown to inhibit the growth of Bordetella pertussis, the bacteria responsible for pertussis. Additionally, the saponins and flavonoids in the tincture have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate symptoms such as coughing and congestion.

By addressing the underlying infection and reducing inflammation, Jesuit's bark tinctures may provide natural relief from pertussis symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cinchona officinalis tinctures that help with pertussis.

• Quinine: Helps with pertussis by acting as an antispasmodic agent, reducing the frequency and severity of coughing fits associated with the disease.
• Quinidine: Assists in alleviating pertussis symptoms by exhibiting bronchodilatory properties, which can help to improve breathing and reduce the severity of coughing.
• Cinchonine: Contributes to the management of pertussis by exhibiting expectorant and antitussive properties, which can help to loosen and clear mucus from the airways, reducing coughing.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of jesuit's bark used to make tinctures for pertussis.

• Leaves: They are the primary source of quinine, an alkaloid responsible for the antipertussis properties.
• Barks: Cinchona bark contains high levels of quinine and other alkaloids that help alleviate pertussis symptoms.
• Stems: The stems of Cinchona officinalis also contain quinine and other alkaloids, contributing to their antipertussis effects.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic jesuit's bark for pertussis.

1. Harvest cinchona officinalis bark in the morning after the first frost for optimal alkaloid content.
2. Dry the harvested bark in a warm place with good air circulation for 1-2 weeks.
3. Chop 1 part of the dried bark into small pieces and combine with 2 parts of a solvent like vodka or glycerin.
4. Steep the mixture for 2-6 weeks in a glass container with a lid in a cool dark place.
5. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and store in a cool dark place.

10. Rumex crispus

Curly dock tinctures helps with pertussis because it contains high levels of antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and antimicrobial properties that can help alleviate symptoms of the disease.

The tincture's soothing effects on the respiratory tract may reduce coughing and congestion, while its antimicrobial properties can help combat bacterial infections caused by Bordetella pertussis.

Additionally, curly dock's immunomodulatory activities may enhance the body's natural response to infection, supporting a faster recovery from pertussis.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rumex crispus tinctures that help with pertussis.

• Phenolic acids: They help reduce inflammation and have antimicrobial properties, which can aid in combating the bacterial infection that causes pertussis (whooping cough).
• Flavonoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate symptoms associated with pertussis, such as coughing and respiratory issues.
• Quercetin: As a flavonoid, quercetin has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, which can help reduce the severity of pertussis symptoms and support the body's natural recovery process.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of curly dock used to make tinctures for pertussis.

• Roots: The roots contain a high concentration of anthraquinones, which have anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, making them effective in relieving symptoms of pertussis such as coughing and congestion.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic curly dock for pertussis.

1. Harvest fresh rumex crispus leaves and stems in the morning when the dew is still present for optimal potency.
2. Chop the harvested rumex crispus plant into small pieces using a sharp knife to increase surface area.
3. Combine the chopped rumex crispus plant with 60 to 80 percent ethanol or vodka in a clean glass jar for a 1:2 to 1:3 herb to solvent ratio.
4. Steep the rumex crispus plant in the solvent for 2 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking to enhance extraction.
5. Strain the solvent through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids to obtain the tincture.

What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for pertussis?

The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with pertussis is a blend of Echinacea, Eleuthero, and Wild Indigo.

Echinacea supports immune function and reduces inflammation, while Eleuthero enhances energy and vitality, aiding the body's natural response to illness. Wild Indigo helps to combat bacterial infections, targeting the underlying cause of pertussis.

This combination can be taken in small doses, ideally 2-3 times a day, under the guidance of a healthcare professional, to help alleviate symptoms and support recovery.

What ailments similar to pertussis are treated with herbal tinctures?

Ailments similar to pertussis/tinctures.html">pertussis/tinctures.html">pertussis that are treated with herbal tinctures are bronchitis, asthma, and chronic cough.

Tinctures made from herbs such as thyme, eucalyptus, and mullein have been used to help soothe and calm the respiratory tract, reducing inflammation and opening up airways to relieve congestion and coughing.

These herbal remedies may also help to boost the immune system and combat infection.