Читать книгу Holistic Herbal: A Safe and Practical Guide to Making and Using Herbal Remedies - David Hoffmann - Страница 44

Bronchitis is an infection of the bronchi, the tube that takes air to the lungs. It may describe any mild pulmonary infection, but, as already said, these fine details and differentiations are not crucial when using herbal medicine. The best herbs to use are pectorals that combine expectorant action to clear the sputum with demulcent properties to soothe the inflamed tissue. The best ones include Aniseed, Angelica Root, Blood Root, Coltsfoot, Comfrey Root, Elecampane Root, Flaxseed, Hyssop, Lobelia, Lungwort, Mouse Ear, Mullein, Senega, Thyme, and White Horehound. Consult the Herbal section for more details on each of these, in order to choose the most appropriate herb or combination for your own case.

Anti-microbial herbs are also indicated to fight against any infection. Perhaps the most important one amongst the many available is Garlic, which may be taken in any form, either raw or as Garlic oil in capsules. The antiseptic oil in Garlic is excreted through the lungs and so directly affects any bacteria there. If garlic is rubbed into the feet it can still be smelt on the breath. There is now a new Japanese variety of Garlic which has the properties without the smell! It is available as KYLORIC capsules. Other good anti-microbials for bronchitis are Echinacea, Eucalyptus and Thyme. The antiseptic volatile oils contained in Eucalyptus and Thyme can also be of value in the form of inhalations or baths. For a healing bath in bronchitis and other respiratory infections, take equal parts of Eucalyptus and Thyme leaves to make a total of four or five tablespoonfuls. Pour a litre (2 pints) of boiling water over the mixture and let it stand for thirty minutes. Strain and add the liquid to the bath water. Bath at 38°C (100°F) for about 15 minutes.

In addition to the above it might be helpful to aid the lymphatic system, especially if there are swollen glands. As it would be beneficial to stimulate elimination as well, Cleavers and Poke Root can be recommended.