Bronchitis can be quite persistent. A constant cough robs you of sleep, and often a stuffy nose joins the party. Gentle relief is needed now. And as is so often the case in life, you can turn to Grandma's experience and advice: These tried-and-tested, natural home remedies can support the body during a bout of bronchitis.
Initially dry and scratchy, later progressing to a cough with phlegm – bronchitis often brings with it a veritable "coughing concert." Bronchitis is caused by inflammation of the mucous membranes in the bronchi, which impairs the function of the cilia. This significantly slows down or even completely prevents the removal of mucus and pathogens. The result: more mucus is produced, which accumulates and triggers the urge to cough. But how do you get rid of it? There's no miracle cure, of course. However, the following home remedies can provide valuable support in treating and alleviating the symptoms.
Drink enough fluids
First things first: drink, drink, drink. This helps to moisturize the mucous membranes – and drinking enough fluids also loosens mucus, making it easier to cough up. Still water and unsweetened teas are best. Certain herbal teas, due to their medicinal plant content, are considered particularly soothing home remedies for bronchitis. Herbal cough medicines, such as Prospan with its special ivy extract EA 575, also provide relief from colds with coughs and acute bronchitis.
Inhale
It couldn't be simpler – this home remedy for bronchitis requires very little: just a bowl of hot water and a towel. Inhaling the steam draws it deep into the airways, helping to moisturize them, loosen mucus, and clear the bronchi. To enhance the effect, you can cover your head with a towel to trap the steam. Breathe deeply in and out for 10 to 15 minutes, repeating once or twice a day if needed.
Warm compresses and chest wraps
Heat can be particularly soothing for bronchitis: it stimulates blood circulation and loosens a stubborn cough. The simplest option is to place a warm cherry pit pillow or a hot water bottle on the chest or upper back. Chest compresses have also proven effective as a home remedy for coughs and bronchitis. To make one, soak a cloth in hot water, wring it out lightly, and then place it on the chest. Wrap another, dry cloth over it to retain the heat longer. Then simply relax – after 20 to 30 minutes, the chest compress can be removed.
Chest rubs
A classic home remedy for bronchitis and colds is chest rubbing. Special ointments or oils, often containing eucalyptus extract, are gently massaged onto the chest or upper back. This is intended to promote blood circulation and soothe the airways , which can provide relief, especially at night.