This winter, I’ve been receiving many consultations related to a lingering bronchial cough that sticks around for weeks after other cold symptoms have passed.
So today I’ll be talking about bronchial cough and how plants—especially soothing demulcents—can come to the rescue.
Bronchial cough usually persists when the bronchi are inflamed or irritated, which leads to that dry, tickly cough, or even phlegmy cough that just won’t seem to stop. The truth is, until the “stuck” phlegm in the lower airways gets loosened and cleared out, the cough reflex will stay active—after all, the main purpose of coughing is to expel the mucus produced by our heroic immune system fighting off bold viruses and bacteria.
So, a cough often begins as a dry cough, without phlegm. This is the phase when we can support our respiratory system with herbs that help to break up, thin, and loosen mucus. Once that happens, we begin to cough less and expel more phlegm. The more phlegm we get out, the sooner the bronchi are cleared, and the sooner we get rid of that annoying cough.
That being said: the act of coughing is actually a beneficial process to cleanse the airways.
When is coughing not helpful? When the cause is something else entirely—like mucosal irritation from acid reflux or other triggers. This would be a dry, persistent cough that doesn’t expel anything and simply wears you out.
If you’ve had a dry cough that lasts more than three weeks, it’s best to visit a doctor to explore the underlying causes.
What Can We Do to Help a Bronchial Cough?
Let’s focus on demulcents (which coat and soothe the mucous membranes) along with a few other supportive herbs.
- Demulcents Your Mucosal Heroes, these herbs are rich in mucilage, which forms a protective barrier and calms irritation.
- Marshmallow root (Althaea officinalis): The original demulcent! Marshmallow root is excellent for soothing inflamed bronchial passages. Prepare a cold infusion by soaking the root overnight for a gentle tea that coats the throat.
- Slippery elm (Ulmus rubra): Known for its thick and sticky tea, slippery elm can reduce the urge to cough by calming irritation in the throat and airways. Try mixing one teaspoon of the powder into warm water or honey.
- Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) Sweet and soothing, licorice root has demulcent, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. It’s especially helpful for dry, painful coughs(Avoid if you have high blood pressure).
- Expectorants Help Your Body Eliminate Mucus If your cough is productive (with mucus), these herbs gently support the body’s cleansing process.
- Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)A fantastic antimicrobial herb with expectorant properties. Thyme tea or steam inhalation can relieve congestion and clear the airways.
- Elecampane (Inula helenium)An underrated herb for persistent bronchial issues. Calming and expectorant, it’s wonderful for loosening mucus. One of my favorite lung tonics.
- Mullein leaf (Verbascum thapsus)Gentle yet effective, mullein soothes inflammation and promotes mucus release. A triple-action respiratory ally!
- Anti-inflammatory herbsThese help reduce inflammation in the bronchi, supporting overall lung health.
- Turmeric (Curcuma longa):With powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, turmeric is great for easing irritation. Add a bit to warm milk or tea with a pinch of black pepper for better absorption.
- Ginger (Zingiber officinale)Warming and soothing, ginger helps reduce inflammation and irritation in the throat and chest.
The Ideal Strategy: to blend these medicinal herbs to combine their actions and::
- Soothe irritation and inflammation caused by constant coughing
- Thin mucus so it can be expelled more easily, helping to clear pathogens from the airways
- Ultimately, get rid of that stubborn cough and enjoy clear, healthy lungs again
Bronchial Cough Herbal Tea Blend
- 1 part marshmallow root (demulcent)
- 1 part mullein leaf (expectorant, demulcent)
- ½ part licorice root (soothing and sweet)
- ½ part thyme (antimicrobial, expectorant)
- Optional: a pinch of cinnamon or ginger to make your infusion sweeter, more anti-inflammatory, or just more interesting
Boil the roots (marshmallow and licorice) for 10 minutes. Turn off the heat and add mullein and thyme. Cover and let steep for another 10 minutes. Strain and drink three cups per day.
You can make about 750 ml and store it in a thermos to have your servings ready throughout the day.
If your cough is especially exhausting, add a teaspoon of slippery elm powder to this infusion for a real herbal power boost!
A Few Extra Tips
- Honey: Raw honey is a natural demulcent and antimicrobial. It’s fantastic for bronchial cough. Add it to your teas or take a spoonful directly.
- Steam inhalation: Add a few drops of eucalyptus or thyme essential oil to a bowl of hot water. Cover your head with a towel and inhale deeply. This helps open up the airways and loosen mucus.
- Stay hydrated: Warm water with lemon and honey can do wonders for your throat and bronchial passages.
