Your Health: Natural remedies for winter cough

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Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) has both anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties. It helps relieve bronchial spasms as well as clearing mucus from the lungs. We are fortunate in New Zealand to have access to very potent and pure Central Otago thyme. It is officially endorsed in European countries as a treatment for many types of cough, spastic bronchitis, catarrh, asthma and to support weak lungs in emphysema.
Plantain (Plantago lanceolata) has mild antibiotic properties and helps to expel excess phlegm that is common with bronchitis. It has anti-inflammatory and anti-irritant properties that allow it to soothe inflamed and painful mucous membranes in the respiratory tract. As well as being suited to acute bronchitis, it is also excellent for irritating dry coughs that are unproductive.
Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis): Despite sharing a name with the common confectionery, the medicinal plant version offers superior benefits to your health. This is the remedy to choose where a soothing, relaxing and cooling effect is required in the respiratory tract and lungs.
My other favourite plant for bronchitis would be Mullein (Verbascum densiflorum). Endorsed by the British herbal pharmacopoeia for use in inflammation of the mucus membranes, Mullein is also able to reduce fever making it suited to the early stages of a viral infection. It is also anti-tussive so a dose before bed can help with coughs that wake us frequently in the night.
Plant medicine for infection is usually taken in an oral liquid several times a day to ensure the active constituents remain in the body over a 24-hour period. Next time it would be best to begin at the first sign of illness, such as a sore throat, so that the immune system gets additional support from the outset. This can often stop the infection taking hold, limiting the time you spend unwell.
I hope your cough resolves quickly. If your condition persists or does not improve, see your leading healthcare professional.
References
Nabavi et al. (2015). Plants belonging to the genus Thymus as antibacterial agents: From farm to pharmacy. Food Chemistry 173, 339-347. doi: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2014.10.042
Gallagher, R. (1997). Use of herbal preparations for intractable cough. Journal of Pain and Symptom Management, 14(1), 1-2.