Complementary and Alternative Treatments for Bronchitis

Nutrition and Supplementationfor the regulation of mucus production
Although diets should be individualized, there are(For an acute condition, take supplements until your
some general guidelines to follow. Emphasize complexsymptoms subside. If symptoms persist, seek the
carbohydrates and fiber, with a focus on organicadvice of your health care provider. For a chronic
whole grains, beans, fruits, and vegetables. Includecondition, consult your healthcare provider regarding
foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon andthe duration of treatment.)
sardines. Radishes, horseradish, and lemon juice healAromatherapy
the lungs and should be consumed often. AvoidBoth inhalation and steam inhalation therapies with
mucus-forming foods, such as dairy products, wheat,essential oils of eucalyptus, lavender, pine, and
sweet fruits, and processed foods.rosemary can help clear congestion and ease
Daily supplements that benefit those with bronchitisbreathing. For instructions on how to prepare an
are as followsinhalation, see "Aromatherapy" in the "Introduction to
Most Importantcoenzyme (60 mg)-improvesComplementary Therapies" section. Avoid inhalation
breathing proteolytic enzymes with bromelaintherapy if you have asthma.
(between meals as directed on label)-reducesOther beneficial essential oils include benzoin, myrrh,
inflammationzinc (1 15-mg lozenge 5 times daily, notfrankincense, bergamot, marjoram and sandalwood.
to exceed 100 mg total from allBodywork and Somatic Pradices
supplements)-necessary for tissue repairvitamin ACranioSacral Therapy, Oriental bodywork, and
(20,000 IU twice daily for 1 month, then reduce toreflexology are good compliments to other
15,000 IU daily; do not exceed 8000 IU daily if youtreatments.
are pregnant)-heals and protects tissuesvitamin CChiropradic
with bioflavonoids (3000 to 10,000 mg in dividedChiropractic manipulation of the thoracic (mid-back)
doses)-reduces histamine levels and enhances immuneand cervical (neck), sections of the spine relieves
functionmixed carotenoid formula (15,000 IU daily)pressure on the nerve pathways supplying the lung.
protects and repairs lung tissueThis allows more flexible movement of the diaphragm
Also Recommendedchlorophyll (3 times daily asand relieves constricted breathing. It also improves
directed on label)-purifies the blood to improveflow of lymph fluid, allowing full immune protection by
circulationvitamin B complex (100 mg 3 times daily)the lymphatic system and proper enervation to the
activates enzymes needed for healinggarlic (aslungs. In conjunction with proper medical attention,
directed on label, with food)-reduces infection andwhich may include an tibiotics, chiropractic is
rids the body of toxinsextremely effective in decreasing muscle tightness
N-acetyl cysteine (200 mg)and spasticity associated with chronic coughing and
N-acetyl glucosamine (as directed on label) necessarylabored breathing.