Bronchitis

Bronchitis is charcterized by the inflammation of the bronchi of the lungs which result in the discharge of a muco-purulent substance known as phlegm or sputum.
Causes
This disease is mainly seen in cigarette smokers. Smoking induces inflammation of the airway with obstruction of the bronchi. Dust and air pollution also contribute largely to this disease. This disease is more common during winter months but when chronic it may be present all the year around.
Sings & Symptoms
Severe cough especially during the mornings of winter months.
Cough is productive (contains sputum) in nature.
Sputum may be scanty, mucoid, thick with occasional streaks of blood. Yellow sputum indicates infection.
Patient may complain of tightness around the chest.
Breathlessness on exertion may be reported.
Wheezing or whistling sound may be heard while breathing.
Fever when infection is present.
Herbal Medicines
The juice of ginger 1 teaspoonful mixed with honey taken thrice a day proves effective in Bronchitis.
The decoction of tulsi, ginger, black pepper in equal quantities taken 20-25ml three times a day.
Mulathi chewed over a period of few hours gives relief.
Jushanda is a popular remedy for Bronchitis. Take 1 teaspoon of this powder, add to it a cup of water. Boil it till half of it remains. Add some sugar or honey and take it at bed time and in the morning before breakfast.
Ayurvedic Remedies
Talisadi churna taken ½ to 1 teaspoon along with honey and ginger juice gives relief in a day or two. The doses can be taken three times a day.
khadiravati should be kept in mouth and sucked slowly. This gives relief in bronchitis associated with congested throat. 4-6 pills can be sucked over a day.
Vasarishta is a liquid taken 15ml + 15ml. of water twice a day after meals.
Haridara Khand 5gm of it mixed with a cup of warm milk at bed time proves effective.
Do's & Don'ts
Steam inhalation is very good.
Curd and sour things should be avoided.
Sour fruits including banana and guava are also contraindicated.
Exposure to cold wind and rain should be avoided.