Bronchitis and the Power of Elderberry Tea

For centuries, herbalists have touted the various health benefits found in elderberries. While most people used them to create tasty jam, juice, wine and even soup, herbalists used elderberries to strengthen the immune system and naturally combat a cold or flu infection. It is therefore hardly surprising to hear that elderberries may also hold the key to providing natural relief for those suffering from bronchitis. Some people rely on elderberry supplements, syrups or extract, but for tea drinkers, few things can provide such comforting relief as a warm cup of elderberry tea.

The Dangers of Bronchitis

Bronchitis occurs when the tissue lining the bronchial tubes, which transport air to your lungs, becomes inflamed, thus making it more difficult to breathe. Bronchitis typically occurs as the result of a respiratory infection, such as a cold or flu. Chronic bronchitis, however, is more often caused by a constant irritation to the bronchial tubes, largely due to smoking. In either case, symptoms of bronchitis include a heavy cough accompanied by mucus, along with fatigue, shortness of breath and chest pain. Fever can also be present, though it may be difficult to distinguish from a fever caused by a respiratory infection.

Acute bronchitis, which results from an infection, will usually resolve itself within a few days, though a cough may continue to linger even weeks after the infection and inflammation has disappeared. If the cough persists for longer than three weeks, interferes with sleeping, is accompanied by a high fever or if coughing produces blood or oddly colored phlegm, it is advised to seek a doctor as soon as possible.

The Benefits of Elderberry Tea for Bronchitis

Elderberry tea may help those suffering from bronchitis in a number of ways. The warm, soothing tea may help to ease the sore throat that typically results from coughing. Furthermore, hydrating regularly through drinking tea may help to break up some of the thick mucus that accompanies bronchitis. What makes elderberry tea useful over other types of tea, however, are its natural antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. Elderberry prompts the release of infection-fighting cytokines, and may also reduce a virus’ ability to infect nearby cells, thus reducing the spread of infection and shortening healing time. Its anti-inflammatory effects also help to reduce inflammation in the bronchial tubes, opening the airways and allowing for better breathing and less coughing. For those who feel relief could not come fast enough, elderberry tea offers sweet, delicious relief.