Bronchitis is a respiratory tract infection (viral or bacterial that causes inflammation of the mucous lining of the bronchial tubes. Acute bronchitis is generally reversible. Chronic bronchitis, often referred to as smoker’s cough, is not usually reversible. Acute bronchitis is usually caused by a virus, but can also be caused by bacteria. Generally, acute bronchitis is passed from person to person. The main causes of chronic bronchitis are cigarette smoking and prolonged exposure to air pollution or other irritants such as dust and grain. Risk factors include: cigarette smoking; severe pneumonia early in life; being a man over age 50.

Nutrition
Avoid allergenic foods. Reduce intake of mucus-producing foods such as dairy, citrus, wheat, and bananas. Onions and garlic may help to thin mucus.

Vitamins and Minerals
- Vitamin C
- Zinc
- Beta-carotene: some studies suggest smokers should not use beta-carotene
- N-acetyl cysteine: protects lungs tissue from damage and helps break up mucus

Herbs
Acute Bronchitis:
- Thyme Leaf (Thymus vulgaris)
- Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
- Coneflower (Echinacea purpura)
- Ginger (Zingiber officinalis)
- Linden Flowers (Tilia cordata)
- White Horehound (Marrabium vulgare): a gentle stimulating expectorant that relaxes spasms of the bronchi airway
- Sundew (Drosera rotundifolia) helps you cough up mucus and relaxes spasms

Chronic Bronchitis:
- Pleurisy Root (Asclepias tuberosa)
- Elecampane (Inula belenium)
- Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
- Lungwort (Sticta pulmonaria)
- Lomatium (Lomatium dissectum)
- Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatume): an herb that helps to sweat out impurities and relax spasms.
- Pill bearing spurge (Euphorbia hirta): an herb that breaks up mucus and relaxes spasms
- Garlic (Allium sativum) and Ginger Tea can be used long-term (2 cloves of garlic and 2-3 slices of ginger root). Simmer in 1 cup water for 15 minutes. Drink 3 to 4 cups per day. Add honey or lemon to flavor.