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The Eclectic Physician
Natural Health Care
by Beth Burch N.D.
Coughs-
Coughs usually accompany colds and flu. They are not usually serious unless
you have chest pain and/or you are coughing up green, yellow or brown mucous
which may indicate a bacterial infection of the lungs or bronchial tubes
(pneumonia or bronchitis. Coughs that accompany colds and flu are usually
better in 3-5 days, along with the other symptoms. Spasmodic coughs that
interfere with rest and sleep may need a cough suppressant prescribed by
your health care provider. A chronic cough can be a symptom of chronic
bronchitis, asthma, emphysema, heart failure or lung cancer. Any cough
that persists for more than a week, especially if it is accompanied by
a fever, production of green, yellow or brown mucous, difficulty breathing,
wheezing or if you are coughing up blood, should be evaluated right away
by your health care provider.
For a simple cough accompanying a cold or flu, follow the suggestions
under colds and flu. Also increase your intake of hot liquids and use a
vaporizer or humidifyer to moisturize the air to help liquify secretions
and make them easier to expell.
Herbal treatment-
Mullein- contains mucilage which is soothing to the throat and
lung passages and saponins which have an expectorant effect. Gentle and
effective.
Liquid extract-1/2-1 teaspoon three- four times a day
Dry herb in capsules-500-1000 mg three- four times a day.
Other herbs- Licorice, Slippery Elm, Osha, Wild Cherry, Nasturtium,
Grindelia, Horehound * The information presented in this web site is intended to inform and educate.
It is not intended replace a qualified medical practitioner to diagnose or treat medical conditions.
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