Natural cures for a chest infection

Since Christmas I have been suffering with a chest infection. I have also had pain in the shoulder. At first I thought that the pain was muscular, however after going to see my GP she confirmed that it could be an infection in my lung, and perscribed antibiotics. This is now the second course of antibiotics. I need to find and an alternative to cure my chest infection 

Besides antibiotic treatment, there are a few remedies you can try out at home to help keep the condition in check. Since chest infections are usually associated with fever and possible dehydration, it is essential to keep the level of fluids in the body high. You need to keep up a regular intake of water. If you have a habit of smoking, then you need to stop immediately, as this will worsen the condition. Even breathing becomes painful during a chest infection and you are likely to feel tired and weak. As the mucus is blocking the airways, you tend to cough frequently in an attempt to dispel it. The viral infection causes the mucus to become infected with bacteria. As such it is a good idea to take herbs that are anti-microbial in nature such as thyme or hyssop and coltsfoot, which also serve as decongestants and help to treat coughs. These herbs prevent infections from occurring and help to reduce existing symptoms, thus speeding up recovery. Mullein is an herb with anti-inflammatory properties that helps to reduce inflammation in the mucus membranes of the lungs and also the bronchial tract. 

Sleep is quite important to boost the body’s immunity against infections and as such herbs that help you sleep better such as cowslip and chamomile are very effective. Cowslip taken with honey also helps to cleanse the lungs of mucus. Inhalation and chest rubs are also helpful in bringing immediate relief. Licorice is an expectorant and anti-inflammatory herb which is helpful in dealing with infections of the respiratory kind. An infusion of the root of elecampane is used to make a syrup that acts as a warming tonic for infections in the chest. Due to its expectorant action it clears the bronchial tubes and fights the infection. You may also make a poultice of mustard seeds by mixing 100 gm of ground mustard seeds with some warm water to form a thick paste. Take two thin sheets of muslin and spread the paste between them, while it is still warm. Apply it to the chest and leave it on until the paste cools, breathing deeply while doing this.
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Chest infections - Better Health Channel
A chest infection is an infection that affects your lungs, either in the larger airways (bronchitis) or in the smaller air sacs (pneumonia). Young children and the elderly are most at risk, as well as people who are ill and smokers. A chest infection can be serious for these people.


Q&As on Lungs