To get rid of acute respiratory viral infections, colds and improve your well-being, you can use various drugs - both pharmaceutical drugs and compositions of medicinal herbs.
Chamomile is often used for coughs in the form of infusions, decoctions, and teas. This plant can not only eliminate the symptoms of influenza or ARVI, but also increase the body's protective properties.
Flower preparations are effective, harmless, and can be used to treat adults and children.
Beneficial features
Chamomile has been used to treat respiratory diseases since ancient times. Remedies with the plant are useful for both dry and wet coughs. Decoctions, infusions and teas are prepared from the flowers. They are also used for inhalation and water procedures.
Chamomile contains vitamins, biologically active compounds and other beneficial substances that have antiseptic, immunostimulating, and anti-inflammatory effects. This universal medicine will cope with cough in adults and children. It can be used to treat infants and pregnant women.
The therapeutic effect of chamomile is due to the presence of the following components in its composition:
- coumarins,
- flavonoids,
- chamazulene,
- essential oils,
- ascorbic acid,
- quercetin,
- tannins,
- carotene,
- polysaccharides,
- micro- and macroelements,
- choline
It is known about the anti-inflammatory, immunostimulating, antitussive, antibacterial, and sedative properties of plant-based drugs. Chamomile also has a sedative, decongestant, antispasmodic and diaphoretic effect.
The use of drugs provides:
- eliminating sore throat;
- fight against pathogenic microflora;
- increasing the body's resistance to viruses and bacteria;
- thinning sputum and stimulating its elimination;
- improved blood flow;
- reduction of inflammation;
- moisturizing the mucous membrane of the throat and respiratory tract;
- acceleration of recovery.
Expectorants based on the plant are effective for influenza, sore throat, laryngitis and tonsillitis. Chamomile is especially useful for dry, unproductive coughs, as well as for bronchitis.
However, the maximum therapeutic effect can be achieved only with the appropriate use of funds and the use of high-quality raw materials.
You should not treat the disease with chamomile alone. Plant-based medicines will be effective only if they are combined with medications prescribed by a doctor.
Popular recipes
Chamomile is used for coughs in the form of teas, decoctions and infusions. They do inhalations and take baths with it. The preparations are natural, effective, have a pleasant taste and aroma.
They go well with bee products, lemon and other medicinal plants. There are many ways to prepare medicines.
You just need to choose the appropriate one depending on the disease and general condition.
Before taking the product, you should consult your doctor and make sure there are no contraindications. Do not forget that herbal medicines are an addition to traditional treatment.
Tea
The drink has diaphoretic and restorative properties. Using the product helps get rid of inflammation in the respiratory system, strengthen the immune system, fight pathogenic microorganisms and relieve coughs.
It's easy to prepare. About 20 g of dried flowers are brewed in a glass of boiling water. Cover the container with a lid and infuse the product for half an hour. Chamomile tea is filtered and taken 50 ml three times a day. If the drink is being prepared for a child, the amount of raw material is reduced to 10 g. Give 20 ml every 3 hours. Honey is added to improve the taste.
Infusion
There are many recipes for chamomile infusions. They are taken orally and used for rinsing. They do an excellent job with dry coughs, helping to thin out mucus and remove it from the respiratory tract. The drugs are also useful for bronchitis.
To prepare a rinse, take 30 g of herb. The raw materials are poured with boiled water (500 ml) and left warm for half an hour. The procedure is carried out at least 5 times a day.
- To quickly get rid of a cold, it is recommended not only to gargle, but also to take infusions orally.
- To make the medicine you need to take:
- chamomile - 30 g;
- elderberry - 20 g;
- mint - 25 g;
- water - 1 l.
30 g of the mixture is brewed with boiling water and left in a warm place for an hour. Drink 200 ml of filtered drink three times a day. This medicine reduces fever and stimulates mucus production.
You can also prepare this infusion. Chamomile and oregano are mixed in equal proportions - 10 g each. The raw materials are poured with boiling water (0.5 l) and left warm for 30 minutes. Drink ¼ glass 2-3 times a day. The drink alleviates the general condition of bronchitis.
There is one more recipe. To prepare the medicine, take:
- water - 500 ml;
- chamomile - 20 g;
- valerian - 15 g;
- motherwort - 10 g;
- mint - 25 g;
- St. John's wort - 10 g.
A tablespoon of raw material is infused in cold water for 3 hours. Drink 30 ml three times a day.
Decoction
The product has pronounced anti-inflammatory, analgesic and expectorant properties. It is especially effective for laryngitis, tonsillitis, accompanied by cough. The decoction is used for inhalation and gargling.
About 30 g of dried flowers are poured with water (0.5 l). Bring the mixture to a boil and then simmer over low heat for 5 minutes. The liquid is filtered and used for gargling and inhalation. The procedure is carried out 3-4 times a day.
Inhalations
Inhaling healing vapors helps cleanse the bronchi, eliminate inflammation and soothe cough. Approximately 50 g of dry plant is poured with water (0.5 l). Boil the mixture over low heat for 5 minutes. After boiling, the solution is poured into a small saucepan.
Then cover with a towel and bend over the container. You need to breathe in pairs for 20–30 minutes. The procedure is carried out 3 times a day.
Features of treatment
In order for medicines made from chamomile flowers to work, help fight a cough and not cause harm, you need to familiarize yourself with the features of therapy. Taking the drugs is not indicated for all patients; for example, tinctures should not be given to infants and children under 12 years of age. Children under 7 years old should not be rinsed.
It is equally important to observe the dosage of medications and the proportions of components.
Abuse of compounds, exceeding doses, multiple doses of drugs, replacing medications prescribed by a doctor with folk remedies is fraught with unpredictable consequences.
For the treatment of cough in adults, water and alcohol infusions, decoctions, rinses and inhalations are used. It is necessary to treat the disease in newborns and children under 12 years of age carefully and after consultation with the pediatrician.
Doctors advise following these recommendations:
- For coughs, colds, flu or acute respiratory viral infections in a child under 12 years of age, the use of chamomile tea, 20 ml every 2 hours, is recommended.
- You cannot give alcohol-based drugs, only water-based ones - infusions, decoctions.
- Children over 7 years old can gargle.
- Inhalations are contraindicated for children under 3 years of age. The solution for the procedure is prepared differently from that for adults. Instead of 50 g, take 10 g of raw materials. Brew it in boiling water - 1 liter.
- The duration of the course of cough treatment is until complete recovery.
Infants
Chamomile is a natural and harmless medicine that can be given to babies. But not all drugs are safe and beneficial for newborns. In order for the products to bring exceptional benefits and help eliminate cough, you must adhere to the following tips:
- Children from 4 months can be treated with the compositions.
- Alcohol preparations should not be given to infants.
- Infusion, tea is prepared not concentrated - take 1 tsp per 200 ml of water. raw materials. Dosage - 10 ml of the drug four times a day.
- Before use, the medicine is carefully filtered.
- Do not give your baby too hot a drink.
- You cannot add bee products or lemon. Allergic reactions are possible.
The most popular method of treating cough in newborns is the use of healing baths. It is especially suitable if the baby is reluctant to use drugs or if he still cannot gargle.
Bathing is indicated only from the 14th day, after the umbilical wound has dried.
To prepare the solution, take 30 g of raw material. It is brewed in a liter of boiling water. The product is infused in a thermos for an hour. It is recommended to prepare the drug 3 hours before swimming. The filtered liquid is poured into the bath. The duration of the procedure is 5 minutes. With each bath, the duration is increased to 15 minutes.
Baths with chamomile infusion are an ideal remedy for the treatment of laryngitis, pharyngitis, cough and sore throat.
Pregnant women
During pregnancy, almost all medications are contraindicated, with the exception of natural compounds, in particular chamomile. For coughs, it is used in the form of inhalations or baths. Taking drugs orally is possible, but it must be agreed with the gynecologist.
Treatment should be started after a preliminary consultation with a doctor and only during normal pregnancy.
Contraindications
Not everyone can take cough medicine with chamomile. There are restrictions on use that should be familiarized with before starting therapy. The use of the products is contraindicated for people suffering from:
- gastritis,
- stomach ulcer,
- mental disorders,
- diseases of the urinary system.
You cannot be treated with compounds if you have an individual intolerance or a tendency to allergies. Abuse of chamomile, frequent use in large doses is fraught with deterioration of health, malaise, redness and itching of the skin, and dyspeptic disorders. If such symptoms appear, you should refrain from further therapy and consult a doctor.
Reviews
For many people, chamomile is a real salvation for sore throat and cough. In most cases, plant-based medicines help in treating the disease. Inhalations are especially effective. After 3-4 procedures, positive dynamics are noted and well-being improves.
Some are dissatisfied with the result of therapy; they believe that remedies from the plant are not able to eliminate the manifestations of ARVI.
According to doctors, chamomile preparations only work if they are combined with medications. Cough therapy should be comprehensive; infusions alone are unlikely to cure a cold. Doctors insist on careful use of herbal preparations, especially for allergy sufferers and pregnant women.
Conclusion
Chamomile is a valuable gift of nature. Teas, decoctions and infusions from it help treat coughs of any origin in adults and children. But to ensure that the drugs do not harm the body, before therapy you need to consult a doctor and make sure there are no contraindications.
Source: https://prikashel.ru/narodnye/romashka-ot-kashlja.html
Chamomile for coughs in children: medications, folk recipes and more
The folk practice of treating inflammatory, colds, and chronic diseases widely uses medicinal plants. Among them, chamomile occupies a worthy place. It has been used by healers since ancient times. In Latin it is called Matricaria, and this is due to its ability to help with uterine problems.
Folk remedies based on chamomile are widespread. It is used for diseases of various organs, inflammation and colds. Used in any dosage forms: home and pharmacy. Chamomile for cough is prepared independently. There are no ready-made drugs available for the treatment of this pathology. Medicinal herbs are harvested in the summer and purchased at markets or pharmacies.
What are the benefits of chamomile?
Chamomile is a perennial herbaceous plant of the Asteraceae family. The species that is used for medicinal purposes is called Matricāria chamomīlla. It has external differences from the non-medicinal form. Its yellow central part is very tall; it is 2 - 3 times higher than that of an ordinary wild flower.
As a raw material for the production of drugs, it is cultivated in fields on an industrial scale. The inflorescences of the plant are used - baskets. They are collected before the fifth day from the beginning of flowering and dried at temperatures up to 40 degrees. This requirement is mandatory - otherwise useful substances will evaporate.
The properties of chamomile are due to the presence of various alkaloids:
- essential oil;
- quercetin;
- coumarins;
- phytosterols;
- tannins;
- vitamins PP and C;
- carotene and other substances.
Dried inflorescences contain many flavonoids. All these natural components have a general strengthening and tonic effect.
The effect of chamomile on asthma is ensured by the presence of chamazulene in it. This substance has antiallergic and immunostimulating activity.
For the treatment of respiratory diseases, colds, sore throats, medications are prepared independently. For children, chamomile for cough is used as a decoction, infusion, or tea. The dosage per dose is calculated according to age.
The infusion of the plant has anti-inflammatory, hemostatic, antiseptic, analgesic, sedative, anticonvulsant, diaphoretic, and choleretic effects. It is used internally as a carminative and antispasmodic against flatulence, for chronic gastritis, colitis. Externally, the infusion is gargled, used for baths, and administered through enemas.
Wounds and eyes with conjunctivitis are washed with a decoction. Chamazulene is used to treat bronchial asthma and eczema. Its effect enhances regenerative processes, reduces allergic manifestations, and even provides mild anesthesia. Chamomile oil is used for aromatherapy for insomnia and migraines. It is also used for inhalation for coughs, colds, and flu.
Chamomile treatment for cough
A cough occurs when phlegm begins to accumulate in the respiratory tract under the influence of an infectious agent. It irritates the sensitive ciliated epithelium of the bronchi; secretory cells begin to produce even more secretion in order to remove the infection out. The sputum thickens and is difficult to clear.
In the pathogenesis of cough, the inflammatory reaction, the thickness of the secretion, and irritation of the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract are important. Chamomile is an excellent cough remedy for people of any age. Having the necessary capabilities due to alkaloids, it helps with cough. Used in various dosage forms, it has the desired therapeutic effect.
Does chamomile help a child's cough? Preparations based on this plant are simply necessary. They are effective, safe, have a pleasant taste and smell, and go well with honey, lemon, and other medicinal herbs.
Tea
Teas have a diaphoretic effect, everything necessary to get rid of various inflammatory processes of the respiratory system.
After taking this remedy, you should wrap yourself in a warm blanket and prepare a couple of T-shirts for a change in advance. As you sweat, you need to put on dry underwear.
The diaphoretic effect stimulates the body's defenses, helps remove toxins through the skin pores, and soothes coughs by reflex.
Infusion
Infusions of chamomile inflorescences are drunk as an antitussive for bronchitis. They help remove thick mucus.
They also have an anti-inflammatory, healing and soothing effect on the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract.
Decoction
Chamomile decoction can be used for tonsillitis and laryngitis, which are accompanied by cough. It is prepared according to a standard recipe and is used for gargling and inhalation. After relief of the condition, it is recommended to continue treatment for a couple of days to consolidate the effect.
Gargle at least four times a day. After the procedures, you should not go outside in cool weather. The throat should be wrapped in a woolen scarf. For at least 30–40 minutes after rinsing, do not eat or drink anything.
Infusions and decoctions are prepared anew each time and are used only fresh. It is impossible to prepare medicine for future use. It will lose its therapeutic properties.
Chamomile Cough Recipes
Herbal preparations are prepared at home according to pharmacological standards. Their essence is to extract active substances from raw materials or transfer them to water. Homemade herbal preparations are represented by the following types:
Make chamomile tea to help with cough using the following recipe. A tablespoon of dry inflorescences is poured into a glass of boiling water.
It is better to do this using a thermos. After an hour, the tea is ready to drink. This is the daily amount, which should be distributed in equal portions. You can add lemon for taste.
To make the medicine sweet, it is better to add a tablespoon of honey instead of sugar. A fresh preparation is prepared every day.
Another technique for preparing the infusion. There are different ways to prepare them:
- hot;
- cold;
- mixed.
An infusion is prepared using a cold method from those medicinal plants from which essential oils can evaporate at high temperatures. Then the raw materials are simply poured with boiled water at room temperature and left until evening. Another option is to pour boiling water over the grass. It’s better to combine the advantages of both methods.
When preparing an infusion using a mixed technology, the medicinal substances are first extracted using a cold method, then the strained dry mass is infused in boiling water. Then both volumes are mixed.
Chamomile contains alkaloids that are easily evaporated, so infusions from this plant are prepared mainly using a mixed method.
Decoctions from this herb are made much less frequently. During their preparation, important ingredients may be lost, although in the process of bringing plant materials to a boil, much more alkaloids are released into the water than in previous methods. Decoctions are used as an external remedy to gargle for coughs and colds.
Medicines from chamomile are drunk until the cold, cough, and sputum discharge are over. Herbal teas and infusions should not be taken after meals. This way their therapeutic effect may be lost.
Contraindications
Chamomile is a neutral medicinal plant. The alkaloids it contains do not have strong side effects. They are absolutely non-toxic.
Therefore, her medications have virtually no contraindications. Due to the active substance chamazulene, it is approved for use even for asthma. Moreover, it is indicated for the treatment of this allergic disease.
Sometimes individual intolerance may be the reason why inhalations will be prohibited. In case of allergic reactions, which are quite rare, you should avoid this medicinal herb.
Finally
Chamomile as a raw material for medicines is universal. It has a low allergenic profile. Contains many non-toxic alkaloids aimed at treating various diseases. Among the effects that chamomile has are anti-inflammatory, hemostatic, healing and others.
This is why chamomile is used as a cough medicine. Safety and excellent predictable effect allow you to start using drugs from this plant without waiting for them to be prescribed by a doctor. Dried raw materials are available in all pharmacies and are affordable.
Source: https://DeteyLechenie.ru/organy-dyhaniya/romashka-ot-kashlya-u-detej.html
Chamomile for colds in children: how to help your child
Colds in childhood are as inevitable as bruises and abrasions, otherwise the immune system will never learn to resist infections. Fearing that frequent use of medications will harm the child, many parents rely on home remedies - chamomile, sage and calendula, believing that herbs are gentler. Please note that chamomile for colds is useful for children only if the herbalists’ recipes do not contradict medical recommendations.
Can chamomile cure a cold?
Typically, a cold in a child manifests itself as inflammation in the nasopharynx and oral cavity, caused by the activation of opportunistic microflora against the background of hypothermia and a weakening of the body's defenses. Colds include:
• rhinitis;• sinusitis;• nasopharyngitis;• laryngitis;• tracheitis;• chronic tonsillitis;
• adenoiditis.
Colds can be easily cured with herbs, but for respiratory infections such as sore throat, flu or severe cases of acute respiratory viral infection, chamomile alone will not be enough. The patient needs etiotropic therapy with individual selection of antibiotics or antiviral drugs; herbal medicine plays a supporting role.
Chamomile against colds: what pediatricians say
Herbalists allow you to do whatever your heart desires with chamomile - drink it in the form of a decoction and infusion, gargle, do inhalations, rinse your nose. Scientific medicine has a different opinion on this matter.
Since it has been proven that the anti-inflammatory effect of the plant in the fight against colds is more pronounced when applied topically, chamomile is prescribed for children with a sore throat for gargling, and for rhinitis - for rinsing the nasal cavity.
Not all topical remedies are equally effective. In particular, hot foot baths with chamomile are recognized as a means of distraction, and in the form of a hot decoction for inhalation, chamomile will help children with a cough only after the cessation of the acute inflammatory process.
For acute infections, inhalations with chamomile are harmful, since heat exposure promotes the proliferation of microbes. It is also prohibited to use chamomile oil in compression inhalers and nebulizers, otherwise it will end in pneumonia.
Children under 3 years old should not be given chamomile at all, since evidence of its safety for young children has not yet been obtained.
In infants, chamomile decoction can cause diarrhea, and if used frequently, it also interferes with the absorption of iron. For these reasons, chamomile for colds for children under one year old is allowed only in the form of nasal drops.
Children over 3 years old can drink chamomile infusion or tea as a mild expectorant and diaphoretic.
How to brew chamomile for a child
For small children from 1 to 3 years old, only weak chamomile decoctions and diluted chamomile tea are suitable. Infusions can only be used after 5 years, as they may contain harmful impurities that are destroyed by heat treatment.
Safe concentrations of bioactive phytocomponents for children are lower than for adults. To prepare the decoction, you need 1–1.5 teaspoons of dry raw materials per one and a half glasses of water (300 ml). The dried inflorescences are poured into an enamel pan and simmered in a water bath for about half an hour, then cooled, filtered and infused for 40 minutes, and then boiled water is added to the original volume.
If the child is prone to allergies, place the pan on low heat and boil the liquid for 3-4 minutes. In this case, the loss of active substances is small, but the decoction will be completely cleared of inclusions.
To brew chamomile tea you will need three tablespoons of flower heads and half a liter of boiling water. The flowers are poured with hot water, the teapot is wrapped in a towel and left for an hour or two. For one cup of tea, take 2-3 tablespoons of tea leaves.
Chamomile infusions for internal use are prepared at the rate of one large spoon of inflorescences per glass of hot water. Flower baskets are poured into a thermos, filled with water, wrapped and allowed to brew for about four hours. Infusions for rinsing are prepared in the same way as tea leaves.
When chamomile is useful: dosage and rules of use
Children from 3 to 9 years old are given decoctions and infusions of chamomile to drink a quarter glass three times a day; for a teenager 10–16 years old, the single dose is increased to a third of a glass. If your baby is naughty, sweeten the medicine with honey. The duration of the course is from 2 weeks to a month or more.
To gargle and wash the nose, use a warm decoction or tea of chamomile, diluted with boiled water in a ratio of 1:2. Before use, add salt to the liquid - a teaspoon per liter. The procedures are repeated up to 4–5 times a day for a week. Ready-made decoctions, infusions and chamomile teas are stored in the refrigerator for no more than two days.
A growing body sometimes exhibits unpredictable reactions to medications. Take chamomile under the supervision of a pediatrician - the doctor knows more about the beneficial properties of herbs than the neighbor's grandmothers!
Source: https://zen.yandex.ru/media/id/5b3c8f89d8c4f600a8ba76cc/5b4c5428800a6800a9244657
Does chamomile help with cough and how is it used for this syndrome?
Chamomile is very often used for coughs, as well as as part of complex therapy for various diseases accompanied by this reflex. In particular, chamomile tea is drunk for various acute respiratory viral infections, bronchitis and pneumonia, and for some diseases that cause a reflex cough.
In all these cases, chamomile is believed to have emollient, anti-inflammatory and antitussive effects. In particular, for children, such a remedy is most often used precisely for the purpose of either stopping coughing or reducing its frequency and strength.
Cough cannot be treated with chamomile, although as part of some complex remedies this herb can somewhat alleviate the patient’s condition.
At the same time, chamomile does not have a clear effectiveness specifically for combating coughs. Practice shows that in most cases it is used as a placebo, and it has practically no effect on the cough itself and its causes. Let's try to figure this out.
How effective is chamomile for coughs?
Today there is no reason to believe that chamomile can affect the strength or frequency of cough or its productivity.
Chamomile has known anti-inflammatory properties, which theoretically could provide a therapeutic effect if the cough is caused by bronchitis, certain types of pneumonia, or tracheitis. However, in practice, the ability of chamomile to help with these diseases has not been confirmed and is disputed by many doctors.
The fact is that chamomile has a clear therapeutic effect only in those tissues with which the drug based on it is in direct contact.
For example, if chamomile is used internally, it helps reduce inflammation in the stomach and intestines, since it comes into contact with the mucous membranes of the digestive tract. If you gargle with it, it helps to somewhat reduce inflammation specifically in the tonsils; if it is used to lubricate the areas of irritation due to dermatitis, these are the areas that stop itching.
Cough is caused by inflammation of organs and tissues, which are either impossible or strictly prohibited to treat with chamomile preparations.
For example, it is impossible to deliver a remedy with chamomile into the bronchi or lungs: liquid cannot be poured here, and doing inhalations with chamomile with inhalers and nebulizers, which provide treatment of the lower respiratory tract, is strictly prohibited according to the instructions.
It is not known whether chamomile will help relieve inflammation in the respiratory tract and ease a cough if you drink it. There are no corresponding experimental data, and no studies have been conducted on the effectiveness of such treatment for diseases that cause cough.
As a rule, chamomile is taken orally for coughs only as a sedative.
Also, practically no authoritative literary sources indicate the use and effectiveness of chamomile for coughs. The only exception is PDR for Herbal Medicine by Thomas Fleming. Here the author reports that chamomile, among other purposes, is used for coughs, but other than stating this fact, he does not provide any evidence of its effectiveness.
There is no evidence that the use of chamomile helps relieve cough or get rid of it completely. Relevant studies have not been conducted; WHO documents and reports do not say anything about the possibility of using chamomile for coughs.
On a note
In the collection of traditional medicine recipes for the treatment of diseases of the respiratory tract that cause coughing, “Herbal Treatment” by V. A. Pashinsky, not a single recipe contains chamomile. Similarly, in the book “Medicinal Plants and Methods of Their Use among the People,” Nosal M. A. and Nosal I. M. Chamomile is not indicated in recipes for treating the respiratory system.
With a high probability, chamomile does not have a pronounced effect on coughs. If it really helped, this ability would have already been studied, just as its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties were studied.
How is it used for diseases of the respiratory tract?
Most often, when coughing, drink chamomile tea or decoction. For children, sweet tea with syrup, honey or sugar is used; adults often drink tea with the addition of an alcohol tincture or an alcohol extract of the plant.
Both tea based on loose raw materials and tea bags are used with the same effect.
As mentioned above, it is not known whether chamomile, when used in this way, can affect the tissues whose inflammation leads to coughing.
Clearly, drinking any liquid, including chamomile tea or decoction, promotes the separation of mucus in the respiratory tract, which increases the productivity of the cough and allows you to cough up interfering mucus. However, you can just as easily drink pure water or plain tea, since what is important here is the amount of liquid that the patient drinks.
This effect works well with a wet expectorant cough, provoked either by the accumulation of sputum in the lower parts of the respiratory tract, or by the flow of mucus from the nasopharynx into the throat. For a dry cough caused by irritation of the cough center in the brain, as well as cough due to whooping cough, neither chamomile nor any other drink will help.
Less commonly, inhalations with chamomile are used when coughing. Almost always this is a procedure colloquially called “breathing over chamomile”: the patient bends over a container with a hot chamomile infusion, a towel is covered over his head and he inhales the vapors rising above the drug.
Such inhalations for coughs are ineffective, since the vapors with chamomile components do not penetrate deeper than the nasopharynx.
The effectiveness of such inhalations is minimal, since with them the vapor particles do not pass deeper than the nasopharynx and do not enter the trachea, bronchi and lungs - those organs in which inflammation causes coughing. Therefore, no treatment will occur in this case.
Inhalations using a nebulizer, compressor or ultrasonic inhalers are prohibited with any chamomile preparations.
Special solutions are produced for these devices, and the chamomile preparation in them can pose a threat to the patient: with this drug, oils can enter the lungs (which is fraught with the development of fatty pneumonia) or particles of raw materials that can injure or simply contaminate the lining of the alveoli.
Gargling with chamomile also does not affect coughing, since this reflex develops when areas of the respiratory tract become so deep that they cannot be rinsed.
Very rarely, compresses are made on the throat with chamomile. There is no known mechanism that would allow such procedures to influence the cough, and there is even reason to believe that such compresses can be dangerous: in places where the temperature rises, inflammation increases, which can intensify the cough itself.
To make a compress, dry chamomile is poured onto cotton wool in a compress.
Finally, it is important to remember the main rule of using any cough suppressant: the cough itself is not dangerous and does not require treatment. The disease that causes this cough needs to be treated.
A cough is just a symptom that is pointless to eliminate if its cause persists.
Therefore, in fact, you cannot take chamomile or any other cough remedy - you need to take drugs that reduce inflammation in the lower parts of the respiratory tract. If this result is obtained, the cough will go away on its own.
Is it possible to drink it during pregnancy?
You should not drink chamomile during pregnancy without consulting a doctor. When its drugs enter the digestive tract and are absorbed into the blood, they can lead to an increase in the tone of the uterus, which can lead to miscarriage in the first weeks of pregnancy, or premature birth in the later stages.
Considering that it is highly likely that taking chamomile tea or a decoction internally will not affect the cough, it is completely unreasonable for pregnant women to risk the undesirable effects of such a remedy.
Theoretically, if the gynecologist leading the pregnancy considers it justified to take a chamomile remedy, then chamomile can be taken in the quantities specified by him and with the prescribed frequency.
However, it is almost certain that a conscientious doctor will not prescribe chamomile for a cough, understanding that it will not have any effect.
When breastfeeding, mothers are allowed to drink chamomile, doing so carefully, starting with small quantities and monitoring the baby's condition.
At what age can chamomile be given to children?
Chamomile is definitely contraindicated for children in their first year of life who have not yet switched to a full, varied diet.
Its decoction or tea, even diluted, should not be given to newborns and infants 2-3 months old, since it can cause allergic reactions and diarrhea in them.
Similar effects can develop in babies under 1 year of age who are already receiving complementary foods, but they are less likely to have side effects. However, given that chamomile has virtually no effect on the severity of cough, it is better to do without it completely when treating bronchitis or pneumonia in such children.
The first, still safe, but obvious signs of an allergy in a child, when they appear, he cannot continue taking the allergenic drug.
In its documents on medicinal herbs, the WHO states that chamomile should not be taken by children under 3 years of age.
In any case, before giving chamomile to a child, it is necessary to check that he does not have an allergic reaction to this remedy.
Chamomile can cause allergies, even though it is considered a good remedy for reducing allergy symptoms caused by other substances.
There is even a known case of the death of an 8-year-old child from anaphylactic shock to chamomile, when he was treated with hay fever and cough caused by an allergy to pollen of other plants with the help of chamomile. Therefore, it is very important here to play it safe and not take unnecessary risks.
It is also useful to read: The benefits and harms of chamomile
Traditional recipes for treating cough with chamomile
When coughing, you usually drink chamomile tea prepared according to the standard recipe:
- Either 2 teaspoons of dried chamomile flowers are poured into a glass of hot water at a temperature of 90-93°C, left for 10-15 minutes and then drunk;
- Or 3 tablespoons of dried chamomile are poured into a teapot with 0.5 liters of hot water at the same temperature, left for about an hour and then used as a tea leaves for making tea.
Sometimes they also drink chamomile decoction and even an infusion, but tea for oral administration is best suited.
Both raw chamomile, sold in bulk, and chamomile in bags are suitable for preparing such products.
In this form, chamomile is usually cheaper, but requires additional manipulations when brewing.
Separately, we spoke in detail:
The finished product is usually drunk instead of simple tea 2-3 times a day after meals, or between meals. It is often recommended to brew other medicinal herbs together with chamomile - coltsfoot, sage, marigold, mint, calendula, which are also known for their medicinal properties and have anti-inflammatory, soothing, and analgesic effects.
Also, chamomile itself is often used only as an additive in chest preparations intended specifically for the treatment of lung diseases that cause coughing.
For example, the following recipes with chamomile are known, used to treat the respiratory system:
- 30 g of chamomile flowers, 30 g of black elderberry flowers, 25 g of linden flowers and 25 g of peppermint leaves are mixed, brewed with boiling water at the rate of 4 tablespoons of the mixture per 1 liter of boiling water and then drink the resulting tea hot, 1 glass 2-3 times a day. . This remedy stimulates increased sweating and mucus production in the respiratory tract;
- Mix chamomile and oregano in equal proportions, add water at the rate of 8 teaspoons per liter of water, bring to a boil and boil for 10 minutes, filter, cool. The resulting solution is drunk 1 glass in the morning and evening as a means to alleviate the general condition of bronchitis;
- 10 g each of wild rosemary, coltsfoot leaves, tricolor violet grass, plantain leaves, chamomile flowers, spring primrose herbs and roots, common anise fruits, marshmallow roots and licorice roots are mixed and prepared according to the standard recipe for preparing a decoction and drink a third of a glass three times a day after meals for dry bronchitis;
- 20 g of chamomile flowers, 10 g of valerian roots, 10 g of motherwort herb, 20 g of peppermint herb, 10 g of St. John's wort herb and infused in cold water and drunk 0.25 cups 3-4 times a day after meals for bronchospasm;
- 15 g of coltsfoot leaves, 10 g of spring primrose herb, 10 g of peppermint herb, 10 g of chamomile flowers, 20 g of large plantain leaves are brewed at the rate of 3 teaspoons of the mixture per 1 glass of water and drink ¼ glass 3- 4 times a day after meals as an expectorant and anti-inflammatory agent.
Chest collection for the treatment of bronchitis, which includes chamomile.
It is only important to remember that for all ingredients used in the preparation of the product, you need to take into account contraindications and possible side effects - for a particular herb there may be more of them and they may be more serious than those of chamomile.
For children, honey or sugar can be added to chamomile tea, since the taste of an unsweetened drink cannot be called pleasant and the child may refuse to drink it.
The dosages of all drugs indicated in standard recipes for children should be reduced by 2-3 times depending on age, although, judging by reviews, the frequency of side effects, even when children take drugs in “adult” dosages, does not differ from that of adults themselves.
To carry out inhalations, a glass of chamomile flowers is poured with 2 liters of boiling water and either poured into a steam inhaler, or poured into a bowl over which the patient breathes in the vapors of the product, throwing a towel over his head.
On a note
It is strictly forbidden to perform such steam inhalations on children under 10 years of age without parental supervision. During these procedures, there is a very high risk of the container with boiling water overturning and scalding the patient. For the same reason, you should not tuck a towel draped over your head under a bowl—an accidental movement of your head can result in hot water spilling onto the patient’s stomach and legs.
A child has a burn on his stomach after accidentally spilling boiling water.
Of course, inhalations with chamomile cannot be done if the patient has a runny nose or cough caused by an allergy to pollen.
In all cases, if the cough during treatment with chamomile lasts more than 5 days, you should consult a doctor. It is unacceptable and extremely dangerous to continue treatment, especially in a child, if the cough is accompanied by a high body temperature and does not subside 3-4 days after its onset.
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Source: https://herbarix.ru/romashka/primenenie-v-meditsine/romashka-pri-kashle.html
Chamomile for coughs for children and adults - inhalations and decoctions
Chamomile for coughs is used very often. The product can also be used as part of complex therapy for various diseases that are accompanied by this symptom. Chamomile tea can be drunk for various viral infections, pneumonia, and bronchitis. The product has a softening effect, relieves inflammation and produces an antitussive effect.
Beneficial properties of chamomile
Chamomile has been used for a long time to combat respiratory infections. Plant-based formulations can be used to treat dry and wet coughs. Flowers are used to prepare decoctions, teas, and infusions. They are used for water manipulations and inhalations.
The plant contains vitamins, biologically active components and other valuable substances. They have antiseptic and immunostimulating properties, and also successfully relieve inflammation.
This medicine has a universal effect and helps eliminate cough in children and adults. It is suitable for treating infants and pregnant women.
The medicinal properties of chamomile are due to the presence of coumarins, essential oils, and tannins. The plant also contains flavonoids, quercetin, and chamazulene. The composition has immunostimulating, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial properties.
The composition also has a calming effect, copes with swelling, produces a diaphoretic and antispasmodic effect. The use of plant-based medicines helps achieve the following results:
- cope with a sore throat;
- eliminate pathogenic bacteria;
- increase the body's resistance to viruses and bacteria;
- make sputum liquid and stimulate its elimination;
- improve blood circulation;
- reduce inflammation;
- moisturize the mucous membranes of the throat and respiratory tract;
- stimulate recovery.
Expectorant compounds are often used for tonsillitis, flu, and laryngitis. The plant is especially effective for dry and unproductive coughs. It is also often used for bronchitis.
Does chamomile help with cough?
Using chamomile for cough helps achieve excellent results. Rinsing the mouth and throat with a decoction of the product helps to cope with inflammation and has a restorative effect on the mucous membranes. The drug activates the secretion of abnormal secretions during prolonged attacks.
The plant is excellent for treating viral infections. It is used for bronchitis and tracheitis. The composition has a softening and antimicrobial effect. This helps reduce the frequency and intensity of coughing.
In addition, the herb has the following properties:
- antiseptic – ensures healing of mucous membranes;
- antibacterial – copes with pathogenic microflora;
- decongestant – reduces inflammation and swelling of the respiratory tract;
- analgesic – copes with chest attacks.
The use of chamomile for a complex and prolonged cough has a sedative effect and has a beneficial effect on the functioning of the upper respiratory tract. Thanks to this, recovery occurs in a short time.
The active components of the plant help cope with pain and discomfort from dry, non-productive cough. These substances provide dilution of viscous sputum and stimulate its removal during a wet cough.
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Is it possible to drink it during pregnancy?
The use of such drugs during pregnancy is allowed only after consulting a doctor. Such drugs can enter the systemic bloodstream and cause an increase in uterine tone. This can cause miscarriage or premature birth.
You can take chamomile while breastfeeding. However, this should be done with caution, starting with small quantities. Be sure to monitor the baby's condition.
How to give to children
Chamomile is not recommended for children who are prone to allergic reactions to the plant. You should not use the products to treat babies under 4 months.
The composition is also prohibited from being used to treat children with chronic lesions of the digestive organs, disorders of the cardiovascular system, and congenital pathologies.
If after 3-4 days the remedy does not help, therapy should not be continued. This symptom indicates complex inflammation in the bronchopulmonary system. In such a situation, it will not be possible to do without medications.
To make a useful chamomile-based remedy, you should do the following:
- take 200 ml of water and bring it to a boil;
- mix with 1 tablespoon of chamomile flowers;
- leave to infuse for 20 minutes;
- strain and put in the refrigerator.
Children 1-3 years old should be given 1 tablespoon of infusion three times a day. The composition is used after meals. At 4-6 years old you can take a third of a glass. Children 7-12 years old are given 100 ml at a time. Older patients are allowed to drink 200 ml of chamomile tea 2-3 times a day. The course of therapy lasts 7-10 days.
Is it possible for infants
The use of chamomile for the treatment of infants is allowed only in the absence of allergies. The product should not be used without consulting a pediatrician. In pharmacies you can find products that can be taken from 4 months.
To make a cough treatment solution, take 1 small spoon of plant flowers per 250 ml of water. Leave for 20 minutes and strain. Give the child 1 small spoon 3-4 times a day. This should be done after eating. Tea should be stored in a cool place. This is done no more than 24 hours.
How to brew chamomile for a cough
Pharmaceutical chamomile can be prepared in the form of teas, infusions or decoctions. The plant is also used for baths or inhalations. Flower-based products are distinguished by their natural composition and high efficiency. They have a pleasant taste and aroma.
Chamomile combines well with other healing products. It can be combined with honey and lemons. There are many ways to prepare funds. This allows each person to choose the appropriate option. Before use, you should consult your doctor and make sure there are no contraindications.
Top 5 recipes with chamomile
Chamomile for cough is used as an independent ingredient or in combination with other plants. To increase the effectiveness of the herb, it is combined with thyme, mint, and honey.
Tea with honey
The drink helps to cope with mucus in the respiratory system, relieve inflammation, and improve overall well-being. The product restores the mucous membranes of the respiratory organs and larynx. It also successfully eliminates rhinitis and headaches.
To get a valuable drink, you need to take 2 large spoons of chamomile flowers and pour 0.5 boiling water. Leave to infuse for half an hour. Strain the finished product and mix with 1 spoon of natural honey.
Drink the composition in several doses throughout the day. It is recommended to do this after eating. The course of treatment should last 3 weeks.
Broth with coltsfoot
To cope with the symptoms of bronchitis, pneumonia, tracheitis, it is worth using a drink with the addition of coltsfoot. This composition is suitable for treating children over 3 years of age.
To make a healing drink, you need to take 1 tablespoon of plant material, mix with 0.5 liters of boiling water and leave to infuse for half an hour. Strain and give children 1 tablespoon.
Adults can take 70 ml of the composition three times a day. The general course of therapy lasts up to 10 days. Every 3 days you need to take a break for a day.
Sage extract
Chamomile goes well with sage. The product helps to cope with inflammation, achieve an antiseptic effect and obtain a disinfectant effect. Sage helps reduce fever, facilitates respiratory functions and stimulates the removal of infection from the bloodstream.
It is recommended to take a decoction of herbs 2 times a day. It can be used as a gargle several times a day. To make a useful composition, you need to take 1 tablespoon of herbs per 1 liter of boiling water. The product should be boiled in a steam bath for 25 minutes, then strain.
Take 100 ml decoction. This is done 30 minutes after eating. To make a gargle, the product is mixed with warm water. After 4-5 days, the cough reflex will decrease. The maximum duration of treatment should not exceed 1 week.
Alcohol tincture
Chamomile alcohol tincture will help cope with a dry and unproductive cough. The product may only be used by adult patients. It cannot be used for alcoholism, after surgery, for heart pathologies and for damage to the digestive organs.
To make a product for 0.5 liters of alcohol, you need to take 5 large spoons of plant materials. You need to infuse the composition for 1 week. This should be done in a dark and cool place. Then you need to strain the tincture and drink 1 large spoon after meals. This is done three times a day.
You need to be treated with this remedy for 7-10 days.
Chest collection
Chamomile helps cope with the symptoms of dry bronchitis. To reduce coughing attacks, eliminate chest pain and shortness of breath, you should use a herbal mixture. To prepare it, you need to take 10 g of peppermint and coltsfoot leaves, 15 g of chamomile and 20 g of plantain leaves.
Plant materials should be used in dry form. All components must be mixed well. For 250 ml of water you should take 3 small spoons of raw materials. Leave for half an hour. Strain before use. Take the resulting mixture 50 ml after meals. This should be done 3 times a day.
To cope with inflammation and facilitate the removal of sputum, the course of treatment should last 7-10 days. For children 3-12 years old, the drug is prescribed 1 tablespoon three times a day.
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Traditional recipes for treating cough with chamomile
There are many effective folk remedies that can be used to treat cough.
Tea
The product has a diaphoretic effect and helps strengthen the body. Its use helps relieve inflammation in the respiratory organs, strengthen the immune system, and cope with pathogenic microflora and cough.
To make healing tea, you need to take 20 g of dried raw material and brew it in 250 ml of boiling water. Infuse the composition for half an hour. Strain and drink 50 ml. This should be done 3 times a day. To improve the taste, you can use honey.
Infusion
This remedy is used internally or used as a gargle. Chamomile infusions successfully eliminate dry coughs, make sputum more liquid and remove it from the respiratory tract. The product can be used for bronchitis.
To achieve good results, you need to take 30 g of raw material and pour 500 ml of boiling water over it. Leave for half an hour. Gargle with the resulting infusion at least 5 times a day.
You can also make an effective infusion for internal use. To do this, take 30 g of chamomile, 20 g of elderberry, 25 g of mint per 1 liter of water. Pour boiling water over 30 g of the resulting mixture and leave for 1 hour in a warm place. Drink 200 ml of the product three times a day. The composition helps reduce temperature and stimulate the removal of sputum.
Decoction
The composition successfully relieves inflammation, eliminates pain and has an expectorant effect. It is recommended for use for tonsillitis and laryngitis, which are accompanied by coughing attacks. The composition can be used for inhalation and gargling.
To make it, you need to take 30 g of dried flowers and mix with 500 ml of water. Bring the mixture to a boil and simmer for 5 minutes over low heat. Strain the resulting liquid. Use the composition for rinsing and inhalation. Procedures are carried out 3-4 times a day.
Contraindications and possible harm
The use of chamomile-based products is prohibited in the following cases:
- gastritis;
- stomach ulcer;
- mental disorders;
- urinary pathologies.
It is forbidden to use the plant if you have allergies or individual intolerances. Excessive consumption of chamomile provokes poor health, skin hyperemia, and dyspeptic symptoms. In this case, you should stop using the product and consult a doctor.
Reviews
Numerous reviews about this plant indicate its high effectiveness in treating cough:
Anna: At the first symptoms of a cough, I always make myself chamomile tea. I really like its taste and aroma. The drink has a soothing effect on the throat, and after a few days my condition noticeably improves.
Victoria: I really like to treat colds with chamomile infusion. I usually add honey to it. This drink is not only very healthy, but also has an excellent taste. It brings relief the very next day.
Chamomile for coughs is used quite often. This remedy is quite effective. It successfully copes with inflammation, thins mucus, and has an expectorant effect. To achieve good results, you need to strictly follow the dosage.
Source: https://agronom.guru/romashka-ot-kashlya