Using TCM natural approaches to bronchitis

Condition analysis:
Bronchitis often develops in the sinuses, nose and throat eventually moving into the lungs which can create a more serious scenario such as pneumonia. An acute or short-term struggle with bronchitis is usually gone within a week or two however a cough can linger.

Chronic or long-term bronchitis is diagnosed as having a cough most days for at least three months often accompanied by excessive mucus.  Conventional medicine, acting on the symptoms of bronchitis, will prescribe such medicines as antibiotics, cough suppressants, steroidal pills and/or inhalers. Acupuncture and naturopathic medicine approach bronchitis from the inside out looking for the root cause that, when found, can be re-adjusted into a healing regiment.

Instructions:
DIET FOR BRONCHITIS
1. Follow a balanced diet rich in complex carbohydrates, low in fat, and with organic sources of lean protein such as egg whites, skinless chicken, ostrich, and turkey.

2. Favor green vegetables and include green and red cabbage, kale, asparagus, bell peppers, Brussels sprouts, celery, daikon radish, garlic, green beans, carrots, papaya, lotus root, seaweed, button mushrooms, reishi mushrooms, mustard greens, onions, leeks, parsnips, seaweed, turnips, water chestnuts, watercress, apples, bananas, apricots, figs, grapefruits, mulberries, oranges, Asian pears (also known as pear apples), persimmons, almonds, ginkgo nuts (available in Asian markets), chestnuts, walnuts, olives, and honey.

3. During an infection, increase fluid intake to So ounces of room temperature or lukewarm beverages a day.

4. Eliminate foods that promote mucus, including dairy products, but especially ice cream, cold and raw foods, sweet foods containing simple processed sugars or processed flour, and soft drinks.