Respiratory - A German bronchitis formula

by Paul Bergner

Medical Herbalism 09-30-93 5(3): 9

The following formula is sold over-the-counter in Germany for acute bronchitis with a productive cough.

Apo-Tuss R

Tussilago farfara leaves (coltsfoot)     5 parts

Plantago lanceolata (ribwort plantain)     4 parts

Thymus serpyllum (thyme)          4 parts

Malva sylvestris flowers (blue mallow)    3 parts

Pimpinella anisum (anise)     3 parts

Cetraria islandica (Iceland moss)     3 parts

Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice)     2 parts

The primary actions of the herbs are: coltsfoot (expectorant and demulcent), ribwort plantain (demulcent — do not confuse with Plantago major), thyme (expectorant and antiseptic), blue mallow (demulcent), anise (expectorant), Iceland moss (demulcent, expectorant), licorice (demulcent, expectorant, anti-inflammatory).

Ribwort plantain and blue mallow are not readily available in North America. Marshmallow root (Althea off) or extra iceland moss may be substituted for ribwort plantain, and hollyhock flowers (Althea rosea) or marshmallow may be substituted for blue mallow. The best form of administration is as a tea.
 

Copyright 2001 Paul Bergner    353