Coughing and bronchial inflammation are among the most common respiratory issues, especially in the cold season. In Health from the Lord’s Pharmacy, Maria Treben proposes a combination of medicinal plants that cleanse the lungs and soothe irritations: thyme, plantain, and marshmallow.
This mixture, when used correctly, not only thins mucus and eases breathing but also protects the mucous membranes from irritations and inflammation.
Original Recommendations from Maria Treben
Thyme and plantain are very helpful in coughs and bronchitis. Those who drink these teas do not need other remedies.
Maria Treben, Health from the Lord’s Pharmacy
Maria Treben emphasized that expectorant plants should be used at the first signs of cough or cold to prevent the worsening of the illness and the appearance of pulmonary complications.
Authentic Recipe
Herbal Mixture (in equal parts):
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Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) leaves and flowers
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Plantain (Plantago lanceolata) leaves
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Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis) crushed root
Preparation:
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Mix the plants in equal parts.
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From the mixture, take 1 tablespoon and steep it with 250 ml of boiling water.
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Let it infuse for 10-15 minutes, then strain.
Administration:
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Drink 2-3 cups per day, warm, sweetened with honey (optional).
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For persistent cough, Maria Treben also recommends inhalations with thyme and marshmallow, 12 times a day.
Benefits
Thyme
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Contains thymol and carvacrol, compounds with antibacterial and expectorant action.
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Relieves cough and facilitates the elimination of mucus from the bronchi.
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Has antiseptic effects on the respiratory tract and helps regenerate the mucosa.
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Additionally, it stimulates immunity and has disinfectant effects.
Plantain
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Rich in aucubin, mucilage, and flavonoids, plantain soothes dry cough and throat irritations.
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Forms a protective film on the mucosa, reducing inflammation.
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Has mild antibacterial effects and supports the recovery of the bronchi.
Marshmallow
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Its root is one of the richest sources of plant mucilage.
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Soothes irritating cough and throat pain.
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Reduces inflammation of the respiratory mucosa and alleviates the burning sensation.
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In combination with plantain, it protects the respiratory tract and promotes healing.
What Modern Studies Say
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Phytomedicine (2012): thyme extract has antimicrobial and expectorant effects comparable to synthetic cough medications.
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Journal of Herbal Pharmacotherapy (2010): plantain reduces the duration and intensity of acute cough through its protective mucilaginous effect.
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Planta Medica (2016): marshmallow has anti-inflammatory and emollient properties on the respiratory mucosa.
Contraindications
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Not recommended for children under 3 years without medical advice.
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Individuals with asthma or severe respiratory allergies should consult a doctor before use.
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Pregnant women should avoid high doses of thyme.
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Marshmallow may interfere with the absorption of certain medications; it should be taken at least 1 hour apart.
Sources:
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Maria Treben – Health from the Lord’s Pharmacy
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Phytomedicine, Thymus vulgaris extract as an antimicrobial and expectorant agent
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Journal of Herbal Pharmacotherapy, Plantago lanceolata and acute cough
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Planta Medica, Althaea officinalis mucilage and respiratory protection
