Whooping cough (also known as ‘pertussis’) is a highly contagious infection of the lungs and airways. It is caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. And it can be passed on through close personal contact, sneezing and coughing.

The bacteria infect the lining of the airways, mainly the windpipe (trachea) and the 2 airways that branch off from it to the lungs (the bronchi) which cause the build-up of thick mucus. This mucus causes the intense bouts of coughing as the body tries to cough it up.

The bacteria also cause the airways to swell up, making them narrower than usual. As a result, breathing is made difficult, which causes the ‘whoop’ sound as the person gasps for breath after a bout of coughing.

Whooping cough commonly affects infants and young children, but immunization can prevent the infection. Young infants are at greatest risk for complications and even death from this respiratory disease.
Adults may develop whooping cough as their immunity from vaccines wears off over time.

Symptoms of Whooping cough

An infected person experiences coldlike or catarrhal symptoms like sneezing, watery eyes, runny nose, mild fever, nasal discharge and congestion, sore throat, followed by severe coughing fits, then gradual recovery, then symptoms recur with subsequent respiratory infections for many months.

Herbal Role or Treatment of Whooping Cough

In earlier times treatment revolved upon using herbs whose main action were to soothe the linings of the throat and bronchial tubes.

The specific herbal blends for Whooping cough include the following; Yarrow, Garlic, Rosehips, Ginger, Liquorice, Marshmallow, Golden Seal and Thyme.

This herbal blend given three times daily in a hot Lemon drink clear the infection and soothe the linings of the throat and bronchial tubes. If given as a course it will build up the immunity and make future attacks less likely.

If you wish to ask for any further information or clarifications on this health challenge or any herbal supplements for whooping cough, please contact the clinical herbalist/homeopath Oluwafunmise on 0802 836 6901 or 0818 355 4665