RSV Tea Blend

Recently, my family had RSV. If you're not familiar with it, RSV is a respiratory virus (respiratory syncytial virus) that is typically worse in babies, young children, and those with a compromised immune system or conditions like asthma or COPD. In adults, it presents like a minor cold.

A few of us developed a cough that would not quit and a super thick mucus that was exhausting to cough up.

Naturally, I headed to my apothecary to see what I could make, because none of my go-to recipes were cutting it. After a little bit of prayer and experimenting, this is what ended up working so well for us, that we not only stopped hacking to the point of exhaustion, but we actually felt better overall.

We found that the key to this blend it to drink it every 2 hours, and stay hydrated with electrolytes and water in between. Hydration is KEY for keeping that thick mucus under control.

The Herbs

Mullein

Of course, we're reaching for Mullein with a respiratory illness. Mullein is known for it's ability to help tone the lungs and act as a mild expectorant.

Slippery Elm Bark

Slippery Elm has an incredible gelatinous substance called mucilage. This herbal gold is incredible for helping to soothe irritated mucus membranes, and also to balance the moisture levels in the lining of the lungs.

Wild Cherry Bark

Normally, we don't want to suppress a cough. The purpose of a cough is to clear what shouldn't be in the airway. But, sometimes they get so excessive that it can cause inflammation, If you have an excessive cough, Wild Cherry Bark should be on your list of go-to's. It has antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties that calm down the irritated throat and lungs, and a sedative property that tells the reactive nerves in the throat and lungs to relax.

Hyssop

Hyssop is a natural expectorant, antispasmodic, antiseptic, and antimicrobial herb. It helps soothe sore throats, and is a wonder for those aggressive coughs that accompany RSV. The expectorant property in particular is helpful when dealing with the this virus. It helps to break apart the thick mucus that is common, which is necessary in order to clear it out of the lungs and sinuses. 

Remember, any time you are using an herb or a pharmaceutical that has expectorant properties, you HAVE to stay good and hydrated. Hydration is what keeps the mucus thin and easy to clear.

Thyme

This is the powerhouse herb in this tea blend. Thyme does a little bit of everything, incredibly well. It is great for sore throats, viruses, infections, it helps with hacking coughs, and it has has antispasmodic and expectorant properties too.

A little goes a long way with this powerful little herb though. You want it's power, but not its strong flavor in this blend.

Directions

• Add 2 TBS the Slippery Elm Bark (or Marshmallow Root) and the Wild Cherry Bark to a kettle and fill it with water
• Boil the water and herb
• Once boiled, remove from heat
• Add 1 TBS total of the remaining herbs
• Steep for 10 minutes together
• Strain, cool to a warm temperature and add raw honey

This blend can be consumed 3-4 times a day, but be sure each of these herbs are safe for you and do not have any contraindications for you before you consume them.

Inhalation

For people that cannot drink tea, like small children or those that just don't like tea, you can still get the benefits through another route...inhalation.

• Boil a kettle full of water
• Pour the water into a large bowl
• Add the herbs
• Cover your head with a large towel and breathe deep

Herbal properties are carried in steam as well, so breathe deep and bring a few tissues. This approach will have your sinuses draining fast.