Herbal medicines: current use in the treatment of respiratory infections

The article investigates the causes and mechanisms of coughing and the treatment choice. Phytotherapy has a special role in the treatment of acute respiratory infections. Biologically active substances of plants integrate into metabolic processes more naturally, treatment with herbal medicines is distinguished by better tolerance, lower frequency of side effects and complications. High biological activity and a wide therapeutic index (the relationship between toxic and therapeutic dosing) can also be designated as advantages of medicinal plants. The article presents research data showing the miscellaneous effects of herbal medicines on the pathogenesis of cough: sputum production, improving the drainage function of the bronchi, as well as antimicrobial effect. The article discusses the pharmacological properties of drugs containing combinations of herbal extracts as active ingredients: thyme, ivy and primrose. Thyme has anti-inflammatory, antiviral and antibacterial effects due to blocking the growth of various strains of bacteria and fungi. Ivy leaf extract is characterized by similar properties. Primrose root extract has expectorant, secretolytic, anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. It is important to note that the use of a combination of extracts provides a more significant clinical effect compared to the sum of the effects of the individual ingredients. A review of key clinical studies confirming the effectiveness of the use of combinations of thyme, ivy and primrose extracts (approved for medical use in the Russian Federation in the form of drugs Bronchipret and Bronchipret TP) in adults and children for cough and other symptoms of acute respiratory infections treatment. The compatibility of herbal medicines with other drugs for the treatment of respiratory pathology has been noted.