Natural Cough Relief: Exploring the Efficacy of Andrographis, Bilberry, Reishi Mushroom and N-Acetyl Cysteine in Max Breath Ease

According to the Canadian Lung Association, coughing is normal. It represents an involuntary reflex to expel irritating foreign substances. Cough is one of the most common symptoms experienced during respiratory infections such as colds or flu. However, acid reflux may also cause cough.

Many people seek natural alternatives to over-the-counter medications to find cough relief. Max Breathe Ease is a promising natural product solution formulated with Andrographis, Bilberry, Reishi mushroom and N-acetyl cysteine (NAC). Each of these ingredients has been studied for its potential to alleviate respiratory symptoms, including cough, and together they offer a powerful, synergistic blend for those looking for natural relief.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the science behind the ingredients of Max Breathe Ease, their efficacy for natural cough relief, and what peer-reviewed literature suggests about their suitability for other respiratory conditions.

Andrographis: A Powerful Herbal Remedy for Respiratory Health

Andrographis paniculata, also known as “the king of bitters,” has long been used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and immune-boosting properties. Recent studies support its use in alleviating symptoms of upper respiratory infections, particularly coughs.

Clinical Evidence Supporting Andrographis for Cough Relief

A meta-analysis published in the journal Phytomedicine reviewed the efficacy of Andrographis in treating upper respiratory tract infections. It concluded that Andrographis significantly reduced the severity and duration of coughs, sore throats, and nasal congestion. A notable human clinical trial involving 223 patients with respiratory infections showed that a standardized extract of Andrographis reduced coughing intensity and frequency after just five days of treatment. The dosage used in this study was 200 mg of Andrographis extract twice daily.

Bilberry: Antioxidant Support for Respiratory Health

Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) is a potent source of anthocyanins, a group of antioxidants known for their anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating effects. While bilberry has been primarily studied for eye health, research has also highlights its role in supporting respiratory function, thanks to its ability to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the airways.

Bilberry’s Role in Alleviating Cough and Respiratory Symptoms

Research suggests that bilberry’s antioxidant properties may help mitigate the oxidative stress associated with respiratory infections, thus relieving symptoms like coughing. While direct studies on bilberry for cough relief are limited, its general anti-inflammatory effec

ts on the respiratory system make it a valuable ingredient in a natural health product for cough relief. The effective dosage often cited for bilberry’s health benefits is around 80-120 mg of bilberry extract daily, standardized to contain 25% anthocyanins.

Reishi Mushroom: Immune Modulation and Respiratory Support

Reishi mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum) is a highly revered medicinal mushroom with a wide range of health benefits. Known for its adaptogenic properties, Reishi has been used traditionally to boost immunity, reduce inflammation, and support lung health.

Research on Reishi Mushroom for Cough and Respiratory Conditions

A study published in The Journal of Ethnopharmacology showed that Reishi extract significantly improved lung function and reduced cough symptoms in individuals with chronic bronchitis. Reishi’ s immune- modulation can also help the body fend off respiratory infections, further reducing the likelihood of persistent coughing.

The typical dosage for Reishi mushroom extract in respiratory studies ranges from 100 to 300 mg per day, depending on the standardization of the extract.

N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC): A Mucolytic Agent for Cough Relief

N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) is a well-established mucolytic agent, meaning it helps break down mucus, making it easier to expel from the lungs. By thinning mucus, NAC can reduce coughing triggered by excessive mucus buildup in the respiratory tract. Its antioxidant properties also help reduce inflammation in the airways.

Clinical Studies Supporting NAC for Respiratory Health

NAC has been extensively studied for its effectiveness in treating chronic bronchitis, a condition characterized by excessive coughing and mucus production. A randomized controlled trial involving 1,392 patients found that daily NAC supplementation significantly reduced the frequency and severity of coughs over a 6-month period. The effective cough relief dosage was 600 mg of NAC twice daily.

NAC has also been used to support lung health in people with respiratory conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma, which often involve persistent coughing.

Synergy of Andrographis, Bilberry, Reishi and NAC for Cough Relief

The combination of these four powerful ingredients in a natural health product offers a holistic and natural approach to cough relief:

• Andrographis works to reduce inflammation and symptoms of upper respiratory infections, including cough.
• Bilberry provides antioxidant protection, helping to calm inflammation in the airways.
• Reishi mushroom supports the immune system and helps modulate respiratory function to ease coughing.
• NAC targets the root cause of many coughs by breaking down mucus and making it easier to expel.

Together, these ingredients address not only the symptom of coughing but also the underlying causes, such as mucus buildup, inflammation, and immune dysfunction.

Potential Utility for Other Respiratory Disorders

While this formulation is highly effective for cough relief, it may also be beneficial for other respiratory conditions, including:

• Chronic Bronchitis: NAC and Reishi have been studied extensively for their ability to reduce mucus production and inflammation in patients with chronic bronchitis.
• COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease): NAC’s mucolytic properties and Reishi’ s immune modulation can provide relief for COPD sufferers, who often experience chronic cough and difficulty breathing.
• Asthma: Andrographis and Reishi mushroom may help reduce inflammation in the airways, providing a complementary approach to managing asthma symptoms, including coughing.
• Seasonal Allergies: Bilberry’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties may help reduce airway irritation caused by allergies, which often leads to coughing.

Conclusion: A Natural, Effective Approach to Cough Relief

For those seeking natural cough relief, Max Breathe Ease is a formulation containing Andrographis, Bilberry, NAC, and Reishi mushroom offers a safe, evidence-backed solution. With peer-reviewed studies supporting the efficacy of each ingredient, this combination provides both immediate and long-term benefits for respiratory health. Beyond alleviating coughs, it may also offer broader benefits for individuals with chronic respiratory conditions, making it a valuable addition to any natural health regimen.

As always, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, particularly for individuals with pre-existing health conditions or those taking prescription medications.

References:

1. https://www.lung.ca/lung-health/lung-diseases/chronic-cough
2. Coon, J.T., & Ernst, E. (2004). Andrographis paniculata in the treatment of upper respiratory tract infections: A systematic review of safety and efficacy. Phytomedicine, 11(4), 356-368.
3. Melchior, J., Spasov, A.A., et al. (2000). Double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot evaluation of Andrographis paniculata extract in patients with uncomplicated upper-respiratory tract infection. Phytomedicine, 7(5), 341-350.
4. Poole, P.J., Black, P.N. (2001). Oral mucolytic drugs for exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: Systematic review. BMJ, 322(7297), 1271-1274.
5. Chang, H.M., But, P.P. (1987). Pharmacology and Applications of Chinese Materia Medica. World Scientific Publishing.