Definition of Expectorant:
Expectorants (L. ex, out of, + pectus, pectoris, the breast). These change the broncho-pulmonary mucous membrane secretion, promoting its expulsion:
- Nauseating (Sedative) - which, in large doses, cause vomiting, thereby acting mechanically in expelling the mucus, and, in small doses, increase osmosis from the inflamed mucous membrane; they may increase secretion and lower blood-pressure: tartar emetic; ipecac, apomorphine, lobelia, pilocarpus;
Stimulating - which stimulate the bronchial mucous membrane that eliminates them, altering the secretion and facilitating expectoration: senega, squill, ammonium carbonate and chloride, benzoin, balsam of Peru, Tolu, pine tar, turpentine, garlic, onion, glycyrrhiza, saccharine substances, ammoniac [Culbreth1927, pg 42].
Expectorants are medicines capable of facilitating the excretion of mucus from the chest [Brown1878; Meyer1932].
A remedy that encourages the passage of phlegm up the throat or up the bronchial apparatus with a "mucociliary escalator". Stimulating expectorants (Inula), are useful with excessive mucous secretion or when mucous secretion is thickened as part of an inflammatory reaction and will lead to a productive cough. For dry and irritable conditions, a relaxing expectorant is indicated to sooth spasm and loosen mucous secretion. (Eg. Coltsfoot, Hyssop, Marshmallow.) [Sanchez BOTM680].
Detergent of lung tissue; helps in detox for lungs. Releases lung congestion. Stimulating and soothing kinds [Palmer2004].