How Are Herbs Beneficial for the Respiratory System?
Herbs that support lung health typically do so through several actions. They can soothe irritated nasal passages and airways, act as expectorants to help break up and expel chest congestion, relax the muscles near the upper respiratory system to quell a cough, calm the release of histamines, deter harmful organisms that produce upper respiratory issues, and provide antioxidants to reduce oxidative damage and redness.
9 Best Herbs for Lung Cleansing & Respiratory Health
Below are some of the best herbs to support respiratory health.
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus, native to Australia, is not just for koalas. Aborigines first used these tree leaves for gastrointestinal concerns, wound healing, fevers, and respiratory issues. After colonization, Australia began exporting the oils. Many people use the refreshing aroma of eucalyptus to promote respiratory health and soothe throat irritation. Eucalyptus is a common ingredient in cough lozenges and syrups due to a compound called cineole. Cineole acts as an expectorant, eases cough and congestion, and soothes irritated sinus passages. Additionally, eucalyptus contains antioxidants that support the immune system during a cold or other illness.
Lungwort
Lungwort is a flowering herb that resembles lung tissue in appearance. Since the 1600s, lungwort has been used to promote lung and respiratory health and clear congestion. It contains compounds that are effective against harmful organisms affecting respiratory health.
Oregano
Oregano contains vitamins and nutrients essential for the immune system, but its primary benefits come from carvacrol and rosmarinic acid. These compounds are natural decongestants and histamine reducers that positively impact the respiratory tract and nasal passage airflow. Oregano oil is highly beneficial and should be in everyone’s medicine cabinet. It blends well with other healthful oils. For a premium blend, consider Oregatrex, which combines organic oregano oil, peppermint, and cayenne oil in an organic extra virgin olive oil base. With a minimum of 80 percent carvacrol content, Oregatrex can help boost your immune system and promote good health.
Plantain Leaf
The plantain leaf (Plantago major) has been used for centuries to ease coughs and soothe irritated mucous membranes. Clinical trials have found it effective against cough, cold, and lung irritation. Plantain leaf may also help relieve a dry cough by promoting mucus production in the lungs.
Elecampane
Elecampane has been cited for respiratory support by Greeks, Romans, Chinese, and Indian Ayurvedic medicine practitioners. Since the 1800s, people have made lozenges and cough drops from elecampane root. It has a relaxing effect on smooth tracheal muscles due to two active compounds: inulin, which soothes bronchial passages, and alantolactone, an expectorant with antitussive action.
Lobelia
Lobelia is considered one of the most valuable herbal remedies. It contains an alkaloid known as lobeline, which thins mucus and breaks up congestion. Lobelia also stimulates the adrenal glands to release epinephrine, relaxing the airways and allowing for easier breathing. It is included in many cough and cold remedies and should be part of everyone’s respiratory support protocol.
Chaparral
Chaparral (Larrea tridentata), also known as creosote bush, is native to the southwest United States and has been appreciated by Native Americans for lung detoxification and respiratory support. Chaparral contains powerful antioxidants and NDGA (nordihydroguaiaretic acid), which influences histamine response. It also fights harmful organisms. The benefits of chaparral are most available in a tincture extraction, but chaparral tea may support respiratory concerns by encouraging an expectorant action to clear airways of mucus.
Peppermint
Peppermint and peppermint oil contain menthol, a soothing ingredient known to relax the smooth muscles of the respiratory tract and promote free breathing. Menthol is a fantastic decongestant with antihistamine effects. Many people use therapeutic chest balms and other inhalants containing menthol to help break up congestion. Additionally, peppermint is an antioxidant and fights harmful organisms.
Osha Root
Osha (Ligusticum porteri) is an herb native to the Rocky Mountain area and has historically been used by Native Americans for respiratory support. The roots contain camphor and other compounds, making it one of the best lung-support herbs in America. Osha root helps increase circulation to the lungs, making it easier to take deep breaths. It also produces a similar effect to antihistamines, helping to calm respiratory irritation during seasonal sensitivities.
Supplementing With Lung Support Herbs
All of the above herbs are available in various forms such as nutritional supplements and tea. Many people grow herbs in their garden and consume them as food, which is a great idea. Growing them yourself ensures a good source. If not, it can be challenging to know if nutritional supplements use organic herbs, contain pesticides, are ethically harvested, given clean water, etc. Always ask questions and verify that you’re getting the best product possible. For convenience, consider Global Healing’s Lung Health, which contains several of the herbs listed above, as well as lovage, lemon balm, orange peel, and menthol.
How to Cleanse Your Lungs Naturally
Check out our article on 10 Ways to Detox Your Lungs!
