It’s been a tough season for those of us with asthmatic bronchitis not to mention covid. Learn ways that may naturally strengthen your respiratory system and heal your lungs from covidHere are some ‘gotta have LUNG-LOVING HERBS to place in your HERBAL CABINET (which replaced the Medicine Cabinet in my home nearly 2 decades ago).
Quercetin was one of the first herbs I was introduced to back when I was in college working at GNC. In various preclinical studies, it has been demonstrated that 4 fold increase in plasma quercetin levels significantly decreased lung inflammation and prevented progression. Quercetin is a plant flavonoid and has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In a preclinical model of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), quercetin reduced markers of both oxidative stress and lung inflammation and also reduced rhinovirus-induced progression of lung disease. I 100% use just as the seasons commence combined with bromelain.
Bromelain, the enzyme in pineapples, can help reduce phlegm, making it easier to breathe. It also reduces swelling, and pineapple juice has been known to help reduce coughing.
Turmeric
The compound in this spice, called curcumin is a natural anti-inflammatory, reduces the toxins that induce inflammation and it may prevent the activation of inflammation proteins. Also as an antioxidant fights of free radicals and by neutralizing them reduces inflammation in the lungs. Turmeric helps in breaking down mucus and lessens the removal of the mucus from the airways, relieving your cough and improving the ability to take a deep breath.
Osha root
Native Americans have used this plant for respiratory support. It is also known by the name bear root. Camphor and other compounds that can be found in the root of this plant have the power to encourage the proper functioning of the lungs. By improving the blood circulation this root helps the lungs to take a deeper breath.
Oregano
The oregano’s compounds are known as natural decongestants and histamine reducers. They have a direct and beneficial influence on the nasal passage and the respiratory tract. Besides, oregano essential oil is more effective than antibiotics when it comes to Staphylococcus aureus treatment. The oregano oil can help in boosting your immune system, healthy digestion, and fighting allergies
Thyme
Usually used in the kitchen as a spice, but this herb has very powerful health benefits. It has antibacterial properties and it can be used to stop persistent cough, lower blood pressure, boost the immune system as it has a lot of vitamin C, and vitamin A. This herb fights respiratory infections and it serves as an antiseptic, relieving mucus from the lungs.
Mullein
An herbal extract made of the leaves and flowers of mullein is very often used for strengthening the lungs. It is also able to eliminate mucus from the lungs, lower respiratory tract inflammation, and detoxes the bronchial tubes. Both mullein tea and tincture are effective. Native Americans even smoked dried leaves of this plant to help lungs in relieving respiratory coughing and to relax the airways when breathing became difficult.
Lungwort
Lungwort or Pulmonaria Officinalis is used a long time as natural medicine. Since the 1600s, this plant has been used for improving lung and respiratory health. Its powerful compounds can encourage the removal of harmful organisms affecting respiratory health. This powerful plant has many beneficial properties like antioxidant, anti-irritant, digestive, diuretic, and antibiotic.
Lobelia
Probably one of the most available and powerful herbal remedies. Lobeline which can be found in Lobelia’s extract is an alkaloid that has been proven effective in relaxing airways, and making the mucus thinner breaks up congestion. This plant can relax the muscles and ease breathing, that’s why it is used to relieve pneumonia and bronchitis. Native Americans used lobelia as an asthma treatment.
Licorice root
This root is useful in many ways and that has made it one of the most consumed herbs around the world. It can soften the mucous membranes of the throat; it can detox inflamed mucous membranes; calm irritated throat; soften the phlegm in the respiratory tract; great in reducing bronchial spasms. Moreover, licorice can prevent the formation of lung cancer cells.
Eucalyptus
The aroma of eucalyptus has been used by Aborigines, Germans, and Americans to improve the health of the respiratory system. These days, eucalyptus is present almost in every cough syrup. There is a compound in eucalyptus called cineole which has the power to soothe irritated sinuses, relief from coughing, and can fight off congestion. Eucalyptus also contains antioxidants and it’s good to have around as an aid in supporting the immune system. By using eucalyptus you can help your body to improve blood circulation and minimize mucus in the lungs.
Ginger
Another healing root that we always have a benefit from. Whether you are eating ginger or making a tea or a tincture, you can’t go wrong. Its anti-inflammatory properties help in removing toxins from the respiratory tract. Ginger reduces inflammation and breaks down mucus in your lungs. This spice has many vitamins and minerals that help the body overall.
Coltsfoot
Coltsfoot is a plant. A flower from the daisy family. As a natural medicine usually is used in tea form, using only the leaves of the plant. Several studies show that this plant can have anti-inflammatory properties. Great for reducing coughing, asthma, respiratory infections, flu, fever, and bronchitis symptoms.
Chapparel
Native Americans used this flowering herb for lung cleansing, and other respiratory problems such as bronchitis, colds, and congestion. It contains antioxidants which can prevent irritations where the NDGA can fight off histamine response. Research indicates that this plant may have resistance to bacteria and fungus.
In addition, we give you an easy recipe for a natural elixir that may help in cleansing your lungs.
Recipe
Ingredients:
* 1L water
* 1tsp sugar
* 400 gr. Onion
* 1 clove of garlic
* 2 tsp turmeric
* 1 piece ginger (about the size of your thumb)
Preparation:
Put the water on the stove and add the sugar. Leave it to boil for a bit. After adding the onion chopped to bigger pieces, add the ginger chopped in small pieces and the clover of garlic. Leave it to boil. When it will be boiling hard add turmeric and lower the temperature of the stove. Leave it to boil a bit more until the mixture is half of the starting volume. Drain and put the liquid in a glass jar. Leave the jar on room temperature and after it’s cold put it in the fridge.
Dosage:
Consume 2 tsp in the morning before breakfast and again 2 hours after dinner.
Extra tip!
You can prepare an inhalation with etheric oils from eucalyptus and peppermint.
Simply boil water and add a few drops of eucalyptus and peppermint oil to the water. Inhale the warm vapor. This will relax and relieve your airways and will help you with your breathing.
You can repeat this 2-3 times a week.
Use this inhalation for flu, cold, bronchitis, or other respiratory issues.
You can choose to try improving your health by following healthy habits and by adding foods and herbs to your diet that can help in strengthening your immune system.
Nature is your best medicine!