10 Plants and Herbs That Boost Lung Health

Pollution, dust, infections, climate change all contribute to respiratory problems and make it difficult for us to maintain the lung health. A respiratory tract infection takes longer time to heal even with the most advanced medications. So if you are looking for an alternate solution, watch out for herbal medicines. They not only address the problem, but also boost lung health and cleanse the lungs. They repair lung damages and build immunity.

Herbs That Boost Lung Health

Peppermint

Peppermint is full of herbal volatile menthol, which is excellent for respiratory conditions such as cold, bronchitis, congestion, etc. Its bronchodilator properties open up the airways and increase the airflow. It loosens phlegm and breaks up congestion. Above all, peppermint is a wonderful lung cleansing product that soothes and improves lung health.

Thyme

The plant possesses potent antibacterial and antifungal properties. It is a strong decongestant and a lung strengthener. It is effective for treating both dry and wet cough due to the effects of thymol, a powerful expectorant as well as an antitussive agent. Its infection fighting abilities makes it a good remedy for cold, flu, bronchitis, and even asthma.

Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus is widely known for its expectorant, decongestant, antispasmodic and antibiotic properties. Cineole is the compound responsible for the respiratory health supporting properties of eucalyptus. In addition to the soothing effects and immune boosting properties, eucalyptus oil is supposed to strengthen and cleanse the lungs.

Oregano

Oregano is a good inclusion in your medicine store for protecting the lung health. The flavonoids, carvacrol, and other phytochemicals have a positive effect on the respiratory health and fight infection. These compounds increase airflow, loosen phlegm and prevent allergy attacks.

Sage

Sage has been traditionally used to cure lung disorders. It is useful for treating sore throat, sinus, cold, and cough. The herb is a strong antibacterial agent and decongestant. A warm sage tea will soothe the respiratory tract, reduce congestion, curb sniffling, and boost immunity.

Plantain Leaves

The name would remind you of the banana leaf at once but do not get confused as plantago is a weed that could be seen in many yards. These tiny plants possess high medicinal value and are wonderful lung support. They contain antibacterial, antifungal, as well as anti-inflammatory properties. They are beneficial for treating cold, cough, lung irritation, etc.

Licorice Root

Among the impressive list of herbs that support lung health, licorice root finds its place among the top ten. It has been used in Chinese medicine to boost lung health. Its phlegm thinning properties helps relieve congestion and improves airflow and eases breathing. Its anti-inflammatory properties soothe the throat and reduce irritation.

Coltsfoot

Coltsfoot helps in clearing out excess mucus from bronchial tubes and the lungs. Besides soothing the mucus membrane, it also helps to clear cough, bronchitis, asthma and several other lung conditions. It is available in the form of tea or tincture.

Osha Root

The herb is grown in the Rocky Mountainous regions and is widely used for respiratory support. Camphor and other constituents present in the root of this plant make it an excellent lung-support herb. It also helps in increasing circulation in the lungs thereby making it easier to breathe.

Lobelia

This herb is widely used as ‘asthamador’. Lobelia extracts contain lobeline, which breaks up congestion. Besides, it stimulates adrenal glands thereby helping in releasing epinephrine. This compound relaxes the airways thus making breathing easier. As the herb helps in relaxing smooth muscles, it is used as a remedy for cough and cold too.