Herbs can provide a natural means to support lung health, ease inflammation, and clear mucus. Whether you’re managing a passing cold or a long-term respiratory issue, including these herbs in your daily habits may offer notable relief. It’s key to use herbs thoughtfully and seek advice from a healthcare professional, particularly if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or on medication. By integrating age-old practices with current scientific knowledge, you can use nature’s strength to promote easier breathing and a healthier life.
There are a number of herbs that have been used in traditional medicine to help improve lung health, function, reduce inflammation, and also help in the removal of mucus. The following is a list of 30 herbs and their benefits together with guidelines on how to use them.
1. Plantain Leaf (Plantago major)
Plantain leaf is a perennial herb originating in Europe, northern, and Central Asia – now widely grown throughout the world. It has been used over centuries as a traditional medicine to provide relief and treat respiratory ailments.
Active Components
The active components of plantain leaf are very effective in providing relief and also very beneficial to the lung: Mucilage is useful in aiding in the relief of coughs, in soothing irritation of the mucous membranes, and in reducing inflammation. Flavonoids are known to have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant activities which will help prevent the formation of mucus and protect the lung tissue . Tannins in the plantain leaves also assist in reducing excess mucus production and inflamed tissues. Last, allantoin, a metabolite of the body, helps in the repair of the tissue in the respiratory tract and soothes the irritated tissue.
How it benefits lung health and clears mucus
All these components work together to reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract, remove and expel excess mucus, making it easier to breathe and protect your lung tissue from damage caused by respiratory infections and environmental irritations such as air pollution.
Preparation and administration
Plantain leaf can be prepared in a number of ways. It can be brewed to make tea, combining plantain tea with honey to work as a cough syrup or as a poultice, and rubbing it on the chest to relieve congestion and inflammation. It can also be administered as a tincture.
2. Osha Root (Ligusticum porteri)
Osha Root is a herb found in parts of the Rocky Mountains of North America, New Mexico, and especially the southwestern United States. Native Americans and in Hispanic people have traditionally used it in medicine to treat several respiratory conditions and other lung problems. Its antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties make it very valuable to better lung health.
Active Components
Osha Root contains many active ingredients that may aid in relief from congestion, flu, colds, and bronchitis, amongst other benefits to lung health. Phthalides, which are compounds responsible for the Osha root’s expectorant properties which help treat coughs, land oosen and expel mucus from the lungs. Camphor, which is one of Osha root’s volatile oils, acts as a decongestant, aiding in the relief of nasal and chest congestion (i.e. it helps you to breathe!). Terpenes have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract and fight against infections such as bronchitis, sore throats and asthma. Saponins have antimicrobial activities that fight off harmful bacteria and viruses while also assisting in the removal of excess mucus.
How it benefits lung health and clears mucus
Osha root’s compounds work together to benefit lung health and clear excess mucus by promoting mucus’s expulsion from the lungs. It reduces inflammation, helps combat respiratory infections that cause excess mucus buildup and protect lung tissue through its antioxidative properties. It must be noted that research on Osha root’s health benefits is still ongoing and inconclusive, so it is advised to contact your health professional before administering Osha root.
Preparation and administration
Osha root can be administered as tea by boiling dried Osha root in water, through steam inhalation or as capsules (which should be administered by a healthcare provider or certified manufacturer). Due to the Osha root being placed under the United Plant Saver’s list of endangered herbs and its extreme difficulty in sourcing the herb, it may be difficult to get hold of or purchase Osha root.
3. Turmeric (Curcuma longa)
Turmeric which is native to India and Southeast Asia, but now cultivated in tropical regions worldwide. Known mainly for enhancing flavour to culinary dishes, Turmeric is also used for its potential health benefits – it also has been used for thousands of years in Ayurvedic medicine and traditional Chinese medicine as treatment for respiratory, skin and digestive ailments.
Active Components
The primary active compound in turmeric, Curcumin, has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties which aid in reducing inflammation in the airways and protecting the lungs from oxidative stress. Turmerones, these volatile oils have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to fight respiratory infections and reduce mucus production. Flavonoids which enhance the immune system and reduce inflammation, improving lung health.
How it benefits lung health and clears mucus
One of Turmeric’s primary components, Curcumin, reduces inflammation of the respiratory tract, relieving symptoms of respiratory conditions. Turmeric loosens and expels excess mucus, aiding in alleviating congestion. Antioxidant properties in turmeric help with protecting the lungs from oxidative damage and boost the immune system to combat lung infections.
Preparation and administration
Turmeric can be prepared as “Golden Milk” by mixing turmeric powder, a pinch of black pepper, and honey into warm milk. It can also be prepared as a tea, inhaled through dropping turmeric essential oils in hot water or consumed as capsules. Other methods are introducing it to your soups and broths or your curries.
4. Ginseng (Panax ginseng)
Ginseng is a plant native to East Asia, particularly Korea, China, and Siberia. For centuries, it’s been used in traditional medicine for its various health benefits, including boosting your immune system and supporting respiratory health.
Active Components
The primary active compounds in ginseng, ginsenosides, contain antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties which reduce inflammation and improve lung function. Polyacetylenes are known for their antimicrobial properties, which help combat respiratory infections that can lead to mucus buildup. Polysaccharides compounds boost your immune system and can prevent further infection by protecting your lungs.
How it benefits lung health and clears mucus
Ginseng improves lung health and is known to treat respiratory tract infections by reducing inflammation, enhancing immune defences, and increasing overall lung function. It also safeguards your lungs and body from further infection.
Preparation and administration
Ginseng can be consumed in a myriad of ways, including in tea, soups or broths, as a tincture or in capsules to improve respiratory health.
5. Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus)
Eucalyptus is a tall evergreen tree originally native to Australia, now cultivated worldwide. It’s used for its decongestant, anti-inflammatory, and for its antimicrobial properties and commonly used to treat respiratory conditions and for medicinal properties.
Active Components
The primary active compound in eucalyptus, eucalyptol helps break down mucus, reduce inflammation, and fight respiratory infections due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Other volatile oils like terpenes help fight respiratory infections and reduce excess mucus production commonly associated with colds, flus and bronchitis.
How it benefits lung health and clears mucus
Eucalyptus active compounds, its flavonoids, eucalyptol and terpenes work together to relieve congestion, reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract and fight bacterial and viral respiratory infections which can cause excess mucus production.
6. Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus)
Rosemary is an evergreen herb native to the Mediterranean region but now is cultivated worldwide. Known for adding a fragrant, savoury flavour to culinary dishes, it is also used as a medicinal plant, and aromatic ingredient in essential oils due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Active Components
Rosemary contains several compounds that benefit respiratory health, namely rosmarinic acid, which clears airways by reducing inflammation; Carnosic Acid & Carnosol, which, due to its anti-inflammatory effects, better supports and bolsters lung functionality. Eucalyptol, also found in Eucalyptus, has mucus-thinning properties, aiding in relief from congestion.
How it benefits lung health and clears mucus
Rosemary’s combined bioactive compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping in the reduction of airway inflammation, mucus clearance and inflammation in lung tissues. Other compounds Alpha-Pinene & Campho further aid in easier breathing and reducing oxidative stress on the lungs.
Preparation and administration
Rosemary can be administered in various ways to support respiratory health. It can be prepared as a tea infusion using fresh sprigs or dried leaves, inhaled through steam therapy, or diffused as an essential oil to clear airways. For coughs and mucus, a rosemary syrup made with honey can provide soothing relief. Also, it can be used in your cooking to add incredible, savoury flavour.
7. Black Seed (Nigella sativa)
Black seed, also known as black cumin or kalonji, is a flowering plant native to Southwest Asia, parts of Africa and the Middle East. It’s been widely used in traditional medicine for thousands of years and is known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. It’s commonly used to treat respiratory conditions, increase immune functionality and alleviating allergies.
Active Components
The primary active compound in black seed, Thymoquinone, helps reduce inflammation in the airways, fights harmful bacteria, guards lung cells from damage and behaves as a remedy for ailments such as asthma and allergies. Nigellone helps relax the respiratory tract, making breathing easier. The healthy fats in black seed, like omega-3 and omega-6, help reduce inflammation and improve lung functionality. Alkaloids in black seed also help fight infections that affect the lungs and respiratory system.
How it benefits lung health and clears mucus
Black seed’s compounds work together to reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract. easing breathing, while also loosening and clearing mucus to relieve congestion. They help fight respiratory illnesses, and has been used to help ease those who suffer from chronic conditions such as asthma to alleviate and protect the lungs from damage caused by these ailments, promoting overall lung health.
Preparation and administration
Black seed can be administered in a number of ways, namely, through ingesting black seed oil, through capsules, black seed tea or through topical applications.
8. Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
Lavender is a fragrant perennial herb widely believed to have originated in the Mediterranean region, India and North Africa around 2500 years ago. Due to its fragrant properties, it’s believed to have been used to create perfumes and its medicinal uses are known for its antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. Lavender has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, aromatherapy, and culinary practices. Today, it is commonly used to treat anxiety, insomnia, skin conditions, and respiratory issues. The herb is also popular for its soothing aroma, which is often used in essential oils and teas.
Active Components
The active components in lavender that contribute to its benefits for lung health and mucus clearance include linalool, linalyl acetate, and terpenes. Linalool and linalyl acetate are responsible for lavender’s anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help reduce inflammation, help fight respiratory infections and further prevent infections. Cineole, a terpenes compound in lavender, acts as a natural expectorant, loosening and clearing mucus from the lungs.
How it benefits lung health and clears mucus
These compounds work together to soothe irritated airways, reduce mucus production, and improve overall respiratory function.Additionally, lavender’s volatile aromatic compounds have been known to improve health, alleviate and improve sufferers of bronchial asthma as well as have antibacterial properties which lead to better lung health and excess mucus production.
Preparation and administration
Lavender can be administered in several ways – through brewing tea, as an essential oil for aromatherapy (which includes steam inhalation) or through skin care products.
9. Elderberry (Sambucus nigra)
Elderberry is a flowering plant native to Europe and North America. It has been used in traditional medicine for centuries for its immune-boosting, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. It’s commonly used to treat colds, flu, sinus infections, and other viral respiratory conditions.
Active Components
Elderberries’ active compounds Anthocyanins and flavonoids help reduce inflammation and protect lung tissue from damage caused by environmental irritants and viral respiratory illness. Vitamins A, C, and B6 boost the immune system, promoting better lung health along with its Polyphenols, which have antibacterial and antiviral properties that combat respiratory infections.
How it benefits lung health and clears mucus
Elderberry is rich in antioxidants, has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, which aids in immune support and better respiratory health. Its active compounds help reduce airway inflammation, making breathing easier, while also loosening mucus to relieve congestion.
Preparation and administration
Elderberry can be taken as a syrup, tea, capsules, in a tincture or as an ingredient in various foods.
10. Peppermint (Mentha x piperita)
Peppermint is a hybrid mint plant, a cross between watermint and spearmint. Supposed to have originated in Northern Africa or the Mediterranean circa 1500 BC, it is now cultivated in Europe, Asia and North America and is sought after for its cooling, soothing, and medicinal properties.
Active Components
Peppermint’s primary active component, menthol, has a cooling effect and acts as a natural decongestant, relaxing the bronchial muscles. This aids in easier breathing and loosening mucus. Peppermint’s other compounds, rosmarinic acid, flavonoids, and menthone help fight against respiratory infections, enhance the expectorant properties of peppermint, and reduce inflammation, which all combat excess mucus production and lead to better lung health.
How it benefits lung health and clears mucus
Peppermint’s menthol properties act as a decongestant and an anti-inflammatory to clear mucus, reduce airway inflammation, and ease breathing. Its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties fight respiratory infections and protect lung tissue. Additionally, menthol’s cooling effect soothes irritated airways, while its muscle-relaxing benefits improve airflow.
Preparation and administration
Peppermint can be taken in various ways: Enjoy it as tea, as a cough syrup with honey, steam inhalation or applied to the chest.
11. Mullein (Verbascum thapsus)
Mullein is a biennial plant native to Europe, Asia and North Africa. It’s also now widespread in temperate regions worldwide, including North America. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for a myriad of health benefits. It is now widely used to treat respiratory conditions like bronchitis, asthma, and coughs. It also has uses in treating ear infections, skin conditions, and digestive issues.
Active Components
Mullein contains saponins which loosen mucus, promoting the clearing of excess mucus from the body, and flavonoids, such as quercetin that reduce inflammation and protect lung tissue. Mucilage, is a gel-like substance in Mullein that soothes irritated airways. Its coumarins have antimicrobial properties, which fight off respiratory infections.
How it benefits lung health and clears mucus
Together, these compounds active within Mullein support lung health by easing congestion, calming coughs, and promoting clearer breathing.
Preparation and administration
Mullein can be used as a tea to soothe the respiratory tract, a tincture for congestion relief, or a syrup with honey for coughs. Steam inhalation with dried leaves helps clear airways and ease breathing.
12. Green Tea (Camellia sinensis)
Green tea, derived from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, is a herb that is indigenous to China and Japan but currently grown and consumed in many regions of the world. It’s widely sought after and consumed for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting properties.
Active Components
Catechins, the main active compound in green tea, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that lessen inflammation. An amino acid, Theanine, strengthens the immune system and encourages relaxation. Green tea’s flavonoids have antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, aiding in lowering toxins in the body and lung inflammation. Green tea’s caffeine content may have bronchodilatory effects, aiding in, relaxing the muscles in the bronchi muscles and facilitating better breathing.
How it benefits lung health and clears mucus
Green tea supports lung health by reducing inflammation. Its mucolytic properties help loosen mucus, relieving congestion. These benefits make green tea effective as supplementary relief for respiratory conditions like asthma, bronchitis, and respiratory infections.
Preparation and administration
Green tea can be consumed as tea, matcha for a concentrated dose, or capsules. Steam inhalation with green tea essential oil helps clear up excess mucus and improves lung health.
13. Bergamot (Citrus bergamia)
Bergamot is a citrus fruit originally from Italy and mostly grown in the Calabria region. Because of its soothing, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial qualities, it is frequently used in aromatherapy, perfumery, and traditional medicine. It also promotes respiratory health and adds flavor to Earl Grey tea.
Active Components
Together, limonene, linalool, flavonoids, and bergapten, which are found in bergamot, promote lung health. Linalool calms inflamed respiratory tissues, while Limonene and flavonoids preserve lung tissue and prevent inflammation. Bergapten’s antibacterial properties aid in the prevention of respiratory infections and facilitate easier breathing.
How it benefits lung health and clears mucus
Bergamot oil can help with lung health by relieving congestion and making breathing easier due to its expectorant properties. Its anti-congestive and expectorant properties can clear nasal passages and loosen phlegm and mucus, which helps eliminate germs and toxins that cause illness.
Preparation and administration
To prepare bergamot for consumption, use its juice, zest, or peel in dishes, or brew it as tea (Bergamot oil is a component in Earl Grey Tea). It can be administered as oil in aromatherapy, topical applications, or ingested in supplements.
14. Horehound (Marrubium vulgare)
Horehound is a herb of Europe, North Africa, and Central Asia. It has been used for its medicinal properties, particularly for respiratory conditions and is found in cough syrups and candies.
Active Components
The active component of horehound for lung health is marrubiin, a bitter compound that’s an expectorant that helps clear mucus from the respiratory tract. Horehound also has flavonoids and phenolic compounds that are anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial, supporting lung function.
How it benefits lung health and clears mucus
Overall, horehound benefits lung health by reducing coughs, reducing mucus production, and relieving respiratory conditions due to its expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Preparation and administration
Horehound can be taken in various forms: leaves can be brewed into tea, or made into syrups or lozenges. It is also available as tinctures or capsules.
15. Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus)
Astragalus is a perennial herb native to China, Mongolia, and Korea. It has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for centuries to boost the immune system, treat respiratory infections and is often combined with other herbs to treat asthma, chronic fatigue syndrome, and stress-related conditions.
Active Components
The herb’s benefits for lung health and mucus clearance is due to its active components: polysaccharides, flavonoids, and saponins. Polysaccharides boost the immune system and reduce inflammation to minimize mucus production. Flavonoids are antioxidants that protect the lung cells from damage while saponins further support the immune system and reduce airway inflammation.
How it benefits lung health and clears mucus
Astragalus strengthens lung health by boosting the immune system, and reducing airway inflammation and mucus buildup. Its adaptogenic properties also help the body cope with stress, which indirectly benefits respiratory function.
Preparation and administration
Astragalus can be consumed in various forms. It is commonly prepared as a tea but is also available in capsules, tablets, and tinctures.
16. Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)
Thyme, is a herb with age-old usage in both culinary and medicinal applications. It has been used since ancient times, notably by the Egyptians for embalming and by the Romans as a symbol of bravery. Today, thyme is widely utilized in cooking throughout the world, particularly in Mediterranean dishes, and is recognized for its potential health benefits, including support for respiratory conditions.
Active Components
The active compounds in thyme that contribute to its positive effects on lung health and mucus reduction include thymol and carvacrol. Thymol is known for its antiseptic and antimicrobial properties, which help combat respiratory infections and reduce mucus production. Carvacrol also has antimicrobial effects, further supporting lung health by inhibiting the growth of harmful microorganisms.
How it benefits lung health and clears mucus
Thyme offers numerous benefits for lung health and mucus clearance. Its antimicrobial properties help prevent infections that can lead to increased mucus production while also reducing inflammation in the respiratory tract.
Preparation and administration
Thyme can be administered in various ways. It is often prepared as a tea but can be used fresh or dried in cooking, and added to soups or stews. Essential oil derived from thyme is also available but should be diluted properly.
Read More: 8 Useful Herbs for Memory and Brain Health
17. Oregano (Origanum vulgare)
Oregano, is a perennial herb that is native to the Mediterranean region and parts of western Asia. Commonly referred to as wild marjoram or Spanish thyme, oregano has been a staple in culinary traditions, especially in Italian and Greek cuisine, where it enhances the flavor of dishes like pasta sauces and pizza. Historically, oregano was revered by the ancient Greeks and Romans for its medicinal properties, believed to treat various ailments including respiratory issues.
Active Components
The active components of oregano include thymol and carvacrol. Thymol possesses strong antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate respiratory infections and reduce mucus production. Carvacrol also exhibits similar properties, supporting respiratory function by inhibiting harmful bacteria and promoting lung health.
How it benefits lung health and clears mucus
Oregano offers significant benefits for lung health and mucus clearance. Its antimicrobial properties help prevent respiratory infections that can lead to increased mucus production, while its anti-inflammatory effects support easier breathing by reducing airway inflammation.
Preparation and administration
Oregano is commonly used fresh or dried in cooking, adding flavor to dishes. Oregano tea can be prepared or oregano essential oil is available and can be administered through topical application or ingestion.
18. Schisandra (Schisandra chinensis)
Schisandra is a woody vine native to eastern Asia, particularly northeastern China, Korea, and Russia. Schisandra has been used medicinally for over 2,000 years in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
Active Components
In TCM, schisandra is believed to benefit the heart, lungs, and kidneys. It has traditionally been used to treat coughs and various nonspecific pulmonary diseases. In Japan, it is known as Gomishi and is used for people with weakness in the lungs, often displaying symptoms such as cough, weakness, and excess phlegm. Schisandrins A, B, and C, bioactive chemical compounds extracted from the berries, are thought to be the active components.
How it benefits lung health and clears mucus
Overall, schisandra is valued for its ability to support lung health, and potential to alleviate cough and respiratory weakness. It has been used traditionally to treat coughs and various non-specific pulmonary diseases.
Preparation and administration
Schisandra is typically administered as a fully ripe, sun-dried fruit. It is often taken as a tincture.
19. Elecampane (Inula helenium)
Elecampane is a perennial herb native to Europe and parts of Asia. This herb has a long history of medicinal use, dating back to ancient Greece and Rome, where it was used for its therapeutic properties, particularly for respiratory ailments. Traditionally, elecampane has been used to treat coughs, bronchitis, and other lung-related conditions due to its expectorant qualities.
Active Components
The active components of elecampane include alantolactones and inulin. Alantolactones possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce mucus production and soothe irritated airways. Inulin, polysaccharide, supports gut health and may enhance the immune response, further benefiting respiratory function.
How it benefits lung health and clears mucus
Elecampane’s expectorant properties help expel mucus from the respiratory tract, while its antimicrobial effects combat infections that can exacerbate respiratory issues.
Preparation and administration
Elecampane can be administered in various forms; the root is most commonly used. It can be prepared as a tea, taken as a tincture, or in capsule form.
20. Oregon Grape (Mahonia aquifolium)
Oregon grape is an evergreen shrub native to the Pacific Northwest of North America. This plant produces dark blue berries, which are often used to make jellies and wines. Traditionally, Native Americans utilized various parts of the Oregon grape for medicinal purposes, treating ailments such as skin diseases, digestive issues, and respiratory condition
Active Components
The active component in Oregon grapes that bolsters lung health is berberine, a compound known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Berberine aids in combating infections that may lead to increased mucus production while also promoting better respiratory health by reducing inflammation in the airways.
How it benefits lung health and clears mucus
Oregon grape offers significant benefits through its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Its antimicrobial properties help prevent respiratory infections, while its anti-inflammatory effects support easier breathing by reducing airway inflammation.
Preparation and administration
Oregon grape can be administered through various forms: its root and inner bark are used to create tinctures or extracts, the dried root is steeped into tea, and the berries are consumed fresh or processed into jellies and wines.
21. Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica)
Bibhitaki is a large deciduous tree native throughout the Indian subcontinent, Srilanka, and Southeast Asia. Also known as baheda, bahera, or bastard myrobalan, its fruit is a key component in traditional Indian Ayurvedic medicine. The name “Bibhitaki” translates to “the fruit that takes away the fear of disease”
Active Components
Bibhitaki’s fruit pulp’s active compounds are beta-sitosterol, ethyl, gaelic, tannins, and elegiac acids, which boost digestion and healing. Bibhitaki contains anti-inflammatory and antibacterial features, aiding the treatment of throat and chest infections by opening up the respiratory pathways and easing breathing. It’s also known to remove excess mucus from the body. Its astringent properties aid with helping maintain better lung health.
How it benefits lung health and clears mucus
Esteemed in traditional medicine, Bibhitaki is known for its potential therapeutic actions. Astringent qualities, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties are attributed to it. These characteristics have made it useful for various health issues, including respiratory, digestive, and skin problems.
Preparation and administration
Bibhitaki is administered as its fruit, taken with salt and black pepper for throat and chest infections. It is also a key ingredient in Triphala, a herbal remedy. Bibhitaki can also be administered in powder form.
22. Lungwort (Pulmonaria officinalis)
Lungwort is a perennial herb native to Europe and western Asia. Lungwort has been traditionally used to treat lung, stomach, and urinary tract conditions, as well as for wound healing.
Active Components
Lungwort’s high mucilage content is believed to relieve respiratory ailments like asthma and chronic bronchitis. It may also possess antibiotic properties that help prevent and treat pulmonary infections, such as tuberculosis and other bacterial infections in the lungs. Lungwort is also thought to relieve cold, cough, and catarrh and possesses anti-irritant and soothing qualities to treat irritation in the lungs.
How it benefits lung health and clears mucus
Lungwort has been traditionally used to address various lung ailments due to its potential to soothe irritation, combat infections, and alleviate respiratory symptoms.
Preparation and administration
The leaves of the lungwort plant are typically used and consumed as tea or in tincture form.
23. Alfalfa (Medicago sativa)
Alfalfa is a herb and legume that has been cultivated for centuries as a nutrient-rich food source for livestock. Originating in South and Central Asia, alfalfa is now grown worldwide and known for its nutritional value and medicinal uses.
Active Components
The active compounds in alfalfa are Saponins, known for their ability to lower cholesterol levels and possibly having mucolytic properties, helping to reduce mucus production. Flavonoids and phenolic compounds provide antioxidant effects that combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the lungs, potentially improving overall respiratory function. The alfalfa leaves and seeds are also rich in vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients, including vitamin K, vitamin C, copper, and manganese.
How it benefits lung health and clears mucus
Alfalfa has been used in traditional medicine for respiratory conditions due to its anti-inflammatory and immune-strengthening properties. It may be helpful in easing symptoms of bronchitis, the flu, and the common cold, as well as other viral and bacterial infections. Research shows that alfalfa is rich in antioxidants, which may help lower inflammation – improving lung health and clearing respiratory pathways damaged by oxidative stress.
Preparation and administration
Alfalfa can be consumed in various forms, including seeds, sprouts, dried leaves as a supplement, or extract.
24. Marshmallow Root (Althaea officinalis)
Marshmallow root is a flowering plant native to Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa that has been used in herbal medicine for thousands of years. The medicinal properties of marshmallow root are attributed to its mucilage content that contains antioxidants and creates a coating over the skin and digestive tract.
Active Components
Marshmallow root contains bioactive compounds like saponins (e.g., myricetin), flavonoids, coumarins, and terpenoids that aid lung health by improving mucus clearance, reducing inflammation, and supporting immune function.
How it benefits lung health and clears mucus
Marshmallow root is valued for its soothing properties, particularly for coughs and throat irritation. Its mucilage content provides a coating effect that can alleviate discomfort in the respiratory tract.
Preparation and administration
Marshmallow root can be consumed in several forms, including as a powder, capsule, tea, or cough syrup.
25. Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum)
Cardamom, is an aromatic spice derived from the seeds of plants in the genera Elettaria and Amomum. These plants are native to India, Nepal, and Indonesia with the spice having a history dating back thousands of years. It is currently cultivated mainly in India, Indonesia, and Guatemala.
Active Components
The essential oils of cardamom contain cineole and α-terpinyl acetate which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that lower blood pressure and prevent infections. Cardamom has been used medicinally for thousands of years, most commonly to treat indigestion, asthma, and bad breath.
How it benefits lung health and clears mucus
Cardamom has been known to improve breathing by promoting the relaxation of the lungs and helping the intake of oxygen.
Preparation and administration
Cardamom, in its culinary applications. It can used in cooking and baking, in teas and also is available in various forms like supplements, extracts, powders, and essential oils.
26. Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is a herbaceous perennial plant likely native to southeastern Asia. It has a spicy and pungent flavor and is widely used as a spice, flavoring, in food, and as medicine. Its use dates back to ancient times in India and China and was carried to the Mediterranean region by the 1st century CE.
Active Components
Ginger’s bioactive compounds, namely, 6-shogaol, 6-gingerol, and 8-gingerol have been known to relax smooth muscle tissues in the airways of the lungs. These compounds could be beneficial to those suffering from asthma as a complementary addition to medication to alleviate symptoms caused by asthma and respiratory difficulties. Ginger is also known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
How it benefits lung health and clears mucus
While no conclusive research has found ginger to be entirely beneficial to mucus clearance, ginger is valued most for its flavor and potential health benefits.
Preparation and administration
Ginger can be consumed in many forms including eating the root itself, brewed in tea or taken in capsule form.
27. Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
Licorice is a perennial herb primarily grown in West Asia, North Africa, and southern Europe. It has been used since ancient times for flavoring and as an expectorant to help clear excess mucus from the upper and lower airways.
Active Components
Licorice’s most active compound, glycyrrhizin, is about 50 times sweeter than sugar. It contains anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, and anti-cancer properties and also acts as a demulcent, soothing, and coating agent. Licorice acts as an expectorant, meaning it helps get rid of phlegm.
How it benefits lung health and clears mucus
Licorice root has been used for thousands of years to help with a variety of illnesses. It acts as both a demulcent and an expectorant, soothing the airways and helping to get rid of phlegm.
Preparation and administration
Licorice root has been used as an ingredient in cough lozenges, syrups, and elixir.It can be consumed in teas, as a powder or in a tincture.
28. Cannabis (Cannabis sativa)
Cannabis is a flowering plant that has been cultivated for thousands of years for its psychoactive properties, medicinal uses, and fiber. Originating in Central Asia, cannabis has spread globally and is commonly used for recreational, therapeutic, and industrial purposes.
Active Components
The primary active components of cannabis are cannabinoids, particularly tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), which interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system to regulate various physiological processes.
How it benefits lung health and clears mucus
Cannabis may offer benefits due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Compounds like CBD can help reduce inflammation in the airways, potentially easing symptoms of respiratory conditions. It’s important to note, that consuming cannabis through smoking or vaping still poses a threat as carcinogenic and can also introduce other chemicals adverse to lung health and the production of excess mucus.
Preparation and administration
Cannabis can be consumed in various forms, including dried buds for smoking or vaporization, oils and tinctures for sublingual use, capsules, teas, and edibles.
29. Pushkarmool (Inula racemosa)
Pushkarmool, also known as Indian elecampane, is a perennial herb used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. It is native to the North-Western Himalayan belt, including regions within India and Nepal.
Active Components
Pushkarmool’s active compounds, alantolactone (which holds anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties) and inulin, a probiotic fiber, are known for their effectiveness in treating a myriad of respiratory problems like asthma, cough, and chest pain. It can also relieve stress and has antiallergic properties.
How it benefits lung health and clears mucus
Pushkarmool is a valuable herb for addressing respiratory issues. Its active compound, Alantolactone helps reduce inflammation and clear mucus.
Preparation and administration
Pushkarmool is usually taken in the form of a powder or in capsule form. It can also be brewed in tea.
30. Malabar Nut (Justicia adhatoda)
Malabar Nut, is a small evergreen bush native to Asia, particularly the lower Himalayas and Africa. It has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for over 2000 years to treat respiratory disorders.
Active Components
The leaves of Malabar Nut contain carotene, vitamin C, and essential oils. The plant possesses sedative, expectorant, antispasmodic, antiseptic, anthelmintic, and blood-purifying properties. It’s known for removing phlegm and is useful in treating bronchitis, colds, whooping cough, asthma, tuberculosis, sore throats, and other lung and bronchial disorders.
How it benefits lung health and clears mucus
Malabar Nut is beneficial for respiratory health, effectively addressing issues like bronchitis, asthma, and excessive mucus, while also providing relief from coughs and sore throats.
Preparation and administration
Malabar Nut leaves can used in conjunction with honey to make a medical tea. It also comes in powder form.
In conclusion, while herbs can support lung health, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider before using any complementary treatments. Never discontinue prescribed medications without professional guidance, as they are vital for managing your health effectively. Always prioritize safe and informed choices
Read More: The Top 10 Medicinal Plants and Herbs for Your Health
Disclaimer: This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and is for information only. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about your medical condition and/or current medication. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking advice or treatment because of something you have read here.