7 Best Lung Cleansing Herbs According to Research
The health of our lungs is of utmost importance. Lungs play a vital role in gas exchange by supplying the body with oxygen and expelling waste gas. With the increase in pollution, toxins, and environmental irritants, the need to keep our lungs and cleanse the respiratory system in check has become more crucial.
While there are various methods of maintaining the health of the lungs, herbs are a natural approach that has potential benefits for the lungs. Although scientific research is still limited, anecdotal evidence shows that herbs have been used in lungs health throughout history.
Let’s look at some of the best lung cleansing herbs to help you clear your congested lungs.
Best Lung Cleansing Herbs
1. Licorice root
Licorice root has been treasured for centuries for its powerful healing properties. Originating from the Mediterranean and parts of Asia, licorice root was traditionally used to treat cough, sore throat, and asthma.
Licorice root has a unique composition of expectorant, anti-inflammatory, and soothing properties. It alleviates inflammation in the respiratory system and provides a soothing effect to prevent lung irritation.
The expectorant compound in licorice root helps to loosen and expel the mucus in the respiratory passage. It also helps to clear and soothe the bronchial passageway, leaving you with a clean respiratory system.
How to use it: Licorice root is one of the most embraced lung cleansing herbs. You can consume it as a tea or a tincture.
2. Eucalyptus
The refreshing scent of eucalyptus harbors many health benefits, especially for the lungs. Native to Australia, eucalyptus has long been revered for its effectiveness in cleansing the lungs.
The effectiveness of eucalyptus is attributed to three fundamental properties: expectorant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. Research shows that eucalyptus acts as an expectorant and helps to loosen and expel mucus from the lungs, relieving congestion.
Eucalyptus possesses natural antimicrobial properties due to its essential oil content. It contains compounds such as eucalyptol, which have shown antimicrobial effects against harmful microbes from smoke and pollutants.
The antioxidant properties prevent the inflammation of the lungs and the bronchial passage. It also has compounds that mitigate the inflammation of the respiratory system, which leads to the narrowing of the airways and increased mucus production.
How to use it: Inhale the steam of boiling water with a few drops of eucalyptus oil, or use it in a diffuser.
3. Peppermint
Peppermint is versatile, with a refreshing scent known for its soothing and relieving effects. From its ability to cleanse the colon, it is the best Ayurveda medicine for respiratory issues.
This beloved herb has a unique medicinal composition that makes it an effective ally in cleansing the lungs. Its cooling actions of menthol (a chemical found in inhalers) and antihistamine effects make it a potent decongestant. It loosens mucus in the throat, nose, and lungs, allowing proper passage of air.
One research shows that peppermint oil has antispasmodic properties, meaning it can help to relax and soothe the muscles of the respiratory tract. It acts as a bronchodilator and helps to reduce the respiratory system. Bronchodilator means opening the bronchioles and allowing easy passage of air. This process reduces shortness of breath, which is associated with asthma.
How to use it: Consume peppermint tea or inhale the steam from the peppermint-infused water.
4. Oregano
The aromatic and enticing fragrance of oregano holds a trove of medicinal properties that support the health of the lungs. Scientifically known as Origanum vulgare, this herb is rich in compounds such as carvacrol and rosmarinic acid, which contribute to its herb-cleansing benefits.
Rosmarinic acid has natural histamine compounds that inhibit allergic reactions by reducing fluid buildup and swelling after an allergic attack.
Carvacrol is a natural compound with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It inhibits the growth and spread of harmful pathogens in the respiratory system. It also reduces the production of inflammatory markers in the respiratory system, decreasing the inflammatory response.
How to use it: Consume oregano inform of herbal tea or incorporate it into a culinary dish.
5. Ginger roots
Ginger has a long history in many traditional systems for its numerous benefits. It contains bioactive compounds, including gingerols, shogaols, and zingerones, which effectively clean the lungs.
Ginger is considered a powerful expectorant. It helps to loosen and thin the mucus, which aids in clearing the airways and relieving congestion. Gingerols and shogaols compounds have anti-inflammatory properties. They alleviate potential inflammation of the lungs and respiratory symptoms.
Research shows that taking a cup of ginger tea can clear the lungs in case of a flu-related infection. It reduces clogging of the bronchioles and speeds up the recovery process of respiratory disease.
Ginger root can significantly lower the symptoms of asthma. Research shows that it helps to relax the airways’ muscles and reduces asthma symptoms and other breathing problems.
How to use it: Prepare a warm ginger tea or use it in a meal. You can also mix ginger and ginseng for a more beneficial cup.
6. Cinnamon
With a warm and comforting aroma, cinnamon is excellent for both culinary and medicinal purposes. It contains potent compounds such as cinnamaldehyde, eugenol, and cinnamic acid, which help to protect the lungs.
Cinnamaldehyde is a potent anti-inflammatory compound that can help to fight inflammation in the lungs. It prevents the lungs from all inflammation-related issues, including asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Cinnamon has been used traditionally as a natural remedy due to if potential antimicrobial properties. It positively impacts common respiratory pathogens, potentially aiding in respiratory infection prevention.
How to use it: Take a cup of cinnamon tea; for its flavor, you can use it in culinary.
7. Green Tea
From its delicate aroma and vibrant green hues, green tea is the solution for almost all the organs in the body. It is among the best teas for menopause belly and among the few drinks that don’t spike blood sugar.
Green tea has compounds that have mucus-regulating properties. It can help to maintain optimum mucus production and clearance in the respiratory tract. This is important for respiratory health and the prevention of mucus congestion.
Green tea is rich in compounds such as polyphenols and flavonoids. These compounds protect the respiratory system cells from oxidative stress that can contribute to lung disease.
Green tea also contains catechin compounds which are rich in anti-inflammatory properties. They protect against the airways’ inflammation, which can lead to asthma.
Bottom line
These lung cleansing herbs have other numerous benefits and have fewer side effects. However, in case of allergy or further respiratory tract complications, visit a doctor for additional guidance.
