8 cleansing herbs that will open up your airways and clear mucus from your lungs

8 cleansing herbs that will open up your airways and clear mucus from your lungs

These plants have been used for centuries, from Traditional Chinese Medicine to Native American Remedies, to clear the respiratory system and have it working properly. These herbs not only boost your health but have the ability to heal infections and repair damage to your lungs.

8 Herbal Lung Remedies

1. Licorice Root

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, licorice root is in most formulas because of its harmonizing actions. It is very soothing and softens and cleanses your throat’s mucus membranes by clearing out the inflamed matter.
Saponins loosen phlegm so your body can get rid of the mucus normally. Other compounds relieve bronchial spasms and are antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and have flavonoids that can help protect against lung cancer.

2. Coltsfoot

Long used by Native American populations to keep lung health strong. This plant clears out excess mucus and soothes the lungs and bronchial tubes. It has been used to treat asthma, coughs, bronchitis, and other lung ailments. Use dried coltsfoot as tea or as a tincture.

3. Thyme

Antiseptic, antibiotic, and antifungal properties come from thyme’s essential oils. Thyme tea destroys viruses and bacteria, so it works well against most ailments. Use time to treat respiratory tract infections and bacterial infections, or as a daily tool to strengthen your lungs.

4. Oregano

Containing immune-boosting vitamins and nutrients, oregano’s main benefit lies in its decongestant ability. Carvacrol and rosmarinic acid contents are high, and both are histamine reducers that have direct benefits on your nasal passage airflow and respiratory tract.

5. Lobelia

Used in Appalachian folk medicine, lobelia is known as one of the most valuable herbal remedies around. Extracts contain lobeline, an alkaloid that helps fight drug-resistant tumor cells, loosen phlegm, and stimulate the production of epinephrine, which when combined relaxes your airways letting you breathe easy.

6. Eucalyptus

The refreshing aroma of eucalyptus is a common ingredient in cough lozenges and syrups because of its ability to soothe the throat. Cineole the reason – it’s an expectorant that eases coughs, fights congestions, and makes your nasal passageways feel back-to-normal. Eucalyptus also has antioxidants making it a great immune-booster.

7. Sage

Sage essential oils and sage tea are what to look for here. Sage tea is a traditional treatment for sore throats and coughs. Inhaling the tea vapors helps to cleanse lung disorders and sinusitis.

8. Peppermint

Peppermint has menthol, a soothing compound that relaxes the smooth muscles in your respiratory tract and help your breathe better. Even peppermint oil has menthol. Combined with the antihistamine effect of peppermint, menthol is a great decongestant, helping to break up mucus and relieve your throat. Chest balms and inhalants use menthol to break-up congestion.
Peppermint is also a great source of antioxidants.

How to Use These Herbs

A lot of these herbs can probably be found dried up in your kitchen, or fresh, which is even better. Most can be brewed into teas, bought as essential oils, or combined into your daily diet to help bust-up congestion issues and clean out your lungs.
So get out in the garden, or at least to the fresh herbs section of the grocery store, and get your hands on these herbs. You’ll be breathing easy in no time.