15 Plants And Herbs That Can Boost Lung Health, Heal Respiratory Infections And Even Repair Pulmonary Damage

An epidemic of bacterial and viral infections is on the rise and people are taking longer to heal from an array of symptoms within the respiratory system.

Addressing these issues with antibiotics adds to the problem with antibiotic resistance while failing to address the root cause of the infection. On the other hand, herbal remedies repair lung damage, heal infections, and improve lung health.

Here are the top 15 herbs that can boost lung health naturally:

Licorice root

Licorice has a soothing effect on the body. It softens the mucous membranes in the throat, lungs, and stomach. It also works to cleanse any inflamed mucous membrane that needs the support of the immune system. Licorice root can naturally reduce irritation in the throat while helping the body expel mucus.

Coltsfoot

his herb has been long used by Native Americans to boost lung health. It has the ability to expel mucous from the lungs and bronchial tubes while soothing the mucous membrane. It has been scientifically shown that coltsfoot helps alleviate a cough, asthma, bronchitis, and other lung-related conditions.  It can be found in the form of a tincture, tea, or dried form.

Cannabis

Cannabis is perhaps one of the most effective anti-cancer plants in the world shown in study after study to stimulate cannabinoid receptor activation in specific genes and mediate the anti-invasive effect of cannabinoids. Vaporizing cannabis allows the active ingredients to stimulate the body’s natural immune response and significantly reduces the ability of infections to spread. Vaporizing cannabis opens up airways and sinuses, acting as a bronchodilator. It is even a proven method to treat and reverse asthma.

Osha root

Osha root is one of the best lung-protecting herbs due to its camphor content. It helps boost circulation in the lungs, making it easier to take deep breaths. This herb produces similar effects like an antihistamine, calming down respiratory irritation in case of seasonal sensitivities that flare up the sinuses.

Thyme

This common herb can be used to fight chest congestion, thanks to its powerful antiseptic essential oils. Thyme oil is a natural antibiotic and antifungal. Drinking thyme tea can also help cleanse bacteria and viruses from the body to fight your infection.

Oregano

Oregano herb contains vitamins and nutrients essential for the immune system. It contains compounds like Rosemarinic Acid and carvacrol, which are natural decongestants (relieves nasal congestion) and histamine reducers. Both have positive effects on the respiratory tract and nasal passage airflow.

Lobelia

Lobelia is native to the United States and used by the Native Americans. Lobelia contains an alkaloid known as lobeline, which thins mucus and breaks up congestion. Additionally, Lobelia stimulates the adrenal glands to release epinephrine, which relaxes the airways and allows for easier breathing.

Elecampane

This herb has the ability to clear out excess mucus while helping to lessen infection.  It is especially beneficial for those who are prone to lung infections, such as bronchitis.  It is recommended to add a teaspoon of elecampane to a cup of boiling water and drink three times daily for a few weeks.

Eucalyptus

Aborigines, Germans, and Americans have all used the refreshing aroma of eucalyptus to promote respiratory health and soothe throat irritation. Eucalyptus is a common ingredient in cough lozenges and syrups and its effectiveness is due to a compound called cineole, which works to ease a cough, fight congestion and soothe irritated sinus passages. Eucalyptus also contains antioxidants that support the immune system during an illness.

Mullein

Mullein can be used as a natural remedy to clear excess mucus from the lungs. Both the flowers and leaves of the mullein plant are used to make a powerful herbal extract. It has the ability to cleanse the bronchial tubes and reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract.

Plantain leaf

The plantain leaf has been used for hundreds of years to ease a cough and soothe irritated mucous membranes. Also, plantain leaf contains many anti-inflammatory and antitoxic compounds. Clinical trials have found it favorable against a cough, cold, and lung irritation. Also, it may help relieve a dry cough by spawning mucus production in the lungs.

Peppermint

Peppermint contains menthol, a shooting ingredient known to relax the respiratory tract muscles, thus promoting free breathing. Also, peppermint contains many other compounds like limonene and pulegone, which are great decongestants. Many people use therapeutic chest balms and other inhalants that contain menthol to help break up congestion. Additionally, peppermint is antioxidant and fights infections.