Clear Distressed Lungs & Respiratory Naturally

Deb Mastrianna

Understanding Respiratory Health

Respiratory illness can linger on its own or develop as a complication of colds and flu. In either case, it can leave the body feeling depleted. Every cell depends on oxygen from the lungs, which enters the bloodstream and circulates throughout the body. At the same time, carbon dioxide is carried back to the lungs so it can be exhaled.

The respiratory system does more than support breathing. It also helps regulate body temperature and moisture, protects the body from harmful substances through coughing, sneezing, filtering, or swallowing, and supports the sense of smell.

Treatment Options and Herbal Support

Common Western medical treatments for lung conditions include corticosteroids, oxygen therapy, medications such as pirfenidone and nintedanib, pulmonary rehabilitation, and surgery. Herbal approaches may also be used to support lung cleansing and ease respiratory discomfort.

When selected thoughtfully, complementary herbs may work together to soothe irritation in the respiratory tract, lungs, and bronchioles. A balanced formula may help ease symptoms associated with emphysema and other forms of bronchial or lung congestion, including bronchitis, asthma, and tuberculosis. It may also support the respiratory tract and encourage mucus clearance from the bronchopulmonary passages.

Lung Tonic Herbal Formula

This Lung Tonic Herbal Formula is a fresh cleansing blend intended to last up to three months when refrigerated. For best results, it should be used promptly and taken until finished.

• Suggested dosage: 1 to 2 tablespoons every 2 hours.
• Ingredients: Comfrey Root, Elecampane Root, Ground Ivy, Ginger, Cayenne, Nutmeg, and honey.

Below is a breakdown of the formula’s components and their traditional uses.

Formula Components

Elecampane (Inula helenium): Traditionally used for pulmonary complaints such as asthma, bronchitis, pleurisy, emphysema, and internal bleeding. It has long been considered useful for respiratory disorders. However, the FDA has suggested that elecampane be used externally only.

Comfrey Root (Symphytum officinale): A well-known healing plant valued for its allantoin content, which supports the growth of connective tissue, bone, and cartilage and is readily absorbed through the skin. It has been used for pulmonary and catarrhal conditions, including coughs, asthma, and bronchitis, and has also been combined with Echinacea for tuberculosis and whooping cough.

Ground Ivy (Glechoma hederacea): Considered a gentle herb for issues affecting the mucous membranes of the ear, nose, throat, and digestive system. Its volatile oil may help relieve congestion and inflammation linked to colds, flu, and sinusitis. It has also been used to help clear lingering catarrh in children and support chronic conditions such as glue ear, sinusitis, and chest or throat congestion caused by excess mucus.

Ginger Root (Zingiber officinale): A warming, stimulating herb that may support the lungs by helping loosen mucus and phlegm. Taken hot, it encourages sweating, which may be helpful during colds and flu. Chewing the root can stimulate saliva and soothe a sore throat. Ginger Root may interact with Heparin or Warfarin, and anyone taking Ticlopidine, chemotherapy drugs, general anesthetics, or nitrous oxide should consult a physician.

Cayenne Root (Capsicum minimum): Traditionally used with ginger to help clear the bronchial tubes and sinus cavities and as a gargle for sore throats.

Nutmeg: Used in small amounts to support appetite and digestion. It has also been used for gas, colic, nausea, muscle spasms, and insomnia.

Final Thought

Many people take deep breathing for granted, but after a severe respiratory infection, it can feel difficult or even alarming. Supporting lung health naturally may help make breathing feel easier.