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15 Herbs that Boost Lung Health
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It seems that when talking to the American public about taking herbs to treat illnesses, the general belief if that they are ineffective, or not at all effective, and a waste of time and/or money. Little do people know that many of today’s pharmaceuticals are simply imitations of a compound that occurs in nature, but with tons of side effects that Mother Nature never intended.
Of course, everyone wants to be safe when it comes to putting herbs in our bodies but did you know that zero deaths have been reported due to the consumption of herbs? Can pharmaceuticals say that? Although it’s true that some herbal medicines, when used in large doses can be lethal, but with more than one million Americans killed every year by their prescription drugs, the overall safety of using herbs is obvious.
Also, the overuse of antibiotics is causing a world-wide health disaster while herbs, on the other hand, are still a useful tool in the fight against infection. Of course, you should always do as much research as possible when considering using herbs or pharmaceuticals. People should always be skeptical about taking either herbs or drugs prescribed by their doctors.
You should know that the current un-popularity of herbal medicines is from the scrutiny and bad press from pharmaceutical companies. Why is that? Because herbs cannot be owned, they cannot be patented, so drug companies would stand to lose millions of dollars every year. Consult a naturopathic doctor before you use any herbs.
Check out our list of herbs that not only help with lung heath, but can actually repair the respiratory system.
1. Plantain Leaf
Plantain has fruit very similar to a banana, and the leaf of this large plant has been used for many hundreds of years to calm irritated mucus membranes and ease coughs. Plantain leaves have both antibacterial and antimicrobial compounds as well as being a great anti-inflammatory. Leaves from this plant also help relieve those dry coughs by helping the lungs produce mucus.
2. Peppermint
And you thought peppermint was only good for stomach conditions! Peppermint and its oil contain a soothing compound that relax the muscles of around the respiratory area and therefore improve breathing. The main active ingredient in peppermint oil and dried peppermint is menthol, which has an antihistamine effect as well as being a great decongestant. This therapeutic herb helps break up congestion and fights back against harmful organisms. Read about other benefits of peppermint.
3. Licorice Root
Licorice has to be one of the most ingested herbs around the world. Licorice is said to harmonize the actions of all other herbs used in Traditional Chinese Medicine, so it’s no surprise that it’s used more often than all other herbs combined. Licorice has very soothing properties as it softens the membranes within the throat and lungs. It also reduces irritation while acting as an expectorant. This root can help stop bronchial spasms and blocks free radicals that produce inflammation. Flavonoids and other compounds in licorice can even help prevent lung cancer cells from forming.
4. Coltsfoot
This plant has been used by Native Americans for hundreds, perhaps thousands of years to help lungs become stronger. It’s very effective in removing excessive mucus from bronchial tubes and lungs while soothing the lungs mucus membranes. Coltsfoot helps those suffering from asthma, bronchitis, or other lung problems. This very helpful herb can be bought dried for use as a tea or in an alcohol extract, otherwise known as a tincture.
SEE ALSO: Aloe Vera: the Wonder Plant
5. Sage
This is another plant that was frequently used by Native Americans. The leaves have a very strong scent which helps those with lung problems. Sage tea is commonly used for sore throats or coughs. Sage has very aromatic oils which can help those suffering from sinusitis and other lung ailments. Brew a strong pot of sage tea and drink a cup while breathing in the vapors from a bowl placed nearby.
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