Herbs to Support Your Respiratory System
Just like we are what we eat, we are what we breathe. Our lungs are what connect our interior world with the external world. It is through respiration that we become one with the plants, trees, oceans, atmospheric gases and most importantly, each other. As we breathe, we are taking it all in. This virus has shown us how we are one and inextricably linked to one another and our environment. What began with someone on the other side of the world, is affecting millions and can ultimately affect me and my loved ones. With places reopening, it is time to take great measures to maintain our personal health. We can wear protective gear, boost our immune system and strengthen ourselves physically, mentally and emotionally.
Keep your lungs healthy! Our lungs are how we purify the energy that flows to each and every cell and we must nourish, strengthen and support them. Keep your respiratory system lubricated with mucilaginous herbs as they form a layer of soothing protection. Do breathing exercises, drink lots of water, get plenty of exercise and eat healthy foods high in vitamins and minerals.
This is a list of some of the herbs in my apothecary for the respiratory system. There are many more, but these are the ones I use most and in my formulas.
HERBS FOR LUNG HEALTH
Usnea is a lichen, a symbiotic creation of algae and fungi. It is often referred to as the lungs of the forest and grows where the air is clean. Having a strong affinity for the lungs, it helps prevent and heal respiratory conditions as well as build respiratory immunity.
Osha Root promotes healthy lungs and stimulates the immune system. It increases blood flow to the lungs which eases chest constriction. It is an expectorant and a good way to clear mucus and congestion quickly. It increases the exchange of oxygen through the alveoli in the lungs which increases the ability to take deeper breaths.
Hyssop is useful for respiratory problems because it alleviates lung inflammation, relaxes a tight chest, relieves bronchial spasms and opens the bronchial tubes to allow in more air.
Mullein is an excellent lung healer used throughout history by many cultures around the world for its ability to restore lung health and heal damaged lung tissue. It builds stronger, longer cilia in our lungs which is essential to fighting respiratory attacking viruses that destroy and damage cilia.
Licorice helps strengthen and modulate the immune system. It soothes mucus membranes and helps calm and sooth the lining of the lungs for quicker healing.
Elacampane is a stimulating expectorant used to get lung obstructions moving quickly and effectively. It also relieves shortness of breath and wheezing.
Marshmallow is juicy and mucilaginous. It coats membranes and forms a protective barrier while it soothes and heals. This improves the function of the mucous membranes in the respiratory tract.
Pleurisy Root has been used for thousands of years for a myriad of respiratory illnesses such as lung infections, pleurisy, pneumonia, influenza, swine flu and bronchitis. It is a very effective expectorant, antispasmodic and diaphoretic herb.
Reishi is a mushroom that has been used for thousands of years in China to stop coughing, wheezing and disperse phlegm. It increases the alveoli’s ability to absorb oxygen as well as reducing the cough reflex. It is also one of my favorite ways to boost the immune system.
Ginger helps keep your lung strong, improves your ability to breathe, loosens phlegm, fights lung inflammation and prevents lung damage.
Cinnamon is high in volatile oils that are antiviral and fight respiratory illnesses.
Orange Peel has a lung cleansing effect, helps clear the airways and support problematic respiratory illnesses.
Peaceful, Easy Breathing Blend
1 part marshmallow root
1/2 part mullein
1/4 part hyssop
1/4 part reishi
1/8 parts each: licorice, cinnamon, ginger, orange peel
Brew for 7-11 minutes so that you can get that good root medicine.
Enjoy!
Marshmallow Water
Fill any jar 1/4 way with marshmallow root and cover until full with lukewarm water.
Try adding roses as a heart opener, lavender as a spirit lifter or chamomile to calm the nerves.
Cover the jar with a lid. Leave overnight for a minimum of 5 hours.
Strain and drink throughout the day.
Enjoy!
Incorporating these herbs into your wellness plan is easy and effective. They may be used in variety of ways, so please consult an herbalist to help you find the best approach, especially if you are pregnant or have existing health issues.
Be well, everyone!
"From the bitterness of disease man learns the sweetness of health." ~Catalan Proverb