Breathing is a vital function that many of us overlook. Regardless of whether you smoke or have respiratory issues, it's beneficial to occasionally cleanse your lungs as part of your wellness routine. For those who smoke or suffer from asthma or allergies, it's even more crucial to maintain clean airways.
Your lungs are more expansive than you may realize. They fit snugly within your chest, yet their surface area—both internal and external—is 40 times greater than that of your skin. Their spongy composition ensures both flexibility and permeability.
While we can survive with just one lung, anyone who has undergone a lung removal will attest that life changes significantly afterward.
Each lung contains air passages known as bronchioles, interconnected by bronchial trees. At the tip of each tree branch are tiny air sacs called alveoli.
White blood cells within the alveoli act as filters, removing irritants and pathogens from the air by either destroying them or expelling them from the body.
Our lungs tirelessly perform the essential task of inhaling oxygen, purifying it, and delivering it to the circulatory system to be distributed throughout our bodies. With a constant rhythm of expansion and contraction—up to 20 times per minute—they deserve our utmost care to remain in optimal condition.
Common causes of respiratory issues include:
Lung diseases encompass:
Asthma – This condition is characterized by chronic inflammation of the bronchial tubes, leading to narrowed passageways that restrict breathing. External factors, such as seasonal allergies or stress, can trigger a severe asthma attack. Asthma affects an estimated 300 million people globally, and its prevalence is increasing. It is a chronic, lifelong disease that, in extreme cases, can be fatal.
Bronchitis – This refers to the inflammation of the bronchial tubes, which connect the air passages from the nose and mouth to the lungs. Typically triggered by allergies or respiratory infections like influenza, bronchitis usually resolves quickly. However, air pollutants are also a significant cause.
Colds and other viral infections can also affect lung health.
Cystic fibrosis – A hereditary disease that causes the production of thick mucus in the lungs and other organs, leading to difficulty in breathing.
Emphysema – A progressive lung condition where the alveoli are chronically inflamed, hindering airflow into and out of the lungs.
Pleurisy – This involves inflammation, and often fluid accumulation, between the layers of the lung's inner lining.
Pneumonia – An infection in the lungs that can be caused by various agents such as bacteria, fungi, viruses, and aspirated chemicals.
Tuberculosis – The world's most prevalent bacterial infectious disease that primarily attacks the lungs and can also harm the liver and kidneys. It can present diverse symptoms, making diagnosis challenging. The most common signs resemble a persistent flu-like illness.
Lung cancer is another serious condition affecting respiratory health.
Symptoms of respiratory problems include:
- Shortness of breath
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Tightness in the chest
- Chest pain
- Local tenderness of the chest or back
- Coughing up phlegm or blood
- Hoarseness
Symptoms of a lung infection mirror those of other infections and include fever, coughing, an overproduction of mucus, body aches, irritation in the chest and throat, as well as pronounced exhaustion.
20 Lung-Purifying Recipes
The majority of the recipes that follow are designed as teas. This is due to their simplicity in preparation, the advantageous steam they produce, and their rapid absorption into the body.
Guidelines for all lung detox tea remedies:
- Utilize a cloth tea bag, tea ball, or strainer to contain the herb leaves.
- Employ water that has been purified through reverse osmosis.
- If you choose to add honey, opt for the raw, unfiltered, organic variety that is sourced locally.
- Keep the tea covered while it steeps to ensure that beneficial oils are not lost to evaporation alongside the steam.
1. Mullein Tea
Herbalists utilize the leaves and flowers of mullein to address various respiratory conditions, such as asthma, coughs, bronchitis, and pulmonary diseases. The phytochemicals present in mullein serve to detoxify and calm the bronchioles, which are the air tubes within the lungs, making it an effective natural expectorant.
Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
- 2 teaspoons mullein leaf
- 1 1/2 cups filtered water
- 1 teaspoon dried spearmint (optional)
- 1-2 teaspoons honey (optional)
Directions:
- Boil water and add mullein leaves.
- Add spearmint in a separate tea ball if desired.
- Steep for 15 minutes. Add honey to taste, if desired.
2. Lungwort Tea
Lungwort, a lichen named for its lung-like appearance during the Middle Ages, has traditionally been used to support lung health.
This plant has been utilized to treat bronchitis, asthma, and other lung diseases when ingested. It is also beneficial for stomach and intestinal issues, as well as kidney and urinary tract complications. Furthermore, lungwort can be applied externally to alleviate the discomfort caused by eczema, burns, and hemorrhoids.
To prepare it, pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1 teaspoon of dried lungwort and steep it covered for 15 minutes. Drinking several cups daily can help reduce pulmonary inflammation and promote healing.
3. Eucalyptus Tea
Eucalyptus oil contains cineole, a natural antibiotic. This compound also possesses antiviral and antifungal properties.
"Remarkably, as an antimicrobial substance, it also offers immune-stimulatory, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic, and spasmolytic benefits. It particularly affects white blood cells, notably monocytes and macrophages, enhancing their phagocytic activity. Using eucalyptus through vapor inhalation or orally can aid in treating various respiratory conditions, including purulent and non-purulent issues such as bronchitis, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)."
Eucalyptus serves as an excellent natural remedy for chest infections by relaxing and dilating the lungs and bronchioles, which eases congestion and discomfort.
It is important to use eucalyptus in small quantities because larger doses can lead to nausea or diarrhea.
A half teaspoon per cup suffices. Pregnant or nursing women and individuals with liver or gastrointestinal issues should avoid ingesting eucalyptus. Instead, they can benefit from inhaling eucalyptus steam to address respiratory problems.
How to make eucalyptus tea:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 teaspoon dried eucalyptus leaves
- 1 cup water, boiling
- Honey to taste
Directions:
- Pour boiling water over eucalyptus leaves, cover, and allow to steep for 10 minutes.
- Add honey to taste (optional).
- Drink up to 3 cups a day.
4. Oregano Tea
'Carvacrol, found in oregano, is known for its decongestant properties and ability to reduce histamine, thereby promoting lung health. Oregano, an herb with antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal qualities, also boasts antioxidants that mitigate oxidative stress throughout the body.'
Ingredients:
- 4-6 tablespoons fresh or dried oregano
- 2 ½ cups water
- 1 tablespoon honey
Directions:
- Cut or crush fresh oregano leaves to release their oil. Skip this step if using dried oregano.
- Add oregano and steep for at least 5 minutes.
- Drink hot and inhale the steam between sips.
5. Plantain Leaf Infusion
The plantain referred to here is not the banana-like fruit, but rather the ubiquitous plantain weed, characterized by its spiky green leaves that proliferate in the wild. The leaves of the plantain are known to promote mucus production, rendering them an excellent remedy for dry coughs or throat irritations. Indeed, research has demonstrated the efficacy of plantain leaves in alleviating bronchitis, and they are mild enough to be used for children.
Given that this herb can be readily found in one's backyard, it stands as one of the most accessible home treatments for lung congestion. Furthermore, plantain bolsters the immune system.
This attribute is particularly beneficial when combating an infection.
Recipe:
- Pour 1 cup boiling water over 3-4 tablespoons of dried plantain herb (or ¼ cup fresh leaves).
- Steep 15-20 minutes and drink immediately.
6. Elecampane Syrup
Also known as horse-heal, elecampane is a plant that serves as an effective lung cleanser. Historically and in Eastern medicine, it has been utilized for treating bronchitis and asthma. Elecampane root acts as a natural expectorant due to its content of inulin, a detoxifying phytochemical. Inulin coats and soothes the bronchioles, allowing them to relax and thus alleviating wheezing and coughing.
However, elecampane is not advisable for use by pregnant women.
Here’s how to make this natural cough remedy:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons dried elecampane root
- 2 cups water
- Honey
- Lemon juice
Directions:
- Bring the water to a boil in a saucepan.
- Add elecampane and simmer for 20 minutes over low heat.
- Once the liquid is reduced by half, strain and squeeze all the liquid out of the herbs.
- Add honey and lemon to taste and cool.
- Store leftover syrup in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.
- For children under 14, give a 2/3 teaspoon every two hours or 2 teaspoons for older folks.
7. Lobelia Tincture
Lobelia (Lobelia inflata), also known as Indian tobacco, is a potent and complex herb. It serves as an alternative to tobacco, aiding in smoking cessation efforts. The compound lobeline, found in lobelia, acts as a mild stimulant similar to nicotine but lacks its addictive properties. Additionally, lobelia functions as an antispasmodic and an expectorant.
Furthermore, lobelia can induce vomiting to eliminate toxins from the body. However, due to its potential toxicity in high doses, it is advised to use this herb only under professional medical guidance.
8. Chaparral Tea
NOTE: It is not recommended to use this herb over an extended period or by individuals with liver conditions.
The chaparral herb alleviates lung discomfort and moderates the histamine response, which is highly beneficial for treating bronchitis and colds. Furthermore, this herb contains an antioxidant known as NDGA (nordihydroguaiaretic acid), which impedes the energy production in abnormal (cancerous) cells.
Consuming chaparral in tea form acts as a natural expectorant.
To prepare the tea, infuse 5 tablespoons of dried chaparral leaves and stems in a quart of boiling water.
9. Peppermint Steam Bath
Menthol, found in peppermint, acts as an anti-spasmodic and anti-inflammatory agent, thereby relaxing the respiratory tract. Inhaling peppermint steam cleanses the lungs of mucus and its contained toxins, thereby detoxifying the organs. Indeed, it is one of the most effective essential oils for combating colds.
To utilize this remedy, pour boiling water into a large glass bowl and introduce 3 drops of peppermint essential oil. Drape a towel over your head and position yourself above the steaming bowl (maintain a safe distance to avoid burns). With closed eyes, deeply inhale the vapor until the steam no longer rises. Continuously blow your nose to expel the mucus that loosens. This method is also highly beneficial for persistent head colds.
10. Osha Root and Horehound Syrup
The Osha plant, native to the Rocky Mountains and Mexico, has been utilized by Native Americans for centuries to support the respiratory system and serve as a natural remedy for coughs. The roots contain camphor, which acts as a natural expectorant. Osha root enhances blood flow to the lungs, facilitating easier breathing and aiding in the elimination of residual toxins from smoking.
However, due to its camphor content, prolonged continuous use of Osha root is not recommended as it may harm the liver. Additionally, pregnant and nursing women should avoid using Osha root because it can induce uterine contractions.
Conversely, Horehound is a bitter herb that serves as an effective expectorant and mild anesthetic, alleviating discomfort in sore airways.
Below is the recipe for homemade syrup:
Ingredients:
- An ounce of Horehound
- 2 cups of water
- 2 cups honey
- One ounce powdered slippery elm bark
- The juice of one lime
- 1/2 cup brandy
- Several tablespoons of powdered osha root
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, bring the water and horehound to a boil.
- Simmer over low heat for 20 minutes.
- Strain herbs and boil tea down to 1 cup.
- Add honey and stir over low heat.
- Remove from heat and add slippery elm, lime, and brandy.
- Add osha root, mix, and bottle.
- Take a tablespoon or two as needed.
11. Hawthorn Healing Infusion
This plant is well-recognized for its cardiovascular benefits. Hawthorn berries are rich in antioxidants that possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, and they enhance blood circulation. These attributes are crucial for preventing fluid accumulation in the lungs and aiding in their detoxification.
It is advised not to consume hawthorn if you are currently taking heart medications or anticoagulants.
Ingredients:
- 1 oz by weight dried Hawthorn flower and leaves
- 4 cups boiling water
Instructions:
- Pour boiling water over hawthorn and steep for 48 hours.
- Strain, squeeze and drink warm or iced.
12. Thyme Syrup
A 2016 study examining the impact of thyme on bronchial pathways definitively concluded that this herb ranks among the most protective and supportive for the lungs. "Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) is traditionally used to create herbal remedies with expectorant, mucolytic, antitussive, and antispasmodic properties. Thyme extract could be an effective treatment for chronic diseases driven by inflammatory processes where excessive mucus secretion surpasses ciliary clearance and blocks airways, leading to morbidity and mortality. Additionally, thyme extract, tested on the H460 lung cancer cell line, was found to induce cell cytotoxicity while also reducing inflammatory cell signals."
Ingredients:
- 2 to 4 ounces thyme leaf and flower (fresh is best but dried will do)
- 1 quart of water
- 1 cup honey
To make the syrup:
- Combine the thyme and water in a small saucepan over very low heat.
- Simmer with the lid ajar until the liquid is reduced by half. You should be left with about 2 cups of strong thyme tea.
- Strain out the herbs, cool slightly and add the honey.
- Stir and store in a glass jar in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 weeks.
- To use, take 1/2 to 1 teaspoon every couple of hours until the cold or the cough subsides.
13. Sage Tea
Sage hinders the proliferation and spread of cancer in the lungs and other areas of the body. Therefore, individuals with a heightened risk for lung issues, such as smokers and those exposed to dangerous substances, will find sage particularly beneficial. Sage's abundant aromatic oils clear the sinuses and alleviate congestion in the lungs, providing relief for coughs, colds, and sore throats.
Rich in antioxidants, sage also helps manage cholesterol levels.
Here is the preparation method:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of water
- 2 tsp of fresh sage leaves or 1 tsp of dried sage
- 1 tsp of buckwheat honey
Directions:
- Place the sage in a tea strainer.
- Boil the water and pour it into your teapot.
- Allow the sage to steep for approximately 10 minutes, stirring now and then.
- Serve the tea in your mug and add honey to sweeten.
- Limit consumption to no more than three cups daily.
14. Licorice Root Tea
Licorice root, commonly known as "sweet root," contains glycyrrhizic acid, a substance with antiviral properties. The root also boasts a range of other phytochemicals that possess anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal characteristics. Additionally, licorice is effective in calming inflamed lung and mucous tissues.
Caution is advised: Pregnant women, individuals with hypertension, or those suffering from kidney disease should refrain from using licorice root. It is also recommended not to consume licorice root tea for more than seven consecutive days.
Recipe for Licorice Tea:
Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon of dried licorice root
- 4 ounces of water
Instructions:
1. Boil the water in a small saucepan.
2. Remove from heat and add the licorice root.
3. Allow to steep for 5 minutes.
4. Serve hot and inhale the vapor while drinking.
15. Coltsfoot Tincture
Coltsfoot flowers bear a strong resemblance to dandelions and possess similar medicinal properties. This herb is particularly effective in treating respiratory conditions such as bronchitis, pneumonia, asthma, and tuberculosis, notably excelling at reducing inflammation. However, it is advisable to avoid prolonged use.
Here is the method for preparing the tincture:
- Finely chop the flowers and herbs.
- Place the chopped coltsfoot into a glass jar.
- Pour 80-100-proof vodka over the coltsfoot until it is fully submerged, then tightly seal the jar with a lid.
- Label the jar with the current date and store it in a cool, dark environment.
- After six weeks, strain the plant material from the liquid and preserve the tincture.
- Transfer the liquid into a dark-tinted bottle equipped with an eyedropper.
- Administer 2-4 ml of the tincture daily, as necessary.
16. Fenugreek and Dandelion Tea
Fenugreek provides relief for a sore throat due to its anti-inflammatory properties and helps in breaking down mucus. Conversely, dandelion excels in purifying the lungs, liver, and kidneys.
Here's the method to prepare dandelion and fenugreek tea:
Ingredients:
- Mullein leaf: 6 parts
- Fenugreek seeds: 1 part
- Dandelion root: 1 part
Instructions:
- Combine all the herbs in a glass jar and secure it with a lid. Shake well to mix.
- Measure out 1 tablespoon of the herbal blend and place it into a teapot.
- Pour 2 cups of boiling water over the herbs.
- Allow the tea to steep for 10 to 20 minutes.
- Strain the tea, sweeten to taste, and enjoy.
17. Clove and Lemon Tea
Clove contains eugenol, which serves as an analgesic to alleviate discomfort. More significantly, the intricate phytochemical composition of clove has been demonstrated to eliminate lung cancer cells and halt their proliferation. Conversely, lemon is abundant in vitamin C, a potent antiviral agent.
When combined, this rich and savory tea mitigates inflammation in the throat and lungs while bolstering the immune system. It is an excellent tea choice for combating a cold.
Here is the method for preparing healthy throat tea:
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp of your preferred green tea
- 1/2 teaspoon each of cloves, turmeric, and thyme
- 2 teaspoons of honey
- Juice of half a lemon
Directions:
- Add the tea, spices, and herbs to your tea strainer and immerse it in a cup of boiling water.
- Allow it to steep for three to five minutes.
- After straining, incorporate the honey and lemon juice.
18. Ginger-Turmeric Tea
Turmeric possesses unparalleled anti-inflammatory properties. Its relative, ginger, is equally effective in combating inflammation and bolstering the immune system with robust antioxidants. Therefore, these two roots are indispensable for any detoxification or bodily cleanse.
This specific recipe for turmeric ginger tea is particularly beneficial for smokers, as it helps eliminate plaque buildup in the lungs and expel toxins.
Ingredients:
- A small piece of ginger root
- 400 grams of clean, chopped onions
- 2 teaspoons of turmeric
- 1 liter of water
- Honey to taste (optional)
Instructions:
- Bring the water to a boil in a small saucepan over high heat, then incorporate the ginger root and onions.
- Lower the heat to maintain a simmer.
- Grate additional ginger into the mixture and stir in the turmeric.
- Allow to simmer for several minutes.
- Strain the tea and serve hot. For optimal results, consume at least twice daily.
19. Marshmallow and Chickweed
Marshmallow root is known for its soothing and sweet properties. It effectively reduces inflammation, irritation, and coughing. Similarly, chickweed, often dismissed as a mere "weed," plays a significant role in supporting human health. Utilizing chickweed can aid in clearing the lungs of mucus and alleviate lung congestion. It acts as an emollient (moisturizing the skin), has laxative effects, and is rich in nutrients.
To prepare the herbal remedy, mix equal parts of marshmallow root, comfrey leaf, chickweed leaf, mullein leaf, and lobelia leaf. Infuse 2 teaspoons of this blend per cup of boiling water for 5-10 minutes. Adults are recommended to consume 1 cup three times a day, while children should be limited to no more than 1/2 cup thrice daily.
Alternatively, you can create a tincture using these herbs and administer 15-20 drops per day for adults. For children, a dosage of 10 drops is advised.
20. Echinacea Tea
Many swear by echinacea as an effective method to prevent colds or flu, while some find it ineffective. Research validates both outcomes—the variance likely lies in the individual's immune system strength at illness onset. Echinacea more significantly aids weaker immune systems than stronger ones.
Echinacea, a prevalent herb, enhances immune function, alleviates pain, combats bacteria and viruses, diminishes inflammation, and neutralizes free radicals. It also lessens symptoms of bronchial infections, laryngitis, ear infections, yeast and fungal infections, and promotes swift healing.
Exercise caution with echinacea: avoid usage beyond 10 consecutive days, during pregnancy, alongside liver medications, or if you have a compromised immune system.
Tea Preparation:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup fresh or 1/4 cup dried echinacea leaves, roots, and/or flowers
- 8 oz of water
- 1-2 teaspoons of Manuka honey
Instructions:
- Boil water in a small pot on medium heat.
- Add echinacea, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Strain the tea into a mug, stir in honey, and savor.
Maintaining optimal lung health is crucial for everyone. The challenge increases annually due to pollution and aging. Incorporating a variety of herbs and natural remedies supports all bodily systems, including the lungs.
Understanding which remedies to utilize for additional lung support will enhance their longevity.
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