According to the experts, the lungs are definitely one of the hardest-working organs in the body. And, in average, a person breathes in and out between 12 and 20 times every single minute, to bring new oxygen into the body and to exhale carbon dioxide along with other waste products. And while the body can get along for a while without food or water, it cannot go more than a few minutes without air. So it is imperative to the health of the whole body to have a pair of lungs that are healthy and in good shape.
And, you should also know that there are many things that can cause problems for our respiratory organs, such as: allergies, asthma, harmful organisms, and even inhalation of various pollutants.
These are the most common symptoms of respiratory problems: chest congestion, difficulty breathing and irritated nasal or throat passages. If you, or someone you’re close to, has experienced these symptoms, you know they can be very disruptive.
Herbal therapy is one way to ensure this. Read on to find out more about some of the herbs which are best for cleansing the lungs and supporting the respiratory system. And, one more thing – these herbs are naturally rich in carvacrol, flavonoids, and terpenes; all of which are natural decongestants and antihistamines.
Oregano
Oregano is awesome! How this works – well, when pollen, dust, mold, chemicals, fungus, and bacteria are invading your body, it releases a chemical called histamine which causes a reaction similar to allergic reactions — nasal congestion, increased mucous production, and sneezing. Histamine reducing herbs like oregano aid in counteracting histamine and may help reduce these reactions. Oregano also contains rosmarinic acid.
A recent study, conducted by group of researchers, has discovered that rosmarinic acid reduces fluid buildup and even swelling during an allergy attack, making it a natural histamine-reducing compound. And, you should also know that oregano contains calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron, potassium, vitamins A and C, and niacin. Although these components don’t directly impact upper respiratory problems, all of them are required by the systems within the body, including the immune system. Adequate vitamin and mineral intake is paramount for maintaining a healthy body that can fight off problems, such as upper respiratory issues, before they start.
Eucalyptus
I really think that we all know about the health benefits of eucalyptus oil. The eucalyptus oil has powerful anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, decongestant, deodorant, antiseptic, antibacterial, stimulating, and other medicinal properties. Eucalyptus essential oil is effective for treating a number of respiratory problems including cold, cough, runny nose, sore throat, asthma, nasal congestion, bronchitis and sinusitis. Eucalyptus oil is antibacterial, antifungal, antimicrobial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory and decongestant in nature, which makes it a good ingredient in many medicines that treat respiratory problems. A recent study shows its usefulness in treating non-bacterial sinusitis. And yes, one more thing – gargles of eucalyptus oil mixed with warm water are consistently effective in treating sore throats.
Lungwort
Firstly, you should know that lungwort has two broad areas of use. The one that provides its name is its use in the treatment of coughs and bronchitis, especially where associated with upper respiratory catarrh. For lung conditions, this herb may be used with White Horehound, Coltsfoot or Lobelia. The recommended dosage:
Infusion: Pour a cup of boiling water onto l-2 teaspoonful of the dried herb and leave to infuse for l0-l5 -minutes. This should be drunk three times a day.