Herbs for Respiratory Health

Nowadays, respiratory health is especially important for us. Some herbs may help give us respiratory system a boost.

Astragalus

Astragalus has been used by Chinese herbalists for thousands of years. Loaded with over 100 active compounds, including saponins, polysaccharides, amino acids, flavonoids and more, aside from its respiratory-friendly benefits, astragalus is also a stellar source of antioxidants and supports immune health, cardio function and more.

Mullein

Also known as Verbascum thapsus, the plant can be found in Asia, Northern Africa and Europe. This useful plant provides us with the highly beneficial mullein leaf. Like astragalus, the mullein leaf has a rich history; in fact, its usage can be traced all the way back to ancient Greece. Today, mullein leaf is perhaps most commonly used for its ability to boost respiratory and lung health. Traditional herbalists believe that mullein plays a role in helping to soothe the respiratory tract.

Wild Cherry Bark

Taken from the bark of the black cherry tree, wild cherry bark is packed with minerals like iron, calcium, zinc and magnesium as well as phytochemicals like quercetin and kaempferol. Studies have shown that wild cherry bark may help calm and support the respiratory system, which is due in part to its ability to help soothe the respiratory muscles lining the bronchioles. 

Quercetin and Bromelain

Quercetin is a powerful antioxidant flavonoid found in a wide range of foods and plants including apples, various berries, green tea, red grapes, onions and ginkgo biloba. Quercetin’s antioxidant effects help promote immune health and studies have also shown that it can support sinus and respiratory health. Bromelain enhances the absorption of quercetin, but bromelain offers benefits of its own.

Bromelain is derived from the stem of pineapples and features an impressive range of proteolytic enzymes. Bromelain has been studied for its benefits for sinus and lung health. Together, quercetin and bromelain are a winning combo for respiratory support.

Elecampane Root

Elecampane root’s scientific name is Helenium. Elecampane root has long been used as a traditional supporter to boost respiratory health and soothe the respiratory system, useful benefits for battling seasonal effects.

Oregano

It provides antioxidants while promoting digestive function, immune function and respiratory health. Researchers have reported that oregano promotes a soothing of the respiratory system and improve airflow while boosting immune health.

Coleus Forskohlii

This member of the mint family has been used for centuries as a respiratory health staple in Ayurvedic traditions. Modern science agrees that this Indian and South Asian herb is a great option for seasonal support. According to studies, taking a coleus forskohlii can have a soothing effect on the smooth muscles of our airways.

Plantain Leaf

The plantain is a perennial plant that originates from Europe and northern and Central Asia, but can also be found in North America and Australia. It is a source of flavonoids including apigenin and luteolin, plus minerals like zinc, iron and potassium and vitamins A, C and K. 

Plantain leaf has been traditionally used for boosting respiratory health and seasonal wellness. While its effects on respiratory health are not fully understood, its benefits may be related to vitamin C content, which according to studies can play a role in supporting healthy lung function.

Red Raspberry Leaves

The red raspberry leaf is practically bursting with nutrients like alpha-carotene, alpha-tocopherol, niacin, boron, calcium, magnesium, selenium, zinc, tons of antioxidants and a whole lot more. Herbalists dating back centuries have used red raspberry leaf as a traditional tonic to help support the body against the effects of seasonal blahs and boost respiratory function.

Thyme Leaf

Like oregano, thyme leaf is another culinary favorite that doubles as a supporter of good health and its use dates all the way back to the time of the Romans. Thyme is a flowering evergreen shrub and a member of the mint family. Its leaf has been used throughout the ages to boost immune function, support healthy blood pressure already within the normal range, and even promote a healthy mood. 

Thyme is also particularly suited for supporting respiratory health. Part of thyme’s respiratory health benefits may come from carvacrol, a plant phenol that boosts the body’s immune defenses.