The lungs are one of our primary detoxification organs, and are exposed to large amounts of pollutants in the air each day. Learn how to support and restore your lung health.
This article examines a recent study from the Georgetown University Medical Center and the Institute for Cancer Prevention, which demonstrated that compounds found in cruciferous vegetables blocked lung cancer progression in both animal and human studies.
Cruciferous vegetables include broccoli, cabbage, kale and arugula. Eating daily servings of vegetables from this family is the best way to support your lung health via diet.
Source: globalhealingcenter.com This article describes the healing uses of lobelia, an extremely useful herb which has been used for centuries to aid in respiratory health. Lobelia contains an alkaloid called lobeline, which acts as an expectorant, clearing the lungs of mucus and congestion. It also has bronchodilating effects, opening up the airways and promoting deeper breathing.
Chaparral is a flowering plant found in the deserts of the southwest that was historically used by Native Americans for supporting lung health. In this article, the healing constituents of chaparral are analyzed. It contains nordihydroguararetic acid, or NGDA, which is a powerful antioxidant with a resistance to irritation that is also shown to halt some histamine secretions. It has a strong resistance to fungus and bacteria, and can boost the lungs' ability to combat mold and spore pollution in the air.
This article details the benefits of peppermint for the lungs.
While this herb has numerous healing uses in the body, its soothing properties have made it especially beneficial for respiratory disorders such as cold, cough, throat inflammation, and sinus infections. The compounds and oils found in this plant are powerful antioxidants, while also having anti-congestive, antispasmodic, and expectorant properties. It can be taken as a tea or tincture, or in supplement form.
Osha root is another herb long used by Native Americans for its health benefits, specifically for lung health. This article explains how osha root increases circulation to the lungs, which is beneficial for managing emphysema, pneumonia, asthma, and allergies. It is also bronchodilating, increasing the lungs' ability to utilize oxygen.
Eucalyptus has been used as an herbal remedy for centuries. This article explores the active ingredients found in the oil that give it such useful properties. The compound cineole is the active ingredient, and it is notable for its immune-stimulating, antioxidant, and spasmolytic effects. It functions as an expectorant, can ease a cough, as well as fight upper respiratory problems.