We all have occasional respiratory complaints. We get a cold that turns into a lingering cough or congestion that just won’t go away. It was these experiences that inspired us to learn about herbs to support these various discomforts. We even created our own blend of respiratory herbs to keep on hand.
Learning the Herbal Highlights
As I study herbs, I like to take note of the highlights and primary actions of a given herb to help me remember how to use it. I think of ashwagandha, for instance, as an adaptogen and stinging nettle as an antihistamine. Of course, they have a host of other benefits, but I try to remember them for their main uses. I think about herbs that support the respiratory system in the same way. I keep a running list of herbs in mind that have different benefits to the respiratory system and why. When the need arises, I recall what I have learned and use herbs accordingly.
There are various ways to use herbs to support respiratory health. Different approaches to supporting respiratory health may work better than others depending on the complaint. Herbal teas, tinctures, and even steam are all good ways to use herbs to support these ailments.
In this post, we will talk about a few of our favorite herbs to use for the respiratory system. Maybe they will become your favorites too!
Mullein Leaf
Mullein is a well-known respiratory aid and is described as a lung tonic. Mullein has anti-inflammatory, demulcent, and expectorant actions and is used for dry and irritating respiratory complaints. Its expectorant properties promote the removal of excess mucous from the respiratory tract, while its demulcent qualities soothe and coat irritated tissues.
The tiny hairs that cover the outside of mullein leaves can cause irritation to the skin, mouth or throat. It is important to strain mullein preparations carefully before consuming.
Marshmallow Root
Yes, there’s an herb called marshmallow, and it is what was used to make the original marshmallow candy! Marshmallow root is known for its soothing nature and demulcent qualities which help coat tissues in the respiratory tract. Marshmallow is especially useful for coughs, sore throats, and complaints that leave you feeling dry and irritated.
Elecampane Root
Elecampane root is especially known for its expectorant properties. It has warming and stimulating effects on the respiratory system, aiding in the removal of excess mucous. It is a great support for coughs and other respiratory complaints. Elecampane’s medicinal properties are found in the root. When making tea, steep elecampane root for 15-20 minutes to extract its medicinal benefits, or make an herbal decoction.
Peppermint Leaf
Peppermint leaf is a wonderful aid to the respiratory system. Its cooling, minty qualities make it a fantastic addition to teas and tinctures. As a diaphoretic, peppermint is used to warm up the body and aid in sweating out toxins. Peppermint acts as a catalyst, enabling other herbs to work more effectively.
Yarrow Leaf and Flower
Yarrow has a vast array of benefits. One of our favorite ways to use yarrow is in herbal tea blends. Its astringent properties work to tighten and tone tissues that may be lax from excess mucous and wet coughs. Like peppermint, yarrow has diaphoretic properties which help the body sweat out toxins and also make fevers more productive.
Yarrow should not be taken during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Tulsi Leaf and Flower (aka Holy Basil)
When I think about tulsi (also known as holy basil), I think about how it’s good for everything! It is an adaptogen which helps our bodies adapt to stressors. Tulsi modulates the immune system and is calming to the nerves. Tulsi also has antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. As an expectorant, tulsi assists the body in getting rid of excess mucous in the respiratory tract. Tulsi has a very mild flavor that reminds me of a light green tea. Its warming energetics help to balance other herbs that have a cooling nature.
Respiratory System Support
There are many symptoms and manifestations of respiratory ailments including coughs, sore throats, wheezing, phlegm, dry irritations, and more. Different herbs are indicated for different issues. For complaints like scratchy throats and dry coughs, moistening herbs like mullein, marshmallow, and slippery elm are great options. For moist conditions such as wet coughs, excess mucous, and phlegm, drying herbs like yarrow, ginger, red raspberry leaf, peppermint, and tulsi are indicated.
Respiratory Support Tea
Herbal tea is a great way to enjoy the medicinal benefits of herbs and is especially indicated when supporting the respiratory system. A hot infusion of respiratory supporting herbs can coat the mucous membranes in the throat and soothe inflamed tissues while delivering herbal benefits to the body. Hot tea with honey is great for soothing sore throats and coughs. After much research and experimentation, we created our own blend of Respiratory Support Tea for respiratory complaints and discomforts.
Herbal Steam for Respiratory Support
Have you ever heard of using steam to soothe the respiratory system and open the airways? Inhaling steam in general, but especially with herbs, can be helpful to loosen mucous, open the nasal passage, and deliver herbal benefits to the mucous membranes in the respiratory tract.
To make an herbal steam, boil water and make a tea with your chosen herbs. Mullein is a great herb to use for herbal steam. Pour the steaming tea into a large bowl and lean your face over it. Cover your head and the bowl with a towel so the steam doesn’t escape. Inhale the steam for 1-2 minutes at a time, removing the towel in between to keep from getting overheated.
Respiratory Support Strategies
When struggling with respiratory complaints, consider what type of symptoms you have. Are you feeling dry and irritated? Maybe you notice excessive mucous. Different herbs will work better for different discomforts. Choose an herb that counteracts your presenting complaints and best supports your respiratory system.
Tinctures are also great for supporting respiratory discomforts. They are potent, shelf stable herbal extracts, easily absorbed by the body.
Stock Your Apothecary
Now is the time to make sure your cabinet is stocked with respiratory supporting herbs. When you start to experience discomfort, herbal support will only be a few steps away.
~ Hannah
