Many people struggle with respiratory problems. These can include a wide range of conditions, from sinus infections to allergies. While you should talk to your doctor about any health problems you have, it’s also important to consider ways to get relief. Herbal remedies may be more accessible than you realize for respiratory problems. Take a look at some of the most commonly used methods.
Echinacea is good for inflammation relief
Echinacea is one of the most effective options for reducing overall inflammation in the body. It works well to help clear the respiratory tract, allowing you to breathe with less congestion. It can also reduce the inflammation that is common with the illness. Many people benefit from using this as a treatment, as well as a preventative tool.
Use licorice root for its soothing properties
Many people love the flavor of licorice, but it actually offers a number of health benefits, too. Specifically, licorice root works well as an antiviral and expectorant. That means it can help you cough up the mucus and congestion deep in your lungs, giving you relief. It also works as a natural anti-inflammatory that can help soothe tenderness and pain. It’s full of antioxidants that can help reduce airway inflammation as well.
Peppermint works to reduce free radicals
Respiratory problems stem from a combination of health ailments, including the presence of toxins in cells. Peppermint can help get rid of these. It works in several ways. First, it helps get rid of free radicals, those toxins that are built up in your cells. It also helps soothe inflammation. It has a cooling sensation because it contains menthol. That helps open up your breathing passageways to allow you to breathe in deeply. Many people find this is one of the best herbal remedies for colds because it also tastes good.
Ginkgo helps with asthma
Some experts recommend the use of ginkgo for those who struggle with asthma. It does not cure it, but it can reduce the symptoms you feel from having asthma, giving you a significant amount of relief. It works by inhibiting platelet-activating factor, or PAF, which helps prevent an asthma attack from occurring. If you have one, you may find it can also help you control wheezing. It also works for those without asthma but who have a constant cough.
Use wild cherry to help prevent lung inflammation
Wild cherry bark is an excellent solution for those who want to prevent inflammation in the lungs from occurring. It works as an antitussive, which means it helps you stop coughing. It can help improve your ability to breathe in deeply as well. Some people with chronic respiratory conditions will find it can be an effective way to relax the system, reducing the amount of energy you need to breathe in. It can also help bronchial infections heal faster.
Use reishi as a tonic
Reishi is a medicinal mushroom that’s been used for hundreds of years for this specific goal. Used as a tonic, this herbal treatment works to not only soothe inflammation in the lungs, it also can protect your lungs from illness. Taking it before you get sick, for example, can give you a bit of protection. You will also find it’s an excellent immune system booster.
Choose mullein for irrigation
For those with lung irritation and pain, including a sore throat, choose mullein. You can use it in its dry form, or you can make a tea with it. In all cases, it helps encourage natural secretions, helping reduce the pain and discomfort from a raspy throat.
Ready to find solutions to your breathing problems?
At Integrated Oriental Medicine, we provide a wide range of solutions across all bodily functions. If you are struggling with breathing issues due to allergies or other factors, we can help you. Call our offices at 206-440-1634 or book an appointment online.
