Turmeric. Turmeric is a potent balancing and antioxidant herb, thanks in large part to its active compound curcumin. Its effectiveness in lung health is due to curcumin's ability to modulate a healthy inflammatory process, which is a common underlying factor in various respiratory conditions.
Using mullein tea for lung health
You can use mullein tea or other forms of the herb to improve lung health and reduce symptoms of respiratory illness. It has a long history of use and little to no side effects.
If you'd like to get rid of your phlegm, a nice cup of mint, thyme, chamomile or echinacea tea is a good option. Our Echinaforce Hot Drink, with echinacea and elderberry, works wonders against persistent mucus. Just add one teaspoon to a cup of hot water and enjoy!
Natural Remedies
Warm fluids: Drinking warm (not hot) liquids can help loosen thickened mucus. Try tea, warm broth, or hot water with lemon. Steam: You can use a device such as a cool-mist humidifier or steam vaporizer to breathe in warm air.
Green tea. Green tea contains many antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation in the lungs. These compounds may even protect lung tissue from the harmful effects of smoke inhalation.
For large pleural effusions, or for those with an unknown cause, the fluid will need to be drained through a procedure called thoracentesis. This involves inserting a needle in the space between the lung and the chest wall and draining the liquid.
Eucalyptus Tea: Eucalyptus oil is commonly used in over-the-counter lung decongestants. Drinking eucalyptus tea can help loosen mucus and soothe the respiratory system, making it easier to breathe.
Bacteria land on the mucus-lined surface of the lungs and get trapped. Then little hairs called cilia go to work. They push the mucus up and out of the lungs with all the trapped bacteria, viruses, and dust. “It comes up at sort of a nice slow rate to the back of the throat,” Boucher says.
Postural drainage. Postural drainage means lying down in different positions to help drain mucus from your lungs. You can do it on a bed or the floor. Use pillows to help you with different positions.
Mullein is an expectorant, which means it helps the body expel excess mucus. It usually works by helping make your coughs more productive, allowing you to clear mucus from your chest or throat. It is also a demulcent. Studies show that demulcents create a soothing anti-inflammatory coating over mucous membranes.
The Bottom Line. Mullein tea is safe to use and may be good to drink for your immune health and potentially to improve respiratory health. However, it isn't a cure or a medication, so talk to your doctor if you're having difficulty breathing or your respiratory symptoms are worsening.
Eucalyptus vapor inhalation
A great way to treat coughing and mucus in the lungs is to inhale vapor infused with eucalyptus.
Drain the sides of your lungs by lying on your side.
Make sure your chest is lower than your hips. Place two or three pillows under your hips. Use a small pillow under your head if it helps you feel more comfortable. While you rest in this position, do belly breathing.
In general, alcohol can increase inflammation in the lungs. For those with poor lung health, beer is a bad choice specifically because it's also carbonated and can cause bloating, which puts extra pressure on the lungs and can make it harder to breathe.
Vitamin A and Vitamin E
Research shows the lungs utilize vitamins A and E to prevent lung infections. Several studies have examined how these two vitamins (along with vitamin D) are linked to the body's ability to fend off respiratory infections.
Lungs is one of the most important organs which keeps us alive. Coffee, dark green vegetables, blueberries, apples and other healthy foods have been linked to better lung functioning. Incorporating such food into the diet support lung health and prevent health decline.
Lungs are self-cleaning organs that will begin to heal themselves once they are no longer exposed to pollutants. The best way to ensure your lungs are healthy is by avoiding harmful toxins like cigarette smoke, vaping and air pollution, as well as getting regular exercise and eating well.
Inhaling steam is a simple yet effective way to loosen mucus and soothe irritated airways. Fill a bowl with hot water, place a towel over your head, and inhale the steam for 10-15 minutes. You can add a few drops of essential oils like eucalyptus or peppermint for added relief.
Certain essential oils, such as eucalyptus, peppermint, and tea tree oil, are known for their decongestant properties. Otolaryngologists often suggest inhaling these oils through a diffuser or steam inhalation to alleviate nasal congestion naturally.