People across continents and across time have used local, natural-growing herbs as medicine. Here are three herbs traditionally used with regard to lung health and what modern science tells us about how they help.
What Herbs Are Good
For Lungs?
Mullein Leaf
Mullein leaf, also known as Verbascum thapsus, is a tall, flowering plant that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. It is native to Europe and Asia, but is now found throughout the world. Mullein leaf has a long history of use as a natural remedy for respiratory conditions, including bronchitis, asthma, and coughs.
The active compounds in mullein leaf are thought to have anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, which may help to reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract and improve mucus secretion. A review of studies published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that mullein leaf extract was effective at reducing inflammation in the respiratory tract and improving symptoms of bronchitis in animal studies. Another study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that mullein leaf was effective at reducing cough frequency and severity in children with upper respiratory infections.
Pine Bark
Pine bark, also known as Pinus spp., is a type of tree that is native to North America. Pine bark has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, and is thought to have a variety of health benefits, including improving lung function and reducing inflammation in the respiratory tract.
The active compounds in pine bark are thought to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract and improve lung function. A review of studies published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that pine bark extract was effective at reducing inflammation in the respiratory tract and improving symptoms of asthma in animal studies. Another study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that pine bark extract was effective at improving lung function and reducing inflammation in the respiratory tract in humans.
American Ginseng
American ginseng (a different species from Asian ginseng), also known as Panax quinquefolius, is a type of plant that is native to North America. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, and is thought to have a variety of health benefits, including improving lung function and reducing inflammation in the respiratory tract.
The active compounds in American ginseng are thought to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract and improve lung function. A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that American ginseng was effective at reducing inflammation in the respiratory tract and improving lung function in mice. Another study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that American ginseng was effective at reducing inflammation in the respiratory tract and improving symptoms of asthma in humans.
Mullein leaf, pine bark, and American ginseng are three natural remedies that have been traditionally used to support lung health. These remedies may help to reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract and improve lung function. If you’re looking for a lung supplement that contains all three, try BetterLungs.
As always, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement or natural remedy, as they may interact with medications or have potential side effects.