Here in Southern Oregon we are often dealing with very poor air quality conditions due to the surrounding forest fires. We will most likely be experiencing many more days of smoke and haze extending through the middle of October. These conditions are at the very least challenging to the body and have the potential to cause serious health issues in those of us who are immune compromised, suffer from pulmonary or cardiovascular disease, very young, and over the age of 65. It is important that we all take precaution to preserve our health over the next several weeks.
Breathe Deep!
Let’s have a look at some herbs and supplements that can help protect and heal our lungs after prolonged smoke exposure. If you are having significant lung symptoms including shortness of breath, wheezing or coughing, please call the office (541-210-5687) to make an appointment with a naturopathic doctor.
Herbs for Lung Health
I can’t speak enough about the wonder and benefits of herbs. The following are some amazing herbs that target lung health:
Mullein (Verbascum thapsus)
Mullein is indicated for dry, harsh, hacking coughs, and weak lungs. It is also helpful to the kidney and nervous system. The flowers of this plant are soothing and coat the lungs, while the leaves are more astringent and expectorant, helping the lungs to expel unwanted particles that have been inhaled. Mullein is typically used for hoarseness, coughs, bronchitis, asthma and other respiratory conditions. This wonderful herb can be enjoyed as a tea by placing 1 teaspoon into 1 cup of hot water, or in combination with other lung loving herbs in the form of a tincture.
Elecampane (Inula helenium)
Inula is an expectorant (helps get the junk out), an anti-inflammatory and tones the lungs. This herb is especially helpful for irritated lungs and chronic coughs, and commonly prescribed for chronic bronchitis, sinusitis, asthma and emphysema.
Yerba santa (Eriodictyon californicum)
This herb is sticky, sweet and aromatic. Yerba santa is primarily used for colds, laryngitis, bronchitis, asthma, hay fever and any condition where there is a dry cough.
Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
Licorice helps modulate the immune system and is soothing to mucus membranes. This herb can help calm and sooth the lining of the lungs for quicker healing. Licorice also has antibacterial and antiviral properties, which may be beneficial if there is any concern about an infection after lung inflammation. A note about licorice: Please consult a doctor before taking if you have high blood pressure.
Supplements for Lung Health
N-acetylcysteine (NAC)
NAC is used by the body to make glutathione and easily absorbed in the GI tract. The benefits of glutathione are vast, as it is an antioxidant found in every cell of our body. After significant toxin exposure, taking NAC to increase glutathione can help our body process and expel unwanted toxins from the body, including inhaled particulates. NAC is very safe to take and I recommend 1200mg daily.
Nutrition for Lung Health
We can’t forget that food is medicine, and how we eat can affect how our bodies adapt and heal to environmental stresses. First, eat a variety of plant-based foods to load up on powerful phytonutrients, which help cleanse the body and keep it running optimally. Certain foods can be extra helpful after all the smoke exposure and those include:
- Garlic has various anti-inflammatory properties along with a high level of allicin. This helps to fight infections and reduces inflammation.
- Ginger will help to clear your lungs thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. You can add ginger to various dishes, as it is a widely used herb. You can also use it to prepare ginger root tea blended with some lemon. This helps a great deal to remove toxins from the respiratory tract.
- Turmeric just like ginger and garlic, this spice is great for your lungs due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
- Apples are packed with flavonoids, vitamin E and vitamin C, apples have been studied for their beneficial effects on the lungs. Eating 3 or more a week have been shown to help decrease asthmatic attacks
- Water plays a huge role in health and is the base of any cleansing action. Pure, clean water is essential to keeping blood flowing to and from the lungs. It also keeps our lungs hydrated and increases healthy mucus production.
Here’s to blue skies and fresh air ahead!