Ever wondered if you could use something to help a bad cough or troubled breathing that didn’t come from a pharmaceutical company? You might have some solutions growing in your backyard.
There are a lot of herbs available for purchase or to grow yourself that can help with many health problems. There are plenty of herbs that help with respiratory problems. Try some of these the next time you find yourself in need and see what works best for you.
1. Mullein Leaf
When you are looking for something to help your respiratory health, it helps to understand your respiratory system and know what you’re working with. Mullein is a great option when it comes to healthy herbs, as it is a common weed found all over.
It’s considered a weed, but it can work wonders on respiratory problems. It can help ease spasms, dissipate dryness and tightness, and open the lungs more. Be careful if you’re picking it yourself since it can bear s striking resemblance to foxglove, which is toxic.
2. Astragalus
This herb is great to have around when you’re not even sick, since it has antioxidants that help give your immune system a boost. It can help with asthma and colds and the flu.
3. Plantain Leaf
This is another ordinary weed with some extraordinary abilities. It is often used for bug bites and stings, but can also help your respiratory health. It can help with dryness and irritation, and also get rid of some mucus.
The flavor is generally pleasant, so it can be used in a lot of ways. It grows all over the world and is often found in yards where pesticides aren’t used.
4. Peppermint
Peppermint is one of those healthy herbs most people know and associate with respiratory health. There is a reason, so many cough drops are mint flavored.
Peppermint has a lot of great benefits, including being an antihistamine. It helps keep your lungs and throat open and clear, lowering the inflammation. It can be added to food, drank in tea, or in many other forms.
5. Horehound Leaf
This natural herb may seem familiar since it’s used in many cough drops and syrups. If you have a lot of mucus and need relief, horehound is for you. It helps loosen and cut through mucus associated with sickness or general allergies. The flavor is very bitter, so consider using it as a tincture or in syrup.
Herbs that Help With Respiratory Problems
While the list above is a great start for herbs that help with respiratory problems, it is in no way complete. Many more options can help including licorice, Vasaka, and Osha root among others.
Your options for treating respiratory problems or boosting your respiratory health aren’t limited to the aisles of a drug store. You can find some solutions growing out in nature.
Many herbs can also boost your health to prevent future infections, so if you can’t grab some this round, remember them for the future. And if this helped you better understand healthy herbs and their benefits, keep reading for more good tips.