Trouble breathing can be a symptom of many lung and airway conditions, from a simple common cold to a nurturing condition like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Although different, these conditions share some symptoms, for example coughing and shortness of breath.
In addition to medical therapies to deal with these temporary, long-standing or chronic conditions, nature offers a legion of options to help combat some of your most uncomfortable symptoms.
The most popular herbs for respiratory problems are:
Table of Contents
Ginseng (Panax quiquefolius)
A 2020 study looked at the role of this plant in alleviating microbial infections of the respiratory tract. He concluded that although more studies are needed to observe the molecular functioning of ginseng in the respiratory tract, this plant has been shown to act to relieve these types of infections.
Ginseng (Panex quiquefolius) | Photo: Getty Images
Research explains that environmental exposure to fine particles in polluted air is the main risk factor for lung dysfunction.
This exposure can alter the development of both immune function and lung mechanics, including a substantial adverse impact on health, mainly in growing children and immunosuppressed patients.
Sage (Salvia officinalis)
In the form of oil or infusions, this herb has been used since ancient times to help patients with coughs and lung problems breathe easier.
A 2014 study explains that sage tea has traditionally been used to treat digestive and circulatory disorders, bronchitis, cough, asthma, angina, mouth and throat inflammations, depression, excessive sweating, skin conditions, and many other illnesses. .
The oils have been used in the treatment of a wide range of diseases such as those of the nervous system, heart and blood circulation, the respiratory system, the digestive system, and metabolic and endocrine diseases.
Additionally, sage essential oil has been shown to have carminative, antispasmodic, antiseptic, and astringent properties.
Research indicates that this powerful herb is especially helpful in supplementing medical treatments for respiratory conditions.
The herbal universe of traditional medicine is huge. A study on the use of plants in Pakistan reveals that 384 species belonging to 85 families of plants are used in that country alone to treat respiratory disorders.
Thyme (thymus vulgaris)
Thyme extract is an expectorant herb widely used in traditional Chinese medicine, India and other Asian countries, according to a study in the European Respiratory Journal.
Thyme (thymus vulgaris) | Photo: Getty Images
This popularity has traveled to Europe and other regions.
Researchers emphasize the need for more rigorous studies on this plant, but admit the empirical efficacy that it has demonstrated over the centuries.
Echinacea
This plant has been studied extensively to help relieve the symptoms of upper respiratory infections, and to treat viruses that affect the respiratory tract.
Echinacea, or purple cone flower, is a plant of which three species are used for medicinal purposes. The components are known to vary between the three species. A variety of preparations, including extracts, roots, aerial parts, and rhizomes, have been used for prophylaxis and therapy.
Echinacea | Photo: Getty Images
Science has carried out studies on this plant for decades, with mixed results, although there is a consensus on its effectiveness in minimizing the symptoms of the common cold.
This information has been taken from the sources described throughout the article and cited below. But they do not replace the advice of your doctor.
Sources: Scientific Studies, MedlinePlus.
