How to clean the lungs?

Every day, about a quarter of a kilogram of pollutants (gases, dust, smoke, particles of dust, pollen, viruses, bacteria, fungal spores, etc.) enter the respiratory system. If the respiratory system is functional, it neutralizes them and expels them with mucus and air. If it is not working properly, contaminants entering the lungs and bronchi can cause many diseases. Most often, our respiratory system suffers from diseases caused by bacteria, viruses, allergens and smoking. Cough is a natural reflex to clear the respiratory tract. It does not always mean that you are sick. Coughing is a sensitive protective mechanism that nature has endowed us with. To help our body remove impurities and mucus in the respiratory tract, you can take advantage of the beneficial properties of plants. photo: Shutterstock / Mopic

Why plants?

It is most often used in digestive disorders and flatulence because it has relaxing properties. Peppermint oil contains menthol, which perfectly relaxes the smooth muscles of the respiratory tract and supports easy breathing. In combination with the antihistamine effect of mint, menthol is fantastic to reduce vascular congestion. Menthol lotions and ointments are used to lubricate the chest, and the oil is used for inhalation. Menthol helps to relieve the respiratory tract of runny nose as it dilutes the mucus making it easier to remove it. It is worth knowing that peppermint is an antioxidant, and when used regularly, it relieves the respiratory tract of harmful substances. photo: Shutterstock / Antonova Anna

The essential oil in eucalyptus has long been known as an adjuvant in the treatment of respiratory conditions. It works by increasing the secretion of mucus and reducing its viscosity, therefore also antitussive. It also has an antiseptic effect, which inhibits the growth of bacteria and fungi in the respiratory tract. The effectiveness of eucalipotus oil is related to the presence of a compound called cineole (also known as eucalyptol). Cyneol has many benefits – it is an expectorant, can soothe coughs, fights congestion and soothes irritated sinuses. Additionally, eucalyptus contains antioxidants that support the immune system. photo: Shutterstock / Olaf Speier

Common myrtle has secretolytic properties, i.e. it increases the secretion of mucus in the upper respiratory tract. The medicinal raw material is the leaves and fruits of myrtle, and sometimes flowers. Therapeutically, infusions of dried leaves, powdered leaves or an extract of them in the form of an oil are given. Myrtle oil contains large amounts of turpentine compounds, which facilitate breathing and remove secretions remaining in the respiratory tract. photo: Shutterstock / jurra8

In medicine, 3-4 years old roots of this plant are used. It contains large amounts of insulin as well as mucilage and essential oils that are expectorant but do not provoke coughing. photo: Shutterstock / Sever180

Osha is a herb native to the Rocky Mountains and has been used to heal the respiratory tract for centuries. The plant’s roots contain camphor and other compounds, making it one of the best herbs for maintaining proper lung function. The active substances contained in the roots of the plant improve blood circulation to the lungs, which allows deep breathing. photo: Shutterstock / Sergio Salvador

We like to add this herb to various dishes to enhance their flavor. But few people know that oregano contains vitamins and nutrients necessary for the proper functioning of the immune system. Oregano contains carvacrolic acid and rosemary acid, compounds that are natural vasoconstrictors and reduce the production of histamine, which has a beneficial effect on the respiratory tract and nasal patency. Oregano can be added to dishes, drink tea from dry leaves or use the oil of this herb for inhalation. photo: Shutterstock / Gts

The effectiveness of clearing the respiratory tract from the remains of nicotine and other toxic compounds requires consistency. The cleansing treatment should be longer, the longer the smoking period. To be successful, you need to change your diet and increase your physical activity. A person who has quit the addiction and wants to clear the respiratory tract can support the body with herbs. What will be helpful? green tea It is a powerful antioxidant that destroys free radicals. You should drink 3-4 cups of green tea every day. Sour potassium tartrate This drug will also help get rid of toxic substances from the respiratory tract. This natural plant-derived antioxidant can be purchased at the pharmacy. You can dissolve a tablespoon of the preparation in a glass of orange juice and drink it every day before going to bed. Both orange juice and potassium tartrate have the ability to absorb nicotine, which is excreted naturally in the morning. photo: Shutterstock / kuleczka