Within your chest, protected by your ribcage, are your lungs. Each lung comprises sections, or lobes. In a normal, healthy individual, the lungs are soft and easily perform their primary function: gas exchange. The American Thoracic Society states that your lungs possess several mechanisms to protect them from irritants, or potentially damaging substances. Some herbal remedies may also help improve the health and function of your lungs. Discuss the possible risks and benefits of herbs with your health care provider.
Respiratory Disease
Respiratory diseases, also known as lung disease, are conditions or disorders that manifest within your lungs and may cause breathing difficulties and other symptoms. There are many types of respiratory disease, although some of the most commonly known diseases include asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia, tuberculosis and lung cancer. Approximately 335,000 Americans die from respiratory diseases every year, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center, making respiratory disease the No. 3 cause of death among Americans.
Appropriate Herbal Remedies
Appropriate herbal remedies for your lungs help promote the proper functioning of these organs while clearing mucus and debris and soothing any irritated tissues. Certain herbs may also ward off pathogens that can affect your lungs and cause chronic health problems. Dr. Sharol Tilgner, author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," states that herbs that possess decongestant, anti-inflammatory, drying and antimicrobial action include echinacea, cayenne, ginger, osha, cherry bark, elecampane, goldenseal, coltsfoot and yerba santa. Some of these herbs may not have been studied using contemporary research methods.
A Powerful Herb
Yerba santa is a powerful herbal remedy in treating lung conditions. In his book "Plant Medicine in Practice," naturopathic physician and herbal medicine expert William A. Mitchell Jr. states that yerba santa has traditionally been used in treating irritating, dry and persistent coughs as well as coughing associated with bronchial asthma and pneumonia. The leaves of the yerba santa plant, notes Mitchell, contain most of this plant's medicinal ingredients and are used in herbal supplements and preparations.
Considerations
Certain lung diseases may lead to dire health consequences if they are not diagnosed and treated in a timely fashion. If you are experiencing breathing difficulties, chest tightness or any of the other common lung-related symptoms, schedule an appointment with your primary care provider as soon as possible. Herbal remedies have long been used in treating lung conditions, although herbs may cause undesired side effects in some people and should be avoided or discontinued immediately at the first sign of problems.
References
- American Thoracic Society: Anatomy and Function of the Normal Lung
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Respiratory Disease
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
