Top 5 Herbs for Respiratory Health — From Eyes to Lungs
- Danielle Smith
- May 4
- 3 min read
Your respiratory system is more than just your lungs. It begins with the delicate mucous membranes of the eyes and sinuses, flows through the nasal passages and throat, and extends deep into the lungs. This entire system can be overwhelmed by allergens, pollutants, infections, and inflammation.
Thankfully, nature offers powerful herbal allies that support the respiratory system from top to bottom — helping you breathe easier and recover faster.
Here are five of the best herbs for full-spectrum respiratory support — from soothing sore throats to clearing congested lungs.
1. Mullein (Verbascum thapsus)
Anti-inflammatory | Demulcent | Expectorant
Mullein is one of the best herbs for lung health. Its soft, fuzzy leaves are rich in soothing compounds that help calm inflammation and irritation in the throat and lungs.
Soothes dry, irritated tissues in the throat and bronchi
Reduces inflammation in cases of asthma, bronchitis, or chronic cough
Loosens and clears mucus, making it easier to breathe
This gentle yet effective herb is ideal for long-term lung support and is a key ingredient in our Lung Support Tea.
2. Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
Antiviral | Warming | Circulatory Stimulant
Ginger is a warming, spicy root known for its powerful antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps support the entire respiratory system and enhances the effects of other herbs in a blend.
Breaks up mucus and opens blocked sinuses
Improves circulation, helping herbs reach deeper tissues
Speeds up recovery from colds and flu
Ginger also relieves sore throats and helps prevent secondary infections, making it an essential ingredient in any respiratory support tea.
3. Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)
Antiseptic | Antiviral | Expectorant | Depurative
Thyme is a small herb with big power. This “hot” herb warms the body, opens the airways, and purifies the system.
Kills viruses and bacteria in the lungs and sinuses
Breaks up and expels mucus from the chest
Reduces inflammation in the bronchi and airways
Cleanses the blood and supports overall detoxification
Use thyme as a tea or in steam inhalation for quick relief from congestion and sinus pressure. It’s a key herb in our Lung Support Tea blend.
4. Elderberry (Sambucus nigra)
Antiviral | Anti-inflammatory | Allergy Relief
Elderberry is famous for its ability to support the immune system and fight viral infections. But it also offers direct respiratory benefits — especially in the upper respiratory tract.
Clears mucus from the nose and sinuses
Fights viruses that cause colds and flu
Eases allergy symptoms like sneezing, sinus pressure, and runny nose
Soothes inflammation in the throat and nasal passages
Elderberry works especially well when taken at the first sign of illness or during allergy season.
5. Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea)
Immune Booster | Antiseptic | Anti-allergy
Echinacea is best known for its immune-enhancing effects, but it also plays a vital role in respiratory health.
Stimulates the immune system to respond quickly to infections
Relieves sore throats and tonsillitis
Fights bacterial and viral infections
Reduces allergy symptoms and supports respiratory immunity
Use echinacea when you feel run down or at the start of a cold or throat infection for quicker recovery.
Holistic Support for the Whole Respiratory System
These five herbs work together to:
Soothe irritated mucous membranes
Fight off infections and viruses
Clear excess mucus
Reduce inflammation
Strengthen your respiratory defenses
From allergy relief to cold season support, these plants have you covered from the eyes and sinuses all the way to the base of the lungs.
Reference material: “Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine” Andrew Chevallier, FNIMH
Comments