14 Best Herbs for Lung Health

To support lung function, in addition to maintaining a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle, you may consider incorporating some safe, natural herbs. Curious about which herbs can benefit respiratory wellness?

In this article, we explore a curated list of high-quality options worth considering. You’ll also learn safe and effective ways to use them, maximizing benefits while minimizing potential side effects.

Best Herbs for Lung Health: A Quick Table

14 Herbal Teas for Lung Health: Detailed Overview

Thyme

Thyme is an aromatic herb from the mint family. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and natural antioxidants, this medicinal plant can help support overall wellness while also promoting lung health.

In a study conducted by Marinelli Oliviero and colleagues (2016), thyme extract was widely used in herbal preparations for its properties in easing mucus, soothing the throat, and relaxing respiratory passages by reducing levels of the transcription factor proteins NF-κB p65 and NF-κB p52, which in turn lowers pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1 beta and IL-8) [1].

When discussing herbs beneficial for the lungs, thyme is commonly recommended for those looking to support respiratory wellness, thanks to its ability to help clear mucus and promote easier breathing.*

How to use:

Add one teaspoon of thyme powder to water, bring to a boil, and let it sit for 10 minutes to release its beneficial compounds, then strain out the solids. Enjoy it with a few drops of lemon juice to enhance antioxidant effects. It can be consumed up to three cups per day.

Nettle

Nettle is a herbaceous plant with flowers, notable for its leaves covered in tiny hairs that can cause itching.

However, when properly processed into powder, it is considered a valuable herb, rich in vitamins (such as vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin K, etc.) and antioxidants (including beta-carotene, lutein, luteoxanthin, etc.) that are beneficial for overall wellness.

Of particular note is nettle’s strong antioxidant capacity, which helps support general health and promotes the protection of lung cells against unfriendly agents.

How to use:

Place dried nettle leaves (or pre-ground powder in a tea bag) into a cup of hot water and let it steep for a few minutes.

Alternatively, you can add the leaves or powder directly to water and bring it to a boil. Let it steep for about 5 minutes, then strain using a suitable filter and enjoy while hot. You may add a little honey or cinnamon to enhance flavor and make it more enjoyable.

Oil of Oregano

Oregano Oil is well-known for its potent antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Traditionally, it has been used in folk medicine to support respiratory wellness, including relief for symptoms like occasional cough or bronchial irritation (Jacob P. Veenstra, 2019) [3].

These benefits come from its strong antioxidant compounds, such as carvacrol, phenols, and terpenes [2, 3].

How to use:

Add a recommended amount of oregano oil, following the instructions on the product label, to your food and enjoy.

Be mindful to limit use alongside supplements or medications related to blood thinning, iron, copper, or zinc supplementation, or blood sugar support.

Licorice

Licorice is a widely used herbal remedy with a long history of supporting digestive comfort, such as occasional acid reflux, dental sensitivity, or stomach discomfort, thanks to its active compound, glycyrrhizin.

This compound also helps loosen mucus, promoting easier breathing. Additionally, licorice contains flavonoids with antioxidant properties, which contribute to protecting lung cells (Taniguchi et al., 2023).

How to use:

Brew 1 teaspoon of dried licorice root in 8–10 ounces of water and bring to a strong boil. Let it steep for 5–10 minutes to release its beneficial compounds, then mix with a little honey and enjoy.

Oregon Grape

Oregon grape is a shrub native to the western United States, producing small dark green berries that resemble grapes.

The root and stem are primarily used due to their berberine content—an alkaloid that supports digestive wellness. In addition, berberine exhibits antibacterial and antifungal properties, which can help maintain healthy lung cells.

How to use:

Add 1–3 teaspoons of Oregon grape powder (5–15 grams) to 2 cups (500 ml) of water and simmer for 15 minutes. Allow the tea to cool naturally, strain, and drink directly (up to 3 cups per day).

Schisandra

Schisandra is a climbing vine with bright red berries, used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 2,000 years to support liver health, digestive balance, and vitality.

A 2020 study highlighted Schisandra’s ability to help protect lung cells from oxidative stress, regulate cell growth, reduce malondialdehyde, and increase antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase and glutathione.

Compounds in Schisandra may also help modulate the activity of cytokines that impact lung cells (Zhang et al., 2020).

How to use:

Soak 3 grams of dried Schisandra powder in warm water for 40–60 minutes. Strain the solids, add a small amount of ginger, cinnamon, or licorice root, stir well, and enjoy.

Plantain

Plantains are well-known as a fiber- and carbohydrate-rich fruit that can support digestive function and provide natural energy. They are also a staple in African, Caribbean, and Latin American cuisines

Beyond nutrition, plantains have traditionally been used to support upper respiratory comfort.

While scientific evidence is still limited, their rich content of antioxidants and antibacterial compounds, such as vitamins A and C, suggests that plantains may help support respiratory wellness, soothe the throat, and promote easier breathing (Wegener T;Kraft K, 1999).

In discussions about Herbs that benefit lungs, many users mention plantains for their ability to calm the throat and aid respiration. Simply including plantains as a daily dessert or snack can contribute to these supportive effects.*

How to use:

Take 3–4 plantain leaves and add them to 240 ml (about 1 cup) of water. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat and let steep for 3 minutes.

Strain the liquid and enjoy as a beverage. Limit consumption to a maximum of 3 cups per day.

Bayberry

Bayberry is a shrub native to Texas and the eastern United States. Historically, its bark, roots, and berries have been used in traditional wellness practices.

Scientific interest in bayberry includes its naturally occurring flavonoids, which have been shown in laboratory studies to exhibit antibacterial activity [7].

How to use:

To prepare a tea, add 1 teaspoon of dried bayberry to 250 ml of water, bring to a boil for 5 minutes, then strain before drinking. For taste, a small amount of fruit jam may be added.

Black Seed Oil

Black seed oil, extracted from Nigella sativa, has been used for centuries in traditional medicine as a potent antioxidant due to its thymoquinone content. It may support natural defenses and help protect the body from environmental stressors [10].

How to use:

Consume ½–1 teaspoon (1–3 mg) directly before meals, or mix into a salad.

Elecampane

Elecampane is an herb resembling a daisy, with long, narrow petals and fragrant roots. It contains compounds like alantolactone and soluble fiber inulin, which may support respiratory comfort and gut health [11].

How to use:

Boil about 1 gram of tea powder (¼ teaspoon) with clean water for 10–20 minutes. Then strain out the solids and enjoy.

Yarrow

Yarrow is a versatile herb traditionally used to support wound healing, digestive comfort, and relief from menstrual discomfort.

A 2020 study confirmed that its strong antioxidant compounds may help support respiratory health, including protection against bacterial or viral stressors and mild cold symptoms [12, 13, 14].

How to use:

Choose one of the following preparations:

• Mix ½ teaspoon dried yarrow, ½ teaspoon dried expectorant root, 1 teaspoon dried mint leaves, and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then add ½ teaspoon honey before drinking.

• Mix 1 teaspoon dried yarrow with 1 teaspoon dried hawthorn berries and water, boil, and enjoy.

• Mix ½ teaspoon dried yarrow, ½ teaspoon dried marigold flowers, ½ teaspoon dried licorice root, and 3 cups of water. Boil and enjoy warm.

English Ivy

English ivy is a fast-growing climbing plant commonly found in the UK.

While it can sometimes compete with other vegetation, it is valued for its strong antioxidant content, including numerous polyphenols, which may help support respiratory comfort in children, such as easing occasional cough or mild asthma symptoms [15].

Additionally, like many other green plants, English ivy can contribute to cleaner indoor air by helping filter dust and impurities, promoting a fresher environment.

How to use:

Soak 1 teaspoon of dried English ivy leaves in hot or boiling water for 5–10 minutes. You may then bring it to a gentle boil again, strain out the solids, and enjoy. Adjust the strength according to your preference, whether you like a milder or stronger infusion.

Ginseng

Ginseng is a perennial root long valued in traditional Asian and North American medicine as a natural wellness-supporting herb. It may help ease minor discomfort associated with occasional colds in adults and support healthy inflammatory responses in cells [16].

How to use:

You can purchase pre-packaged ginseng tea bags and steep 1 bag in 100 ml of warm water. For added flavor, consider a small amount of sugar or honey to naturally sweeten the tea and enhance its aroma.

Turmeric

Turmeric is a natural herb renowned for its strong antioxidant properties, which help support the body’s natural defenses—a benefit confirmed by numerous studies.

Its most active compound, curcumin, is highly bioactive and contributes to turmeric’s antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties, helping protect cells from environmental stressors (including brain and digestive cells).

Additionally, research has indicated that curcumin may help support healthy lung function and overall respiratory comfort in both acute and chronic situations [17].

How to use:

• Bring water to a boil, then add 1–2 teaspoons of pure turmeric powder. Stir well and simmer for 3–5 minutes. Strain the solids, then add honey and lemon to taste before enjoying.

• For best results, consume this tea 1–2 times per day, preferably after meals.

Conclusion

The herbs listed above are considered some of the best options to support lung health. Ultimately, your choice should depend on personal preference and individual wellness needs.

Consulting a healthcare professional or registered dietitian can help you select the most suitable products.

It is important to note that these herbs are meant to support respiratory wellness and cannot be considered a remedy for any lung-related conditions. For optimal lung health, focus on a balanced diet, healthy lifestyle habits, and regular medical check-ups.