If you are resorting to conventional medicine to address these infections with antibiotics, you are not only adding to the problems associated with antibiotic resistance, but you’re also doing little to address the healing mechanisms within your body to address the cause.
There are numerous natural herbs and plants which can soothe the symptoms and prevent further complications. These 9 ones boost the immune system, promote healthy lungs, and fight colds and infections:
Eucalyptus Aborigines, Germans, and Americans have all used the refreshing aroma of eucalyptus to promote respiratory health and soothe throat irritation. Eucalyptus is a common ingredient in cough lozenges and syrups and its effectiveness is due to a compound called cineole, which works to ease cough, fight congestion and soothe irritated sinus passages. Eucalyptus also contains antioxidants that support the immune system during an illness.
Licorice root Licorice has a soothing effect on the body. It softens the mucous membranes in the throat, lungs, and stomach. It also works to cleanse any inflamed mucous membrane that needs the support of the immune system. Licorice root can naturally reduce irritation in the throat while helping the body expel mucus.
Osha root This root is native to the Rocky mountain area, and it contains camphor and other compounds that support the lungs, boost circulation to them and thus help breathing. Also, when seasonal sensitivities flare up your sinuses, Osha root does produce a similar effect like antihistamines and may help calm respiratory irritation.
Thyme This common herb can be used to fight chest congestion, thanks to its powerful antiseptic essential oils. Thyme oil is a natural antibiotic and antifungal. Drinking thyme tea can also help cleanse bacteria and viruses from the body to fight your infection.
Oregano Oregano herb contains vitamins and nutrients essential for the immune system. It contains compounds like rosemarinic acid and carvacrol, which are natural decongestants (relieves nasal congestion) and histamine reducers. Both have positive effects on the respiratory tract and nasal passage airflow.
Mullein Mullein can be used as a natural remedy to clear excess mucus from the lungs. Both the flowers and leaves of the mullein plant are used to make a powerful herbal extract. It has the ability to cleanse the bronchial tubes and reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract.
Peppermint Peppermint contains menthol, a shooting ingredient known to relax the respiratory tract muscles, thus promoting free breathing. Also, peppermint contains many other compounds like limonene and pulegone, which are great decongestants. Many people use therapeutic chest balms and other inhalants that contain menthol to help break up congestion. Additionally, peppermint is antioxidant and fights infections.
Sage Sage is a particularly useful treatment that can be easily made into tea or infusion. It is rich in essential oils, which are beneficial for the throat and lungs, soothes coughing, and calms airways. Essential oils present in sage are thujone, camphor, terpene, and salvene, which, when inhaled in vapor form, can dispel lung disorders and clean out your sinusitis.
Plantain leaf The plantain leaf has been used for hundreds of years to ease a cough and soothe irritated mucous membranes. Also, plantain leaf contains many anti-inflammatory and antitoxic compounds. Clinical trials have found it favorable against a cough, cold, and lung irritation. Additionally, it may help relieve a dry cough by spawning mucus production in the lungs.