For thousands of years, people have used Ayurvedic herbs to support respiratory health. Whether in teas, tinctures, supplements or elixirs, herbs and spices have the power to help strengthen healthy lungs and relax the bronchial system.* There’s nothing like a full inhale and complete exhale to de-stress, detox, and re-energize the body and mind.
Whether leaf, root, seed or stem, respiratory formulas that are fueled by the vital energy and bioactive compounds of plants can:
- Calm and soothe the lungs*
- Help to break up congestion*
- Relax the bronchial system*
- Support the respiratory system*
- Soothe and comfort the throat*
- Aid deep breathing and lung strength*
- Complement breathing exercises and pranayama practice
Meet three star herbs that have been included in traditional Ayurvedic respiratory formulas for millennia, and are now backed by modern research to help support normal, clear breathing.
1. Tulsi
Tulsi, an adaptogen and immunomodulator, is also effective at supporting healthy lung and heart function.* The potent herb, also known as Holy Basil, can aid normal chest expansion while simultaneously supporting the lungs.* According to Ayurveda, the herb supports balanced levels of kapha in the lungs, which is a dosha correlated to water and earth. Because Tulsi provides such profound stress support, it also helps relieve the nervous system to further support clear, relaxed breathing.*
2. Pushkarmool
Pushkarmool is a powerful herb that balances the Kapha dosha as it rejuvenates the lungs and supports a healthy inflammatory response.* The herb has many uses but is mainly used as an expectorant and bronchodilator. Expectorants work by thinning the mucus in your airway so you have more productive coughs. A bronchodilator relaxes the muscles in the lungs, widening your airway for regular, healthy breathing.*
3. Pippali
Pippali, also called Long Pepper, is an aromatic herb used for centuries for its broad restorative properties.* In Ayurveda, Pippali is a Rasayana, or rejuvenating herb, widely used to support respiratory health.* It helps to reinforce lung health and ease blockage. Pippali is a common ingredient in many Ayurvedic preparations due to its bioactive elements.
Each of these herbs can stand alone as an effective respiratory aid, but together they synergistically provide robust, full-spectrum support that nurtures the lungs and respiratory system through and through.*