Some Effective Herbs for Respiratory Problems

All one ought to know about respiratory problems

A respiratory infection is an infection related to the airways, throat, lungs or sinuses which generally occurs from a virus. RTIs (respiratory tract infections) are one of the most common reasons why one runs to a pharmacist. These infections are of many types of which the common cold is the most widespread.

As per health professionals, respiratory infections are of two types namely upper respiratory infection and lower respiratory infection. The upper respiratory infection mostly affects the throat; sinuses and the nose while lower respiratory infections mostly affect the lungs and the airways.

Children are more prone to respiratory infections compared to adults as they have not yet built up their resistance (immunity) to the several viruses that are likely to cause colds.

Respiratory infections are contagious. These infections are transmitted when viruses are spread to others mostly by personal contact, coughing or sneezing. One can also get infected by touching objects that had been touched by one with respiratory infections. There are ample herbs for respiratory problems that can ease the infection.

Signs and symptoms of upper and lower respiratory infection

Upper respiratory infection symptoms:

• Loss of appetite
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Slight fever
• Ear congestion
• Watery eyes
• Cough
• Nasal congestion, runny nose and sneezing
• Sore or scratchy throat

Lower respiratory infection symptoms

• Fatigue
• High fever
• Body aches
• Chest tightness
• Sore throat
• Blocked nose
• Sinusitis
• Headache
• Wheezing
• Breathlessness

Some effective herbs for respiratory problems

Licorice root: this herb contains anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties that help in soothing irritated membranes. It is highly beneficial in treating coughs and bronchitis. To add to it, it also contains some antimicrobial activities that help in fighting germs that are likely to have prompted the symptoms.

Mullein: this acts as a lung tonic that works to keep the pernicious features away from the respiratory tract along with helping to heal it. For best results take this herb as a tea.

Nettle: this is an effective herb for rounding out the holistic and herbal approach towards respiratory health. Nettle, since early times had been used for treating coughs. This herb is particularly indicated to treat allergic conditions that affect the lungs. This is also of the best herbs for respiratory problems.

Cordyceps Mushroom: This herb has myriad health benefits of which treating respiratory infections are one of them. It helps in dilating the airways of the lungs thereby providing more oxygen supply to the blood. Cordyceps Mushroom has proven effective in improving the respiratory system’s functioning and is also beneficial for those suffering from bronchitis, asthma, and cough due to the anti-inflammatory properties present in it as well as its ability to relax the bronchial walls.

These are some of the best herbs for respiratory problems that will help to soothe the infection.