A Cup Of Herbal Tea For Healthy Lungs

The obligatory home arsenal at the first symptoms of a persistent cough, no doubt, includes the shock dose of hot herbal tea. The endless healing benefits of the aromatic, warming drink are well known - from calming the gastrointestinal tract, through controlling nervous tension or cold symptoms, to improving good mood throughout the day. But can herbal teas really help with lung problems and especially chronic diseases such as asthma and COPD?

Back in history, herbal teas and decoctions have been cited as a valuable ally in the prevention and overall strengthening of the respiratory tract. Yet very few scientists are adamant whether these natural remedies would help specifically with asthma. "I have not been able to find any research or evidence in this direction," said Dr. John Mark, a professor of pediatric pulmonology at Stanford University in California. But he also admits that he has not encountered the opposite: "All ancient cultures have used teas such as licorice, eucalyptus and ginger for respiratory symptoms, and we have not seen any side effects."

Dr. Mark says the only ingredient he can confidently say has an effect on lung health is caffeine. His statement is supported by pulmonologist Dr. Carina Keo of the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. Both are adamant that caffeine can help relax the smooth muscles of the lungs and act as a bronchodilator, helping to open the airways.

Such studies, although scarce, exist, but according to the study, to have an effect, patients should take 5 milligrams of caffeine per 1 kilogram of body weight, which is equal to about 3 cups of coffee or 8 cups of black tea a day. But not everyone would tolerate such quantities.

Therefore, although with unproven benefits, it is better to rely on a few herbal teas, which are commonly found as allies in the prevention of chronic lung diseases such as bronchial asthma.

1 . Licorice tea

This sweet-tasting tea is well known as a remedy for lung diseases such as asthma. According to scientists, licorice makes saliva thicker and triggers the production of mucus, which can "cover" and calm the airways. The effect is especially useful when a whooping cough threatens to cause an asthma attack.

However, when used long-term, licorice can raise blood pressure.

2. Ginger tea

Ginger tea has been used for centuries in asthma, and its anti-inflammatory properties are the most valuable. It would also help relax the smooth muscles in the lungs.

3. Eucalyptus tea

Eucalyptus is believed to have a muscle-relaxing effect that has a beneficial effect on the upper and lower respiratory tract. Some people with irritable bowel syndrome even use it to calm their digestive system. Similarly, eucalyptus tea can have an antispasmodic (muscle calming) effect on the lungs and help make breathing easier.

Its only downside is proven reflux, as it can exacerbate symptoms by relaxing the muscles that prevent stomach acid from "creeping" through the esophagus.

4. Mint tea

Mint "works" like eucalyptus - both for the respiratory tract and reflux.

5. Dill tea

Another herb that is traditionally believed to have an antispasmodic effect is dill.

6. Green tea

Green tea , which usually contains about 27 milligrams of caffeine in a fragrant cup, can really benefit respiratory health.

7. Black tea

Black tea is known to contain close to 50 milligrams of caffeine in one cup.