How to improve the health of the lungs and bronchi at home with natural remedies

Chronic cough, shortness of breath and frequent colds indicate a deterioration in the respiratory system. American expert on a healthy lifestyle, Dr. Eric Berg told what natural methods help relieve inflammation in the respiratory tract, why the lack of vitamins prevents the cleansing of the bronchi and how to safely maintain immunity.

Photo magnific The role of antibacterial therapy for acute cough With colds and uncomplicated bronchitis, self-administration of antimicrobials is usually impractical. In the vast majority of cases, these conditions are caused by viral agents, on which antibiotics do not have a therapeutic effect, but their unjustified use can negatively affect the microbiome of the gastrointestinal tract.

- According to various estimates, up to 95 percent of cases of acute lower respiratory tract infections, including uncomplicated bronchitis, have a viral etiology. However, antibacterial drugs are still often prescribed without proper indications. Such an effect can disrupt the balance of intestinal microflora, which is closely related to the overall resistance of the body. As a result, unreasonable intake of potent drugs can aggravate the course of the inflammatory process and delay the recovery period, explains Eric Berg.

When specific antiviral therapy is not required, pathogenetic and symptomatic support becomes a key task. To do this, natural remedies can be used that help to thin sputum, reduce the intensity of the cough reflex and reduce irritation of the mucous membranes. According to the expert, minerals and plant extracts can be used to ease coughing and relax the airways. They help the body gently cope with symptoms without causing addiction.

- Our body needs nutrient support when the protective barriers of the lungs are weakened by infection. One of the most studied substances is N-acetylcysteine (NAC). It is involved in the production of glutathione - a powerful internal antioxidant that protects lung tissue from damage, and also helps to liquefy thick sputum, reducing its viscosity for easier elimination. Magnesium is also important when coughing. Its lack often leads to a spasm of smooth muscles of the respiratory tract, which provokes wheezing and attacks of dry suffocation. Magnesium helps to relax the walls of the bronchi and normalize breathing, explains Eric Berg.

Among herbal remedies, the expert identifies components that help reduce swelling and facilitate the excretion of mucus:

1. Black cumin oil: helps reduce the severity of inflammation and swelling of the mucous membranes, and also has moderate antimicrobial properties.

2. Licorice root: gently envelops the irritated airways, calming the dry cough reflex, and stimulates the cleansing of the bronchi from accumulated mucus.

- Special attention should be paid to vitamin D3. A large number of receptors for this substance are concentrated in the lung tissues. Its deficiency is directly related to vulnerability to seasonal colds and a tendency to a protracted course of inflammation in the lower respiratory tract, the expert notes.

In Belarus, these plant extracts and nutrients are sold in pharmacies as dietary supplements or over-the-counter remedies. Note that licorice root can increase blood pressure, and black cumin oil has individual contraindications. Apply any supplements for protracted cough or asthma should only be after consulting a therapist.