Respiratory & Lungs

Asthma & Bronchitis

Open the airways, thin mucus, and calm bronchial inflammation with antispasmodic and expectorant botanicals.

Prevention

Key nutrients: Magnesium, vitamin D, vitamin C, omega-3, quercetin, N-acetylcysteine (NAC), antioxidants.

Eat regularly: Oily fish (salmon, sardines, mackerel), pumpkin seeds, almonds, dark leafy greens, berries, apples, onions, garlic, ginger, turmeric, citrus, bell peppers.

Avoid smoke and indoor air pollutants; identify and reduce food and environmental triggers (dairy, sulfites, dust, mold).

Magnesium

MineralStrong evidence

300–500 mg/day glycinate relaxes bronchial smooth muscle; IV magnesium is used in acute asthma attacks.

Mullein leaf

HerbTraditional use

Tea or tincture loosens mucus and soothes bronchial irritation; classic lung tonic for wet coughs and bronchitis.

Thyme

HerbModerate evidence

Strong tea or steam inhalation — antispasmodic and antimicrobial expectorant for bronchitis and productive cough.

Eucalyptus steam

HerbModerate evidence

A few drops in hot water, inhale 10 minutes 2–3×/day to open airways and loosen phlegm.

N-acetylcysteine (NAC)

OtherStrong evidence

600 mg 2–3×/day thins thick bronchial mucus and replenishes glutathione; useful in chronic bronchitis and COPD.

Vitamin D3

VitaminStrong evidence

Correct deficiency (1000–4000 IU/day) — low vitamin D is linked to more frequent asthma exacerbations.

Boswellia serrata

HerbModerate evidence

300 mg standardized extract 3×/day reduces bronchial inflammation in asthma.

Quercetin

OtherModerate evidence

500 mg 2×/day stabilizes mast cells and reduces histamine-driven bronchoconstriction.

Elecampane root

HerbTraditional use

Traditional expectorant — decoction or tincture for chronic damp coughs and bronchitis.

Kali Muriaticum 6X (tissue salt)

MineralTraditional use

Schüssler salt — 4 tablets 2–3× daily for thick, white, sticky bronchial mucus and chest congestion.

Kali Sulphuricum 6X (tissue salt)

MineralTraditional use

4 tablets 2–3× daily once mucus turns yellow or greenish — the later-stage catarrh and bronchitis salt.

Ferrum Phosphoricum 6X (tissue salt)

MineralTraditional use

4 tablets every 1–2 hours at the first sign of bronchial inflammation, low-grade fever, or dry irritated cough.

A note of caution. Natural doesn't mean risk-free. Herbs and supplements can interact with medications, affect pregnancy, or worsen certain conditions. Speak with a qualified clinician before starting a new regimen, especially if you take prescriptions.