Herbs to Support and Protect the Lungs

As the seasons shift and the air grows heavier with change—smoke, pollen, or just the quiet weight of collective emotion—it becomes more important than ever to care for our lungs. These vital organs are more than just our breath—they’re the bridge between our inner and outer worlds.

The lungs invite us to inhale what nourishes and exhale what no longer serves. But in times of environmental stress, emotional grief, or simply the dry winds of seasonal change, they can become taxed and tender.

In herbalism and yoga alike, we understand the lungs as sacred ground for both breath and emotion. Grief, sadness, and the challenge of letting go often live here. When we tend to our lungs with presence and intention—through breathwork, movement, and plant allies—we create space for both healing and renewal.

The lungs are constantly working on our behalf. Every moment, they’re drawing in oxygen, filtering out irritants, and delivering vital life force to every cell. And yet, many of us don’t think about supporting them until we’re already feeling depleted. Whether it’s seasonal allergies, lingering coughs, or the emotional tightness of holding it all in, our lungs benefit from regular care.

Let this be your reminder that tending to your lungs is a practice of love. Alongside mindful breathing, movement, and hydration, herbs can offer beautiful support—both for long-term lung health and acute moments of need.

The Emotional Wisdom of the Lungs

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the lungs are closely connected with grief, release, and the act of letting go. Even the word “inspiration” reminds us of their dual role—breathing in air, but also inspiration, clarity, and spirit. When we’re holding too tightly—whether to emotions, expectations, or old stories—the lungs often reflect that.

When this energy becomes stagnant, we might feel physically tight in the chest or struggle with sinus issues, allergies, or bronchial infections. But nature, in her wisdom, offers us plants that help us move and transform that stuck energy—so we can breathe freely again.

Herbal Allies for Lung Support

1. Astragalus

A cornerstone of Traditional Chinese Medicine, astragalus builds strength in the lungs and bolsters the immune system by supporting Wei Qi—our energetic shield. It’s a beautiful herb for long-term use to build resilience, especially during cold and flu season.

2. Osha Root

Native to the Rocky Mountains, osha helps loosen mucus, opens the lungs, and enhances oxygen uptake. It also supports detoxification and is often used in the early stages of a cold or respiratory infection.

3. Reishi Mushroom

Reishi is a deeply spiritual and physical tonic, nourishing the lungs, calming the nervous system, and offering immune support. If you feel depleted, anxious, or prone to frequent illness, this medicinal mushroom brings strength and serenity.

4. Mullein

This soft, wild-growing plant is a gentle yet powerful lung soother. Mullein leaf tea is perfect for dry coughs and inflamed tissues. It helps restore moisture to the respiratory tract and is especially helpful when the lungs feel scratchy or raw.

5. Wild Cherry Bark

A classic remedy in many cough syrups, wild cherry bark is calming and grounding for spasmodic coughs and shallow breathing. It helps regulate the rhythm of the breath and ease irritation in the bronchial passages.

6. Elecampane Root

Elecampane is a warming, stimulating lung tonic that helps clear deep congestion and lingering mucus. It’s especially useful for bronchitis or post-illness recovery when the lungs are still working hard to expel what’s left behind.

7. Nettle

Nettle is rich in chlorophyll, iron, and minerals, and acts as a natural antihistamine. It’s incredibly supportive for those with seasonal allergies, helping reduce inflammation and calm histamine reactions. It also nourishes and strengthens the blood—supporting oxygen transport and vitality.

8. Marshmallow Root

A deeply soothing demulcent, marshmallow root coats irritated lung tissues with mucilage, helping ease dry coughs and inflammation. It’s cooling, moistening, and offers gentle support for tissues that feel stripped or overworked.

9. Yerba Santa

This sacred herb from the American Southwest is often used to clear both physical and emotional congestion. It helps open the chest, move stuck phlegm, and is particularly powerful for grief held in the lungs. Energetically, it helps us express what’s been suppressed and breathe more deeply into our truth.

A Final Exhale

Your lungs are more than filters—they’re vessels of transformation. They hold the rhythm of your breath, the cadence of your emotions, and the potential for healing with every inhale and exhale.

Whether you’re navigating seasonal changes, recovering from illness, or simply feeling the weight of the world, these herbs can offer comfort, clarity, and strength.

So take a moment. Breathe deeply. Sip something warm. Exhale what no longer serves.

Your lungs—and your spirit—are worthy of that care.