Expectorant Foods & Herbs List: An Ayurveda Perspective
Expectorant Recipes Expectorant Ingredients Expectorant Herbs & Supplements AYURVEDIC PERSPECTIVE ON EXPECTORANTExpectorants help you eliminate mucus from the lungs. These herbs often work by increasing the quantity of mucus, or thinning the mucus. Expectorants are indicated when phlegm congests the lower respiratory tract.Mucus Cleanses & Protects the LungsMucus is essential for transport of dust, debris, allergens and irritants out of the lungs. It also traps bacteria and dilutes irritants, making them less harmful. Mucus contains antibacterial and antivral properties, including antibodies (IgA).The cilia, tiny hairs lining the lungs, move the debris filled mucus out of the lungs. Without mucus the cilia would not be able to cleanse the lungs. Mucus & CoughingSimilarly, for a cough to be productive, mucus must be present. A cough is the body's vital reaction to the presence of some irritant in the lungs. Once the irritant is trapped in mucus, a cough can rapidly clear it. A dry cough fails to clear the lungs of irritants.Phlegm: Toxic MucusWhen the body fails to produce enough mucus, or fails to metabolize it, the mucus will stagnate, and then thicken or harden, turning into phlegm, a toxic substance. Instead of killing microbes, phlegm becomes a harbor to bacteria to proliferate and could trigger a lung infection.Expectorant TypesSome expectorant increase bronchial secretions and reduces viscosity and stickiness of mucus, making it easier to expectorate.
Lifestyle Tips for Clearing Morning MucusMucus builds while sleeping and lying down at night due to slowed circulation and less movement. The following tips may help clear the lungs first thing in the morning:
OTHER HERB ACTIONS AFFECTING RESPIRATORY-HEALTHHELPFUL FOR*'Expectorant' may be helpful for these symptoms and causes below.About the Author John Immel, the founder of Joyful Belly, teaches people how to have a healthy diet and lifestyle with Ayurveda biocharacteristics. His approach to Ayurveda is clinical, yet exudes an ease which many find enjoyable and insightful. John also directs Joyful Belly's School of Ayurveda, offering professional clinical training in Ayurveda for over 15 years.John's interest in Ayurveda and specialization in digestive tract pathology was inspired by a complex digestive disorder acquired from years of international travel, as well as public service work in South Asia. John's commitment to the detailed study of digestive disorders reflects his zeal to get down to the roots of the problem. His hope and belief in the capacity of each & every client to improve their quality of life is nothing short of a personal passion. John's creativity in the kitchen and delight in cooking for others comes from his family oriented upbringing. In addition to his certification in Ayurveda, John holds a bachelor's degree in mathematics from Harvard University. John enjoys sharing Ayurveda within the context of his Catholic roots, and finds Ayurveda gives him an opportunity to participate in the healing mission of the Church. Jesus expressed God's love by feeding and healing the sick. That kindness is the fundamental ministry of Ayurveda as well. Outside of work, John enjoys spending time with his wife and 6 kids, and pursuing his love of theology, philosophy, and language. |