The coronavirus attacks the lungs, and the viral infection leads to a respiratory illness called COVID-19. There are several potential coronavirus herbal remedies that target the lungs, in particular, and these herbs may provide positive benefit when it comes to protecting your respiratory health.
It turns out that certain traditional herbal remedies are particularly targeted to the lungs. Since the coronaviruses tend to attack the lungs out of all the tissues in the body, there is particular interest in the benefits of these herbs in supporting COVID-19.
These potential coronavirus herbal remedies have long been used in traditional Chinese medicine, and the information on these herbs comes from one of the oldest textbooks in China called Treaties on Cold Damage Diseases, written in 220 AD.
There is some interesting research that provides compelling data on the effects of these kinds of herbal remedies on previous coronavirus strains, as well as on this current virus. If you want to check out some of the research for yourself, click on the links in the references section below to learn more.
5 Herbs that may support lung and respiratory health
There are many different herbs that are particularly powerful for supporting your lungs and protecting respiratory health.
Not all of the herbs discussed in the studies linked below are available in the US. Here, I’ve highlighted 5 of the top herbs that are easier accessible and may be worth looking further into:
1. Glycyrrhizin
Glycyrrhizin is a compound that is extracted from black licorice root. This compound appears to be a powerful inhibitor for SARS and related coronaviruses.
A study from a highly credible paper (The Lancet) revealed very positive outcomes in the respiratory system associated with this herbal product. Some of the outcomes include:
Antiviral properties.
Decreasing penetration of the virus inside the cell in vitro.
Increasing T cells.
Generating healthy mucus.
Inhibiting other viruses such as hepatitis and HIV.
2. Mayberry leaf
Mayberry leaf is another of the ancient Chinese remedies that may provide positive benefit when it comes to the coronavirus.
Mayberry leaf is thought to have anti-inflammatory effects. In traditional Chinese medicine, it is considered to moisten the lung system and is often used for dry coughs (one of the main symptoms of COVID-19).
3. Skullcap
Skullcap is an herb that is often used to support respiratory infections and lung health.
Baicalin, one of the main natural chemicals in skullcap, has been shown to have anti-SARS COVID-2 benefits. In particular, studies show that it inhibits the receptor that the virus uses to enter a cell.
4. Chinese cedar
Chinese cedar is another potential coronavirus natural remedy. In traditional Chinese medicine practices, it is thought to target the lungs, and it has a long history of being used to treat colds, flus, respiratory illnesses, and chest infections.
5. Elderberry
Elderberry is a well-known natural remedy for cold and flu symptoms. You may have heard of using elderberry syrup as an immune-boosting supplement for when you are sick. Many people use it to try and lessen the severity of their illnesses, or to shorten the duration.
Elderberry is a powerful immune booster, and it is yet another herbal remedy that especially benefits the lungs.
Important note
I think this is very interesting information to know about, but here is an important disclaimer to keep in mind: I am not suggesting that any of these herbs can cure any viruses at all. The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only.
Do your own research on these topics and explore additional information. And always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical advice to diagnose, prevent, or treat illnesses.
Other ways to boost your immune system during this time
Coronavirus herbal remedies may be worth looking further into, but the most important thing to do during this pandemic to protect yourself against COVID-19 is to keep your immune system strong.
To learn more about boosting your immune system and making it stronger than ever, go here.
For other tips on staying healthy and safe from the coronavirus, check out these videos: