Phlegm Causes, Medicinal Herbs And Herbal Preparations
Phlegm is a thick, sticky substance produced by the body in response to illness or injury, typically consisting of mucus and other bodily fluids.
To treat phlegm ailments, herbal remedies have been used for centuries, offering a natural and effective approach to managing symptoms.
Various herbs such as ginger, turmeric, and thyme are commonly used due to their anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, which help to break down and expel excess mucus.
Herbal preparations like teas, tinctures, and infusions made from herbs like eucalyptus, peppermint, and licorice root are also beneficial in treating phlegm ailments, as they can help to soothe the respiratory system and promote relaxation.
What causes phlegm?
The primary causes of phlegm are respiratory infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia, which trigger the body to produce excess mucus as a defense mechanism.
Secondary causes include allergies, asthma, and sinus infections, as these conditions can irritate the airways and lead to increased mucus production.
Lifestyles that increase the chances of developing phlegm include smoking and exposure to air pollution, as these factors can damage the lungs and exacerbate respiratory issues.
Additionally, consuming dairy products and refined sugars can also contribute to phlegm production, as they can cause inflammation and mucus buildup in the body.
What herbs heal phlegm?
The medicinal herbs used to treat phlegm are often employed for their expectorant, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties.
Examples of herbs that exhibit these therapeutic actions include Thyme, which contains the bioactive compound Thymol that helps break down and expel mucus, and Eucalyptus, which contains Eucalyptol, a compound that reduces inflammation and congestion.
Another herb, Ginger, has been traditionally used to treat phlegm due to its anti-inflammatory properties, which can be attributed to the presence of Gingerols and Shogaols.
Additionally, Licorice Root is sometimes used to soothe and calm the respiratory tract, helping to alleviate phlegm-related discomfort.
What preparations treat phlegm?
The herbal preparations used to treat phlegm are often made into teas, infusions, and decoctions that help to thin and clear mucus from the respiratory system.
Throat soothing syrups and cough drops can be made from these herbs to help calm irritated throats and reduce coughing.
Infusions and tinctures can be used as expectorants to loosen and expel phlegm, while others can be used to warm the body and relieve congestion.
Additionally, warm baths and poultices made from these herbs can be applied to the chest and back to help ease respiratory issues associated with phlegm.
The articles in the following links discuss in detail the best herbal preparation used to treat phlegm.