10 best herbal teas for shortness of breath

Among the top herbal teas for alleviating shortness of breath are peppermint, eucalyptus, and licorice root teas.

Peppermint tea contains menthol, which soothes the throat and opens up airways. Eucalyptus tea, with its anti-inflammatory properties, helps reduce swelling in the respiratory tract, making breathing easier.

Lastly, licorice root tea, known for its healing effects on the lungs, aids in clearing phlegm and reducing inflammation, thus alleviating shortness of breath.

1. Peppermint

Peppermint tea provides relief for shortness of breath due to its active components, menthol and methyl salicylate.

These compounds possess natural decongestant and vasodilatory properties. Menthol, in particular, alleviates constriction in the airways, thus enhancing breathing. Furthermore, peppermint tea's ability to soothe inflammation within the respiratory tract contributes to its efficacy.

Finally, the warm temperature of the tea helps loosen phlegm, making it easier to expel.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in peppermint tea that help with shortness of breath.

• Leaves: Contain menthol, which helps relax the smooth muscles in the airways and relieves shortness of breath.
• Flowers: Rich in essential oils, providing anti-inflammatory properties that soothe and open up the respiratory tract.
• Stems: Contain rosmarinic acid, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, reducing airway inflammation and easing shortness of breath.
• Buds: High in menthol, offering strong decongestant properties and immediate relief to the respiratory system.
• Seeds: Packed with antioxidants and rosmarinic acid, which aid in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the airways, thus easing shortness of breath.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in peppermint tea that aid with shortness of breath.

• Menthol: Acts as a natural decongestant, helping to clear the airways and alleviate shortness of breath.
• Rosmarinic acid: Possesses anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract, easing breathing.
• Flavonoids: Act as antioxidants, protecting lung tissues from damage, and reducing inflammation, which in turn improves breathing.
• Tannins: Have astringent properties that help soothe irritated respiratory tissue, and alleviate coughing and shortness of breath.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint tea for shortness of breath.

1. Boil 8 ounces of water to reach a rolling boil, typically taking 3-5 minutes on a stovetop.
2. Add 1 heaping teaspoon of dried peppermint leaves to a tea infuser or empty tea bag.
3. Immerse the tea infuser or tea bag in the boiling water, then steep for 5-7 minutes to allow the peppermint oils to diffuse.
4. Remove the tea infuser or tea bag to prevent over-steeping and bitterness in the tea.
5. Sip the peppermint tea slowly, breathing deeply through your nose to inhale the vapors, promoting relaxation and potential relief of shortness of breath.

2. Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus tea provides relief for shortness of breath due to its natural properties.

The tea contains eucalyptus oil, which is known for its ability to open up airways and improve breathing. The compounds in eucalyptus oil, such as cineole, have been shown to have a therapeutic effect on respiratory conditions. These compounds work by reducing inflammation in the respiratory tract and increasing the production of mucus, helping to clear blocked airways.

As a result, drinking eucalyptus tea can alleviate shortness of breath and promote easier breathing.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in eucalyptus tea that help with shortness of breath.

• Leaves: Contain eucalyptus oil, which helps relax muscles in the airways and relieve shortness of breath.
• Buds: Rich in flavonoids and antioxidants, they can help reduce inflammation in the respiratory system, alleviating shortness of breath.
• Bark: Has tannins that have an astringent effect, which can help soothe irritated tissue in the respiratory tract, making breathing easier.
• Flowers: Contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling in the airways.
• Seeds: High in antioxidants and essential oils that have antispasmodic properties, which can help relax the muscles in the respiratory system and reduce shortness of breath.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in eucalyptus tea that aid with shortness of breath.

• Cineole: A compound with potent anti-inflammatory properties that helps reduce inflammation in the airways, improving breathing.
• Terpinen-4-ol: A compound known for its expectorant effects, helping to loosen and clear mucus from the respiratory tract.
• Alpha-pinene: A compound that acts as a bronchodilator, relaxing muscles in the airways and improving airflow.
• Limonene: A compound with antioxidant properties that helps protect lung tissue from damage, reducing shortness of breath.
• Globulol: A compound that exhibits antispasmodic activity, helping to relieve constriction of the airways and alleviate shortness of breath.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic eucalyptus tea for shortness of breath.

1. Gather 1-2 teaspoons of dried eucalyptus leaves and place them in a tea infuser or loose in a teapot.
2. Boil 8 ounces of water and pour it over the eucalyptus leaves.
3. Allow the tea to steep for 5-10 minutes for optimal extraction of eucalyptus oils.
4. Remove the tea infuser or strain the tea to discard the leaves.
5. Sip the eucalyptus tea slowly, breathing in the steam to help alleviate shortness of breath.

3. Licorice

Licorice tea aids in alleviating shortness of breath due to its active ingredient, glycyrrhizin.

This compound possesses anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation in the airways, promoting easier breathing. Furthermore, licorice tea acts as an expectorant, thinning and loosening mucus, which allows for clearer airways and improved oxygen intake. Additionally, it soothes irritation in the respiratory tract, diminishing coughing fits and lessening the sensation of breathlessness.

Lastly, this herbal tea enhances immunity, protecting the body from respiratory infections that could exacerbate shortness of breath.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in licorice tea that help with shortness of breath.

• Roots: Contain glycyrrhizin, which helps reduce inflammation in airways, making breathing easier.
• Stems: Rich in flavonoids, helping to relax bronchial spasms and alleviating shortness of breath.
• Leaves: High in antioxidants, protecting lung tissues, and supporting better respiratory function.
• Flowers: Contain essential oils and antioxidants, promoting relaxation of airways for easier breathing.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in licorice tea that aid with shortness of breath.

• Glycyrrhizin: Possesses anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling in the airways, making breathing easier.
• Liquiritigenin: Acts as a vasodilator, relaxing and widening the airway muscles, which improves shortness of breath.
• Glabridin: Exhibits antispasmodic effects that help prevent bronchial spasms, alleviating breathing difficulties.
• Liquiritin: Demonstrates expectorant qualities, aiding in the expulsion of mucus from the respiratory tract, which improves airflow.
• Isoangustone A: Provides antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits, protecting lung tissue and reducing inflammation, thereby improving shortness of breath.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice tea for shortness of breath.

1. In a teapot, place one teaspoon of dried licorice root.
2. Over the teapot, pour 8 ounces of boiling water.
3. Allow the tea to steep for 10 minutes.
4. Strain the tea into a cup, discarding the solids.
5. Drink the tea while warm, up to three times daily.

4. Thyme

Thyme tea provides relief for shortness of breath due to its active compounds, primarily thymol and carvacrol.

These components possess expectorant and bronchodilatory properties, which help thin mucus and expand the airways in the respiratory tract. As a result, breathing becomes easier as mucus is cleared and airflow increases. Moreover, thyme tea has anti-inflammatory effects, reducing inflammation in the airways and further alleviating breathing difficulties.

Additionally, it strengthens the immune system, aiding in the prevention and treatment of respiratory infections that can cause shortness of breath.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in thyme tea that help with shortness of breath.

• Leaves: Contain essential oils and antispasmodic compounds that help relax the muscles in the airways and improve breathing.
• Flowers: Rich in flavonoids, reducing inflammation in the respiratory system and alleviating shortness of breath.
• Stems: Contain rosmarinic acid, which exhibits anti-inflammatory and bronchodilator effects, making it easier to breathe.
• Buds: Packed with active compounds, buds can provide a more potent infusion for treating symptoms of shortness of breath.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in thyme tea that aid with shortness of breath.

• Thymol: A natural antispasmodic that helps relax muscles in the trachea, making breathing easier.
• Carvacrol: Possesses anti-inflammatory properties that reduce inflammation in the airways, alleviating shortness of breath.
• Terpinen-4-ol: Exhibits expectorant effects, helping to clear mucus and phlegm from the airways.
• α-Pinene: Demonstrates bronchodilator properties, expanding the airways and increasing airflow to the lungs.
• Linalool: Known for its calming and soothing effects, which can help reduce anxiety and tension associated with shortness of breath.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme tea for shortness of breath.

1. Boil 1 cup of water, then add 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme leaves or 1 teaspoon of dried thyme.
2. Steep the mixture, covered, for 5-10 minutes to extract the beneficial compounds.
3. Strain the tea to remove the thyme leaves, retaining only the liquid.
4. Add honey or lemon for taste, if desired, but avoid milk or other dairy products.
5. Sip the thyme tea slowly, allowing it to soothe and potentially alleviate symptoms of shortness of breath.

5. Oregano

Oregano tea provides relief for shortness of breath due to its anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, derived from its active components like rosmarinic acid and carvacrol.

These compounds help reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract, making it easier to breathe. Moreover, oregano tea works as a natural expectorant, promoting the expulsion of mucus and phlegm from the lungs, thus alleviating congestion and enhancing airflow. Its soothing nature further calms the body, which can help regulate breathing patterns.

Lastly, the antispasmodic effects of oregano tea can relax the airway muscles, preventing spasms that cause shortness of breath.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in oregano tea that help with shortness of breath.

• Leaves: Contain rosmarinic acid and carvacrol, known for their anti-inflammatory and bronchodilator properties, helping to alleviate shortness of breath.
• Flowers: Rich in antioxidants and essential oils, flowers help relax airway muscles and reduce inflammation, aiding in breathing.
• Stems: Contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that have been shown to alleviate respiratory issues, making them useful for shortness of breath.
• Seeds: High in thymol and terpene, seeds help decrease inflammation and act as an expectorant, providing relief from shortness of breath.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in oregano tea that aid with shortness of breath.

• Carvacrol: Exhibits antispasmodic properties that help relieve constriction of the airways, improving breathability.
• Thymol: Possesses expectorant qualities that aid in the expulsion of mucus, alleviating shortness of breath.
• Rosmarinic acid: Demonstrates anti-inflammatory effects that reduce airway inflammation, promoting easier breathing.
• Oleanolic acid: Known for its antitussive properties, helping to suppress coughing and alleviate shortness of breath.
• Beta-caryophyllene: Exhibits bronchodilatory effects that widen the airways, improving oxygen flow and reducing shortness of breath.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic oregano tea for shortness of breath.

1. In a teapot, combine 1 teaspoon of dried oregano and 8 ounces of boiling water.
2. Cover the teapot and let the mixture steep for 5-10 minutes.
3. Strain the tea to remove the oregano leaves.
4. Add honey or lemon to taste, if desired.
5. Drink the tea while warm, up to three times a day.

6. Sage

Sage tea provides relief for shortness of breath due to its expectorant properties, which promote the expulsion of mucus from the respiratory tract.

This herbal tea contains rosmarinic acid, a compound known to reduce inflammation in the lungs, thus alleviating respiratory issues. Furthermore, sage tea's antispasmodic effects soothe the muscles in the trachea, reducing constriction and facilitating easier breathing. Additionally, sage tea's high antioxidant content helps protect lung tissue from oxidative stress, contributing to overall respiratory health.

Lastly, the mild sedative effect of sage tea can help relax an individual, further reducing feelings of anxiety and breathlessness.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in sage tea that help with shortness of breath.

• Leaves: Contain essential oils and polyphenols that help relax airway muscles and reduce inflammation, making breathing easier.
• Flowers: Rich in antioxidants and flavonoids that support respiratory health, alleviating symptoms of shortness of breath.
• Stems: Contain rosmarinic acid and caffeic acid, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe respiratory passages and improve airflow.
• Seeds: Packed with essential oils and nutrients that promote lung function and reduce inflammation, addressing the root causes of shortness of breath.
• Roots: High in antioxidants and healing compounds, which help strengthen respiratory muscles, improving overall breathing capacity and ease.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in sage tea that aid with shortness of breath.

• Rosmarinic acid: Acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, helping to reduce inflammation in the airways and alleviate shortness of breath.
• Carnosic acid: Possesses antioxidant properties, protecting the lungs from oxidative stress and promoting better breathing.
• Camphor: Stimulates blood flow, helping to enhance oxygen supply to the lungs and ease shortness of breath.
• α-Pinene: Acts as a bronchodilator, relaxing the muscles around the airways to improve airflow and reduce shortness of breath.
• 1,8-Cineole: Helps to thin mucus, making it easier to expel and clear airways, thereby alleviating shortness of breath.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage tea for shortness of breath.

1. Gather 8 fresh sage leaves, 1 cup of water, and a tea strainer.
2. Boil the water in a pot for 3-5 minutes.
3. Place sage leaves in the tea strainer and submerge in boiling water.
4. Steep sage leaves in hot water for 5 minutes to release oils.
5. Remove strainer, discard sage leaves, and enjoy your sage tea.

7. Basil

Basil tea aids in alleviating shortness of breath due to its active compounds, such as camphor and eugenol.

These components possess expectorant and soothing qualities, which help clear respiratory passages and reduce inflammation. Additionally, basil tea's warm nature helps thin mucus, making it easier to expel. The herb's high antioxidant content also strengthens the immune system, improving overall lung function.

Lastly, basil tea's calming effects on the mind can help reduce anxiety and stress, indirectly contributing to improved breathing.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in basil tea that help with shortness of breath.

• Leaves: Contain essential oils and antispasmodic properties that help relax muscles in the airways and improve breathing.
• Flowers: Rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, promoting respiratory health and alleviating symptoms of shortness of breath.
• Seeds: Packed with nutrients and antimicrobial properties, helping to clear airways and reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in basil tea that aid with shortness of breath.

• Eugenol: Possesses anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation in the airways, making breathing easier.
• Rosmarinic Acid: Acts as an antioxidant and has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, helping to alleviate shortness of breath.
• Linalool: Has relaxant and anti-spasmodic properties that can help to reduce muscle spasms in the respiratory tract, improving breathing.
• Methyl Chavicol: Has expectorant and antitussive properties that help to clear mucus from the airways, making breathing easier.
• Ocimene: Has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that can help to reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract and protect against viral infections that may cause shortness of breath.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic basil tea for shortness of breath.

1. Boil 1 cup of water, then add 1 tablespoon of fresh basil leaves; let it simmer for 5-7 minutes.
2. Strain the tea to remove basil leaves, leaving only the liquid.
3. Squeeze half a lemon into the basil tea for added vitamin C.
4. Add 1-2 teaspoons of honey to sweeten and soothe the throat.
5. Drink the basil tea while still warm, up to three times a day for shortness of breath relief.

8. Rosemary

Rosemary tea aids shortness of breath due to its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce inflammation in the airways and allow for easier breathing.

Its active compounds, including rosmarinic acid and caffeic acid, possess expectorant qualities that help clear mucus from the respiratory tract. Furthermore, rosemary tea's antioxidant abilities protect lung tissue from oxidative stress, promoting overall respiratory health. Additionally, rosemary tea stimulates circulation, enhancing oxygen and nutrient delivery to lung cells.

Consequently, these combined effects of rosemary tea alleviate symptoms of shortness of breath.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in rosemary tea that help with shortness of breath.

• Leaves: Contain caffeic acid and rosmarinic acid, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate shortness of breath caused by respiratory disorders.
• Flowers: Rich in antioxidants and essential oils, which can help soothe inflammation in the respiratory tract and promote easier breathing.
• Stems: Contain rosmarinic acid, which has been shown to have bronchodilatory effects, helping to widen the airways and improve breathing.
• Seeds: High in antioxidants, which can help protect the lungs from damage and reduce inflammation, making it easier to breathe.
• Buds: Contain high levels of essential oils, which have been shown to have expectorant properties, helping to clear mucus and improve breathing.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in rosemary tea that aid with shortness of breath.

• Caffeic acid: Acts as a bronchodilator, opening up the airways.
• Carnosic acid: Improves lung function and eases shortness of breath.
• Eucalyptol: Helps to break up mucus and clear respiratory passages.
• Rosmanol: Possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, beneficial for respiratory health.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rosemary tea for shortness of breath.

1. Measure 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary or 2 teaspoons of fresh rosemary leaves.
2. Boil 8 ounces of water and add the rosemary to a teapot or infuser.
3. Pour the hot water over the rosemary and let it steep for 5-10 minutes.
4. Strain the tea into a cup, discarding the rosemary leaves.
5. Drink the tea while it's still warm, up to three times a day as needed.

9. Lavender

Lavender tea aids shortness of breath due to its calming properties that reduce anxiety and stress, common triggers of labored breathing.

This herbal tea contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that work synergistically to soothe airways, promoting easier respiration. Furthermore, lavender tea's relaxing effect on smooth muscles lining the airways helps dilate bronchioles, thereby increasing airflow and alleviating symptoms of breathlessness. Additionally, scientific research supports lavender's ability to lower heart rate and blood pressure, consequently diminishing the effort required for breathing.

Ultimately, lavender tea's multifaceted mechanism of action makes it an ideal natural remedy for managing shortness of breath.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in lavender tea that help with shortness of breath.

• Flowers: Contain calming compounds that help soothe the nervous system, promoting relaxation and easing symptoms of shortness of breath.
• Leaves: Rich in soothing compounds, leaves help alleviate inflammation in the respiratory tract, improving breathing.
• Buds: Packed with antispasmodic properties, buds help reduce muscle spasms in the airways, making it easier to breathe.
• Stems: Contain essential oils with anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, helping clear phlegm and easing constriction in the airways.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in lavender tea that aid with shortness of breath.

• Eucalyptol: This compound has expectorant properties that help clear the airways, making it easier to breathe.
• Linalool: This calming agent can help reduce anxiety and relax muscles, alleviating some of the symptoms of shortness of breath.
• Camphor: This antispasmodic substance helps relax smooth muscles in the airways, making it easier to breathe.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lavender tea for shortness of breath.

1. Boil 1 cup of water, reaching a full boil that creates bubbles and steam.
2. Add 1 teaspoon of dried lavender flowers or 1 lavender tea bag to the boiling water.
3. Steep the lavender in the water for 5-7 minutes, allowing it to release its oils and flavors.
4. Strain the tea to remove the lavender flowers, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable beverage.
5. Sip the lavender tea slowly, inhaling the steam and enjoying the soothing aroma to alleviate shortness of breath.

10. Chamomile

Chamomile tea provides relief for shortness of breath due to its documented anti-inflammatory and bronchodilator properties.

These properties stem from the tea's high concentration of antioxidants and volatile oils, particularly chamazulene and flavonoids. These compounds work synergistically to reduce inflammation in the airways, thus alleviating constriction and facilitating easier breathing. Furthermore, chamomile tea's soothing effects on the nervous system can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, which can indirectly alleviate shortness of breath triggered by stress or anxiety.

Additionally, chamomile tea's mild diuretic properties aid in eliminating excess fluid in the lungs, further enhancing respiratory function.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in chamomile tea that help with shortness of breath.

• Flowers: Contain spiroether, a compound that helps relax muscles in the respiratory system, making it easier to breathe.
• Leaves: Rich in flavonoids that have antispasmodic properties, reducing inflammation and constriction in the airways.
• Seeds: Contain high levels of calcium and potassium, which help regulate fluid and electrolyte balance, improving overall respiratory function.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in chamomile tea that aid with shortness of breath.

• Apigenin: A flavonoid with antispasmodic properties that helps relax smooth muscles in the airways, reducing shortness of breath.
• Chamazulene: A chemical compound with anti-inflammatory effects that helps decrease inflammation in the airways, alleviating breathing difficulties.
• Bisabolol: A terpene alcohol known for its calming and soothing effects, which can help relieve anxiety and tension related to shortness of breath.
• Matricin: A precursor to chamazulene, matricin has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, helping to reduce pain and inflammation in the respiratory system.
• Alpha-Bisabolol Oxide A & B: These oxides derived from bisabolol possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, aiding in the clearing of airways and reducing shortness of breath caused by infections.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile tea for shortness of breath.

1. Place 2 teaspoons of dried chamomile flowers in a tea infuser or teapot.
2. Pour 8 ounces of boiling water over the chamomile flowers.
3. Steep the chamomile in hot water for 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove the tea infuser or strain the tea into a cup.
5. Drink the chamomile tea while warm, up to three times a day for shortness of breath.

What is shortness of breath and how can it affect your life?

Shortness of breath, also known as dyspnea, is a condition where individuals experience difficulty in breathing or uncomfortable sensations in their respiratory system.

This condition significantly impacts people's lives as it limits their physical activities, leading to a reduced quality of life. Individuals with shortness of breath often find it challenging to perform routine tasks, such as climbing stairs or walking, which can result in social isolation and depression. Furthermore, it can cause anxiety and fear, negatively affecting mental health.

Overall, shortness of breath is a distressing condition that impacts both the physical and mental well-being of those affected.

What other natural remedies help with shortness of breath?

One of the most common and effective natural remedies for shortness of breath is deep, controlled breathing exercises.

Practices such as pursed-lip breathing and diaphragmatic breathing help to slow down your breathing, increase the amount of oxygen that enters your lungs, and reduce the effort it takes to breathe. Another natural method is staying hydrated, as dehydration can cause shortness of breath. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can keep your body hydrated and improve your overall respiratory health.

Additionally, maintaining a regular exercise routine can strengthen the muscles involved in breathing and improve your body's ability to use oxygen efficiently, thereby reducing shortness of breath.