By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 04, 2024
10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Asthma
Herbal decoctions for asthma are a natural and effective way to alleviate symptoms of asthma, such as wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath.
These decoctions are made by steeping herbs in hot water, releasing their medicinal properties into the liquid. Examples of herbs that help with asthma include thyme, eucalyptus, and marshmallow root. Drinking these decoctions can help to relax airway muscles, reduce inflammation, and thin mucus, making it easier to breathe.
This natural remedy has improved lives by providing relief from constant medication and hospital visits, allowing individuals with asthma to live a more active and comfortable lifestyle.
The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for asthma, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Echinacea angustifolia
- 2. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 3. Asparagus officinalis
- 4. Piper methysticum
- 5. Taraxacum officinale
- 6. Ephedra sinica
- 7. Griffonia simplicifolia
- 8. Foeniculum vulgare
- 9. Cinchona officinalis
- 10. Verbascum thapsus
- What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for asthma?
- What ailments similar to asthma are treated with herbal decoctions?
1. Echinacea angustifolia
Kansas coneflower decoctions helps with asthma because they contain potent anti-inflammatory compounds such as triterpenoids and flavonoids.
These bioactive molecules have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are key players in the development of asthma symptoms. Additionally, the decoctions' expectorant properties help to loosen and clear mucus from the lungs, making it easier to breathe.
As a result, regular consumption of Kansas coneflower decoctions may help to alleviate asthma symptoms and improve respiratory function.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia decoctions that help with asthma.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help with asthma by exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce airway inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with asthma.
- Alkylamides: Alkylamides in Echinacea angustifolia decoctions may help with asthma by modulating the immune system and reducing inflammation, which can help in managing asthma symptoms.
- Alkaloids: The alkaloids in Echinacea angustifolia decoctions may help with asthma by displaying antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help protect the airways from oxidative damage and reduce inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make decoctions for asthma.
- Roots: They are used due to their high concentration of alkaloids and glycosides, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: They are used because they are rich in flavonoids and other compounds that may help alleviate asthma symptoms.
- Flowers: They are used due to their content of essential oils and other bioactive compounds that may help reduce inflammation and improve respiratory function.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for asthma.
- Harvest fresh echinacea angustifolia roots in late summer or early fall when they are fully ripe.
- Clean the roots thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Chop 2-4 grams of the cleaned roots into small pieces to release their medicinal properties.
- Simmer the chopped roots in 1 liter of water for 5-7 minutes to create a decoction.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove solids.
2. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice decoctions helps with asthma because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties.
The plant's flavonoids, isoflavones, and triterpenoid saponins have been shown to reduce inflammation in the airways, making it easier for people with asthma to breathe. Additionally, licorice root has a bronchodilatory effect, which helps to relax the airway muscles and increase airflow.
By reducing swelling and opening up the airways, herbal licorice decoctions provide natural relief from asthma symptoms, allowing individuals to manage their condition more effectively.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra decoctions that help with asthma.
- Saponins: Saponins in Glycyrrhiza glabra decoctions have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce inflammation in the airways and alleviate asthma symptoms.
- Glycyrrhizin: Glycyrrhizin has anti-inflammatory and mucolytic properties, making it effective in reducing inflammation and mucus production in the airways, thereby improving breathing and reducing asthma symptoms.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Glycyrrhiza glabra decoctions have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help protect the airways from oxidative stress and inflammation, ultimately reducing asthma symptoms and improving lung function.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make decoctions for asthma.
- Roots: They are used due to their high content of glycyrrhizin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate asthma symptoms.
- Leaves: They are used due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and open airways in asthma patients.
- Barks: They are used due to their rich content of glycosides and saponins, which can help reduce inflammation and relax bronchial muscles to relieve asthma symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for asthma.
- Harvest 30-60 grams of fresh or dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots in late summer or early fall season.
- Chop the roots into small pieces to increase their surface area for extraction.
- Combine the chopped roots with 1 liter of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and let the mixture steep for 10-15 minutes or longer.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a separate container.
3. Asparagus officinalis
Asparagus decoctions helps with asthma because it contains antioxidants, flavonoids, and saponins that have anti-inflammatory properties.
These compounds help to reduce inflammation in the airways, making it easier for people with asthma to breathe. The decoction also increases nitric oxide production, which relaxes airway muscles and improves lung function.
Additionally, asparagus has been shown to reduce bronchial spasms and improve overall respiratory health, providing relief from asthma symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Asparagus officinalis decoctions that help with asthma.
- Saponins: Saponins in Asparagus officinalis have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation in the airways, making it easier to breathe for individuals with asthma.
- Quercetin: Quercetin, a flavonoid in Asparagus officinalis, acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, which helps alleviate asthma symptoms by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the airways.
- Asparagine: Asparagine, an amino acid found in Asparagus officinalis, has bronchodilatory properties that help relax the airway muscles, making it easier to breathe for individuals with asthma.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of asparagus used to make decoctions for asthma.
- Roots: They contain asparagine, a compound with expectorant properties that help relieve asthma symptoms.
- Leaves: They are used due to their high content of saponins, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate asthma attacks.
- Stems: They are used for their flavonoid content, which can help relax airway muscles and reduce inflammation in asthma sufferers.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic asparagus for asthma.
- Harvest 1 to 2 bunches of fresh asparagus officinalis early in the morning when the dew is still present.
- Cut the asparagus into 1-inch pieces and wash them thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
- Combine 20 grams of the asparagus pieces with 500 milliliters of boiling water in a saucepan.
- Simmer the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes then strain it through a cheesecloth or fine mesh.
- Store the cooled decoction in a glass container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
4. Piper methysticum
Kava decoctions helps with asthma because of its natural ability to relax the airways, reducing inflammation and constriction.
The flavonoids present in kava have been shown to inhibit the release of histamine and other chemicals that can exacerbate asthmatic symptoms. Additionally, kava's anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce swelling in the lungs and bronchi, making it easier for air to flow freely.
This natural approach can provide relief from asthma attacks and improve overall respiratory health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Piper methysticum decoctions that help with asthma.
- Alkaloids: These compounds have been found to possess anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the airways associated with asthma.
- Polyphenols: Polyphenols in Piper methysticum have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help alleviate symptoms of asthma by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the lungs.
- Terpenes: Certain terpenes present in Piper methysticum, such as sesquiterpenes, have been found to exhibit bronchodilatory properties, helping to relax airway muscles and improve breathing in individuals with asthma.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kava used to make decoctions for asthma.
- Roots: They are the primary part used for their medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects.
- Rhyzomes: They contain active compounds that help in reducing inflammation and relieving asthma symptoms.
- Leaves: They are used for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help in soothing the respiratory tract and alleviating asthma symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kava for asthma.
- Gather 1-2 cups of dried piper methysticum root and 4 cups of water for decoction.
- Cut the dried piper methysticum root into small pieces to increase surface area for extraction.
- Combine the chopped piper methysticum root and water in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce heat to simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve to remove the root particles.
5. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion decoctions helps with asthma because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and relax bronchial passages, reducing swelling and constriction.
The decoction's expectorant properties help loosen and clear out mucus, making it easier to breathe and expel phlegm. Additionally, dandelion's natural antispasmodic effects calm down the airways, preventing spasms and wheezing that often accompany asthma attacks.
By addressing these underlying issues, dandelion decoctions provide effective relief from asthma symptoms, promoting improved lung function and overall respiratory health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale decoctions that help with asthma.
- Polysaccharides: These complex carbohydrates help to reduce inflammation in the airways and improve lung function, making it easier to breathe.
- Taraxasterol: A triterpene compound, taraxasterol has anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory properties, helping to relax the airway muscles and improve airflow.
- Saponins: These glycosidic compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the airways, thereby alleviating asthma symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make decoctions for asthma.
- Roots: The roots are used for decoctions to treat asthma due to their high saponin content, which helps to reduce inflammation and relax airway muscles.
- Leaves: The leaves are used for decoctions to treat asthma due to their diuretic properties, which help to reduce water retention and alleviate respiratory symptoms.
- Seeds: The seeds are used for decoctions to treat asthma due to their expectorant properties, which help to loosen and clear mucus from the airways.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for asthma.
- Gather 10 to 20 fresh taraxacum officinale leaves and roots for the herbal decoction preparation.
- Chop the gathered taraxacum officinale leaves and roots into small pieces to increase their surface area.
- Combine 500 milliliters of boiling water with 20 grams of chopped taraxacum officinale in a heat-resistant container.
- Steep the taraxacum officinale mixture for 10 to 15 minutes in a warm environment.
- Strain the taraxacum officinale decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
6. Ephedra sinica
Ma huang decoctions helps with asthma because it has been traditionally used to relieve bronchial spasms, reduce inflammation, and open airways.
The active compound ephedrine in ma huang acts as a natural bronchodilator, allowing for easier breathing. Additionally, the decoction's expectorant properties help to loosen and clear out mucus from the lungs, further alleviating symptoms.
By promoting relaxation and reducing inflammation, ma huang decoctions provide comprehensive relief for individuals suffering from asthma.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ephedra sinica decoctions that help with asthma.
- Ephedrine: Acts as a bronchodilator, helping to relax airway muscles and improve breathing in asthma patients.
- Norephedrine: Exhibits bronchodilatory and anti-inflammatory properties, reducing airway constriction and inflammation associated with asthma.
- Caffeine: Functions as a bronchodilator and vasodilator, increasing blood flow to the airways and improving lung function in asthma patients.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ma huang used to make decoctions for asthma.
- Stems: They are rich in ephedrine, a key alkaloid that helps relax bronchial muscles and relieve asthma symptoms.
- Roots: They contain various alkaloids, including ephedrine, which helps to dilate airways and reduce inflammation in the lungs.
- Seeds: They also contain ephedrine and other alkaloids, which contribute to their bronchodilatory and anti-inflammatory effects in treating asthma.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ma huang for asthma.
- Gather 6-8g of ephedra sinica stems and branches from a trusted supplier or forage carefully in wild.
- Grind the ephedra sinica into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 2-3 minutes.
- Combine the powdered ephedra sinica with 300ml of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the decoction steep for 30-40 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
7. Griffonia simplicifolia
African yams decoctions helps with asthma because they contain bioactive compounds that exhibit anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory properties.
These compounds, such as diosgenin and saponins, help to reduce inflammation in the airways, making it easier to breathe. Additionally, the decoctions' antioxidant activity helps to combat oxidative stress, a common contributor to asthma symptoms.
By reducing inflammation and increasing airflow, African yams decoctions may provide relief from asthma symptoms, allowing individuals to better manage their condition and improve their overall quality of life.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Griffonia simplicifolia decoctions that help with asthma.
- 5-hydroxytryptophan: This amino acid helps with asthma by reducing inflammation and modulating the body's response to allergens, thereby alleviating symptoms.
- Tryptamine: As a precursor to serotonin, tryptamine helps with asthma by regulating the body's airway constriction and relaxation, reducing inflammation, and promoting smooth muscle relaxation.
- Tryptophan: The precursor to 5-HTP, tryptophan also plays a role in reducing inflammation and modulating the body's immune response, which can help alleviate asthma symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of african yams used to make decoctions for asthma.
- Seeds: Used for their potential anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate asthma symptoms.
- Barks: Employed for their purported ability to reduce inflammation and open up airways, making breathing easier.
- Roots: Utilized due to their supposed bronchodilatory effects, helping to relax muscles in the airways and improve lung function.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic african yams for asthma.
- Harvest 1-2 pounds of griffonia simplicifolia roots and cut them into small pieces to facilitate drying.
- Dry the cut roots in a warm place with good air circulation for 7-10 days.
- Crush 1-2 teaspoons of dried griffonia simplicifolia roots into a fine powder for decoction.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of the powdered roots in 1 cup of boiling water for 10-15 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup and discard the solids immediately.
8. Foeniculum vulgare
Fennel decoctions helps with asthma because of its natural expectorant properties, which help to loosen and clear mucus from the airways.
The herb's anti-inflammatory compounds also reduce inflammation in the lungs, making it easier for asthmatics to breathe. Additionally, fennel's bronchodilating effects help to dilate the airway passages, allowing more airflow into the lungs.
As a result, fennel decoctions can provide relief from asthma symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare decoctions that help with asthma.
- Fenchone: Fenchone, a monoterpenic ketone, helps with asthma by reducing inflammation in the airways and relaxing the bronchial muscles, making breathing easier.
- Anethole: Anethone, a phenolic compound, helps with asthma by acting as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the airways.
- Eugenol: Eugenol, a phenolic compound, helps with asthma by inhibiting the release of histamine from mast cells, a key player in asthma symptoms, and reducing inflammation in the airways.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make decoctions for asthma.
- Seeds: The seeds are used to make decoctions for asthma due to their expectorant properties, helping to relieve congestion and coughs.
- Leaves: The leaves are used for their carminative and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate asthma symptoms such as bronchitis and coughs.
- Roots: The roots are used due to their antispasmodic properties, which can help relax bronchial muscles and reduce asthma symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for asthma.
- Harvest 10 to 20 grams of fresh foeniculum vulgare root or 5 to 10 grams of dried root.
- Chop the harvested root into small pieces and rinse with cold water to remove impurities.
- Combine the chopped root with 250 milliliters of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to a simmer for 5 to 10 minutes or until the liquid is reduced by half.
- Strain the decoction through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container discard the solids.
9. Cinchona officinalis
Jesuit's bark decoctions helps with asthma because of its unique composition, rich in alkaloids and flavonoids that work synergistically to relax airway smooth muscle spasms, reducing inflammation and bronchial constriction.
The decoction's anti-inflammatory properties also help to soothe irritated respiratory passages, allowing for easier breathing and improved lung function.
Additionally, the antioxidant activity present in Jesuit's bark decoctions helps to protect against oxidative stress and cellular damage, further supporting its potential as a natural adjunct therapy for managing asthma symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cinchona officinalis decoctions that help with asthma.
- Quinine: Quinine helps with asthma by acting as a bronchodilator, relaxing airway muscles and improving breathing.
- Quinidine: Quinidine helps with asthma by inhibiting histamine release from mast cells, thereby reducing inflammation and airway constriction.
- Cinchonine: Cinchonine helps with asthma by exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties, reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and mediators that contribute to airway inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of jesuit's bark used to make decoctions for asthma.
- Leaves: They contain the highest concentration of quinine, a key compound that helps alleviate asthma symptoms.
- Barks: The bark of Cinchona officinalis contains a higher concentration of alkaloids, including quinine and quinidine, which help in treating asthma.
- Roots: They are used in decoctions for their mild anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties to help manage asthma symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic jesuit's bark for asthma.
- Harvest cinchona officinalis bark in dry season when the bark is thick and the alkaloid content is high.
- Clean and dry the cinchona officinalis bark thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
- Crush 20-30 grams of dried cinchona officinalis bark into small pieces using a mortar and pestle.
- Boil one liter of water and add the crushed cinchona officinalis bark for 10-15 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain the final liquid.
10. Verbascum thapsus
Mullein decoctions helps with asthma because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which alleviate respiratory congestion and ease breathing.
The saponins and flavonoids present in mullein work together to reduce bronchial spasms, swelling, and mucus production, allowing for easier airflow and improved lung function. Additionally, mullein's expectorant properties help loosen and clear out mucus, further reducing asthma symptoms.
By addressing the root causes of inflammation and congestion, mullein decoctions provide a natural solution for managing asthma attacks and improving overall respiratory health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Verbascum thapsus decoctions that help with asthma.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help reduce inflammation and inhibit the release of histamine, a key contributor to asthma symptoms, thereby providing relief.
- Terpenes: Verbascoside has anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory properties, which help relax airway muscles and improve breathing in asthma patients.
- Flavonoids: Quercetin is a potent antioxidant that reduces inflammation and oxidative stress in the airways, contributing to its anti-asthmatic effects.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of mullein used to make decoctions for asthma.
- Leaves: They are used to make decoctions for asthma due to their expectorant properties, which help relieve respiratory issues.
- Roots: They are used for their anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which can help ease asthma symptoms.
- Flowers: They are used to make decoctions for asthma due to their sedative and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help calm respiratory issues.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic mullein for asthma.
- Harvest the flowers and leaves of the plant in early morning to get the maximum quantity of essential oils.
- Clean the harvested plant material by rinsing it with water to remove dirt and debris thoroughly.
- Dry the cleaned plant material in a warm place or using a food dehydrator at a low temperature for 12 hours.
- Grind the dried plant material into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder.
- Steep one teaspoon of the ground plant material in one cup of boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes to make a decoction.
What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for asthma?
The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with asthma is a blend of Licorice root, Thyme, and Echinacea.
Licorice root helps to soothe and calm the airways, while Thyme's expectorant properties aid in removing mucus and phlegm. Echinacea's anti-inflammatory properties further reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of asthma. Additionally, Ginger and Slippery Elm can be added to enhance the decoction's anti-inflammatory and soothing effects, promoting relaxation and easier breathing.
This herbal combination can be made into a tea or decoction for relief.
What ailments similar to asthma are treated with herbal decoctions?
Ailments similar to asthma/decoctions.html">asthma/decoctions.html">asthma that are treated with herbal decoctions are chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
These conditions share symptoms like wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.
Herbal decoctions, such as those made from Echinacea, Ginkgo biloba, and Turmeric, may help alleviate these symptoms by reducing inflammation, relaxing bronchial muscles, and improving lung function.