By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Asthma
Herbal tinctures for asthma are concentrated liquid extracts of plants, herbs, and botanicals that can help alleviate symptoms of asthma.
These tinctures work by calming the airways, reducing inflammation, and relaxing the muscles in the lungs. Examples of herbal tinctures that can help with asthma include peppermint, thyme, and ginger, which have natural anti-inflammatory properties.
By using these tinctures, people with asthma may experience improved lung function, reduced wheezing and coughing, and a better quality of life.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures 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 tinctures to use for asthma?
- What ailments similar to asthma are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Echinacea angustifolia
Kansas coneflower tinctures helps with asthma because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.
The herb, also known as Echinacea pallida, has been traditionally used to alleviate respiratory issues. Research suggests that its active compounds, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, can help reduce inflammation in the airways, making it easier for asthmatics to breathe. Additionally, Kansas coneflower's antimicrobial properties may also help combat infections that can exacerbate asthma symptoms.
By reducing inflammation and fighting off infections, Kansas coneflower tinctures can provide natural relief from asthma attacks.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia tinctures that help with asthma.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate asthma symptoms by reducing inflammation in the airways.
- Alkylamides: Alkylamides found in Echinacea angustifolia have been found to exhibit bronchodilatory effects, which can help relax airway muscles and improve breathing in individuals with asthma.
- Caffeic acid: Caffeic acid, a phenolic compound present in Echinacea angustifolia, has been reported to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help mitigate oxidative stress and inflammation associated with asthma.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make tinctures for asthma.
- Roots: The roots of Echinacea angustifolia are commonly used due to their high concentration of compounds that are believed to help alleviate asthma symptoms.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes, the underground stems that store nutrients, are used for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help in managing asthma.
- Leaves: Echinacea angustifolia leaves are utilized for their ability to reduce inflammation and improve respiratory function, making them beneficial for asthma treatment.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for asthma.
- Harvest 1 part of dried root of echinacea angustifolia in the fall when the plants are dormant.
- Cut the harvested root into small pieces and measure out a 1:5 ratio of plant material to solvent.
- Combine the chopped root with 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar filling it to the top.
- Allow the mixture to steep in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the jar daily.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
2. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice tinctures helps with asthma because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce airway constriction and ease breathing.
The tannins present in licorice root have been shown to inhibit the production of leukotrienes, a type of inflammatory molecule that contributes to asthma symptoms. Additionally, licorice tinctures may also help to relax the airway muscles, allowing for easier breathing and reduced wheezing.
This natural remedy can be especially helpful for those who experience frequent or severe asthma attacks.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures that help with asthma.
- Glycyrrhizin: A triterpenoid saponin, glycyrrhizin has anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce airway inflammation and alleviate symptoms of asthma.
- Isoflavans: Specifically, glyasperin D and glyasperin E, are isoflavans with potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which contribute to reducing asthma symptoms by suppressing inflammation in the airways.
- Licoflavonoids: Licoflavonoids, such as licoflavonol and licodione, have shown bronchodilatory effects and antioxidant properties, helping to relax airway muscles and reduce oxidative stress associated with asthma.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make tinctures for asthma.
- Roots: The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make tinctures for asthma because they contain a high concentration of glycyrrhizin, which has anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate asthma symptoms.
- Barks: The barks of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make tinctures for asthma because they contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that have anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, helping to reduce inflammation and promote mucus clearance.
- Leaves: The leaves of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make tinctures for asthma because they contain saponins and terpenoids that have anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory effects, helping to relax airway muscles and reduce inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for asthma.
- Harvest 50-100 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots and clean them thoroughly to remove any debris.
- Chop the roots into small pieces and combine them with 500-750 ml of 80-proof vodka in a glass jar.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 4-6 weeks to allow for extraction and infusion.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another glass container and discard the solids.
- Transfer the liquid to smaller glass bottles and store them in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.
3. Asparagus officinalis
Asparagus tinctures helps with asthma because of its rich concentration of antioxidants, flavonoids, and saponins.
These bioactive compounds work together to reduce inflammation in the airways, relax bronchial muscles, and thin mucus, making it easier to expel. The tincture's anti-inflammatory properties also help to reduce the frequency and severity of asthma attacks, while its expectorant properties ease congestion and promote a smoother breathing process.
Regular use of asparagus tincture may provide long-term relief for individuals suffering from chronic asthma symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Asparagus officinalis tinctures that help with asthma.
- Saponins: Saponins help with asthma by reducing inflammation in the airways, making it easier to breathe.
- Quercetin: Quercetin helps with asthma by acting as an anti-inflammatory agent and a bronchodilator, which helps to relax and widen the airways.
- Asparagusic acid: Asparagusic acid helps with asthma by acting as an expectorant, helping to remove mucus from the lungs and airways, making it easier to breathe.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of asparagus used to make tinctures for asthma.
- Roots: They are the primary part used for tinctures due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, including saponins and flavonoids, which help alleviate asthma symptoms.
- Leaves: They are used to make tinctures for asthma relief as they contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce inflammation and improve respiratory function.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic asparagus for asthma.
- Harvest 1 pound of fresh asparagus officinalis spears when they are in full maturity stage.
- Wash the harvested spears under cold running water to remove any dirt and debris.
- Chop the washed spears into small pieces using a sharp knife or food processor to increase surface area.
- Combine the chopped spears with 80 proof vodka in a 1:5 ratio by weight in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks, shaking the jar daily to facilitate extraction.
4. Piper methysticum
Kava tinctures helps with asthma because of its bronchodilatory properties, which help to relax the airways and make it easier to breathe.
The herb's active compounds, such as kavalactones, have a calming effect on the lungs, reducing inflammation and constriction. This natural relaxation also helps to reduce stress and anxiety, common triggers for asthma attacks.
By promoting relaxed breathing patterns and soothing the lungs, herbal kava tinctures offer a holistic approach to managing asthma symptoms and improving overall respiratory health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Piper methysticum tinctures that help with asthma.
- Kavalactones: Kavalactones, particularly kavain and dihydrokavain, have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation in the airways, making it easier to breathe for asthma patients.
- Kaempferol: Kaempferol, a flavonoid compound, exhibits anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory effects, which help to relax the airway muscles and improve lung function in individuals with asthma.
- Quercetin: Quercetin, a type of flavonoid, has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation in the airways, as well as bronchodilatory effects that help improve lung function and alleviate asthma symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kava used to make tinctures for asthma.
- Roots: Rich in kavalactones, compounds believed to have a sedative and anxiolytic effect, which may help alleviate asthma symptoms related to stress and anxiety.
- Leaves: Similar to the roots, the leaves of Piper methysticum contain kavalactones, which could contribute to the tincture's potential benefits for asthma patients.
- Stems: While not as extensively studied as the roots or leaves, the stems of Piper methysticum also contain kavalactones, which might contribute to the tincture's potential effects on anxiety and stress related to asthma.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kava for asthma.
- Harvest 250g of fresh piper methysticum leaves and roots with scissors or a knife during peak plant maturity.
- Dry the harvested plant material in a low-temperature oven at 35°c for 24 hours to preserve potency.
- Combine 250g of dried piper methysticum with 750ml of 95% ethanol in a large glass container.
- Steep the mixture for 2-3 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking to extract active compounds.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle for storage and use.
5. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion tinctures helps with asthma because it contains compounds that have natural anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the airways.
The bitter compounds present in dandelion root also stimulate the digestive system and improve lung function, allowing for easier breathing. Additionally, dandelion's expectorant properties help loosen and clear out mucus from the lungs, making it easier to breathe.
By addressing these underlying issues, herbal dandelion tinctures can provide natural relief for asthma sufferers.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale tinctures that help with asthma.
- Luteolin: Luteolin is a flavonoid that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the airways, alleviating asthma symptoms.
- Taraxasterol: Taraxasterol is a triterpenoid saponin that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory effects, helping to relax airway muscles and improve breathing.
- Phloroglucinol derivatives: Phloroglucinol derivatives, such as taraxasterol and inulin, have been found to have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help regulate the immune response and reduce inflammation in the airways.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make tinctures for asthma.
- Roots: They contain saponins and flavonoids, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate asthma symptoms.
- Leaves: They contain sesquiterpenes, particularly taraxasterol, which has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory effects that may help manage asthma.
- Flowers: They contain flavonoids, particularly quercetin, which is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress associated with asthma.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for asthma.
- Gather 1 part of fresh taraxacum officinale roots and flowers weighing 100 grams for the herbal mixture.
- Chop the gathered plant material into small pieces and place it in a clean glass jar.
- Fill the jar with 300 milliliters of vodka at 70 proof and store it in a cool dark place.
- Allow the mixture to infuse for 2 to 3 weeks shaking the jar every 2 days.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into another clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
6. Ephedra sinica
Ma huang tinctures helps with asthma because it is a natural bronchodilator that opens up airways and reduces inflammation in the lungs.
The active compound ephedrine works similarly to prescription medications, relaxing constricted airway muscles and allowing easier breathing. Additionally, ma huang has been shown to reduce the production of chemical mediators that contribute to asthma symptoms, such as histamine and bradykinin.
By addressing both constriction and inflammation, ma huang tinctures can provide relief from wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath associated with asthma.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ephedra sinica tinctures that help with asthma.
- Ephedrine: Ephedrine, an alkaloid, helps with asthma by relaxing bronchial muscles, reducing inflammation, and dilating airways to improve breathing.
- Sinoacutine: Sinoacutine, a phenolic compound, helps with asthma by inhibiting the release of histamine and other chemical mediators that contribute to asthma symptoms, thus reducing inflammation and bronchoconstriction.
- Ephedradine: Ephedradine, an alkaloid, helps with asthma by acting as a bronchodilator, which relaxes bronchial muscles and improves airflow to the lungs.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ma huang used to make tinctures for asthma.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are the most commonly used part in making tinctures for asthma due to their high content of ephedrine alkaloids, which help relax bronchial muscles and alleviate asthma symptoms.
- Stems: The stems of Ephedra sinica contain ephedrine and pseudoephedrine, which are also used in tinctures to help open air passages and relieve asthma attacks.
- Seeds: The seeds of Ephedra sinica are another commonly used part in making tinctures for asthma due to their ephedrine content, which helps to reduce inflammation and improve breathing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ma huang for asthma.
- Harvest ephedra sinica roots and stems when they are fresh and dry them immediately to preserve their potency.
- Chop 100g of dried ephedra sinica into small pieces to ensure efficient extraction in the next step.
- Combine the chopped ephedra sinica with 500ml of 70% ethanol in a clean glass container and steep for 2 weeks.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean container and discard the solids.
- Transfer the resulting tincture to dark glass bottles and store them in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.
7. Griffonia simplicifolia
African yams tinctures helps with asthma because they contain a unique compound called diosgenin, which has been shown to relax airway smooth muscle and reduce inflammation in the lungs.
This natural anti-inflammatory effect can help alleviate symptoms of asthma, such as wheezing and shortness of breath.
Additionally, African yam extract has been found to enhance lung function by increasing mucus clearance and reducing bronchial hyperresponsiveness, making it a valuable natural remedy for managing asthma symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Griffonia simplicifolia tinctures that help with asthma.
- 5-hydroxytryptophan: Helps with asthma indirectly by reducing anxiety and stress, which can contribute to asthma symptoms.
- Flavonoids: Have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the airways and alleviate asthma symptoms.
- Alkaloids: Have bronchodilatory effects, which can help relax the airway muscles and improve breathing in individuals with asthma.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of african yams used to make tinctures for asthma.
- Seeds: They are a primary source of 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), which may help reduce inflammation and alleviate asthma symptoms.
- Roots: The roots of Griffonia simplicifolia may be used to create tinctures that help reduce inflammation and relax smooth muscles in the airways.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic african yams for asthma.
- Harvest 1 pound of fresh griffonia simplicifolia roots and clean them thoroughly with cold running water.
- Chop the roots into small pieces to increase their surface area for infusion and ensure efficient extraction.
- Combine 1 pound of chopped roots with 5 cups of 80 proof vodka or grain alcohol in a clean glass container.
- Seal the container and steep it for 2 weeks in a cool dark place allowing for optimal extraction time.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container and discard the solids.
8. Foeniculum vulgare
Fennel tinctures helps with asthma because it has a natural ability to relax the airway muscles, making it easier for individuals to breathe.
The expectorant properties of fennel help to loosen and remove mucus from the lungs, reducing inflammation and congestion. Additionally, fennel's anti-inflammatory compounds help to reduce airway constriction, allowing for increased airflow and improved oxygen intake.
By addressing these underlying issues, fennel tinctures can provide relief from asthma symptoms and improve overall respiratory health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare tinctures that help with asthma.
- Fenchone: Fenchone, a terpene, helps with asthma by exhibiting bronchodilatory properties, which aid in relaxing bronchial muscles and improving airflow.
- Anethole: Anethone, a phenolic ether, helps with asthma by its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the airways, thereby alleviating symptoms.
- Fenchyl acetate: Fenchyl acetate, a terpene ester, helps with asthma by its bronchodilatory and anti-inflammatory effects, which contribute to improved lung function and reduced airway constriction.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make tinctures for asthma.
- Seeds: They are the most commonly used part due to their high content of volatile oils, particularly anethole, which is known for its bronchodilatory and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: The leaves are also used for their antispasmodic and expectorant properties, which help to relieve asthma symptoms by relaxing bronchial muscles and promoting mucus clearance.
- Stems: The stems of Foeniculum vulgare contain a significant amount of essential oils, including anethole, which is believed to have a calming effect on the bronchial muscles and help alleviate asthma symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for asthma.
- Harvest 1 part of foeniculum vulgare roots and 2 parts of leaves in late summer or early fall.
- Clean and chop the harvested foeniculum vulgare roots and leaves into small pieces using sharp knife.
- Combine the chopped foeniculum vulgare with 40% ethanol in a jar for 2 to 6 weeks steeping.
- Strain the liquid mixture using cheesecloth or a coffee filter after the steeping period is complete.
- Transfer the clear tincture to dark glass bottles and store in a cool dry place forever.
9. Cinchona officinalis
Jesuit's bark tinctures helps with asthma because it contains compounds that have a bronchodilatory effect, allowing for easier breathing.
The tincture's active ingredients, including berberine and hydrastis, work to relax constricted airways, reducing inflammation and opening up the air passages. This natural remedy can help alleviate symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath, providing relief from asthma attacks.
By targeting the underlying causes of bronchial constriction, Jesuit's bark tinctures can offer a safe and effective complementary treatment for managing asthma symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cinchona officinalis tinctures that help with asthma.
- Quinine: Quinine, an alkaloid found in Cinchona officinalis, has anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory properties, which can help alleviate asthma symptoms by relaxing airway muscles and reducing inflammation.
- Quinovic acid glycosides: Quinovic acid glycosides, a type of phenolic glycoside in Cinchona officinalis, possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the airways, contributing to asthma management.
- Quinic acid: Quinic acid, a phenolic compound in Cinchona officinalis, has been reported to possess bronchodilatory and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help ease asthma symptoms by relaxing airway muscles and reducing inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of jesuit's bark used to make tinctures for asthma.
- Leaves: The leaves of Cinchona officinalis are commonly used to make tinctures for asthma because they contain quinine, a natural anti-inflammatory compound.
- Barks: The barks of Cinchona officinalis are used to make tinctures for asthma as they are rich in alkaloids, including quinine and quinidine, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Fruits: The fruits of Cinchona officinalis are sometimes used to make tinctures for asthma as they contain compounds with anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory effects.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic jesuit's bark for asthma.
- Harvest fresh cinchona officinalis bark in late summer or early fall when the plant is mature and dried properly.
- Chop 1 part of the cinchona officinalis bark into small pieces and combine with 2 parts of a solvent like vodka or glycerin.
- Steep the mixture for 2-3 weeks in a dark glass container with a lid allowing the solvent to infuse.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter to separate the plant material from the solvent.
- Bottle the tincture in dark glass bottles and store it in a cool dry place away from light and heat.
10. Verbascum thapsus
Mullein tinctures helps with asthma because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe and relax the airways.
The tannins present in mullein extract have been shown to reduce inflammation and spasms in the lungs, making it easier for asthmatic individuals to breathe. Additionally, mullein's expectorant properties help to loosen and clear out mucus, further alleviating breathing difficulties.
By promoting relaxation and reducing inflammation, mullein tinctures provide a natural remedy for asthma sufferers to manage their symptoms and improve lung function.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Verbascum thapsus tinctures that help with asthma.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help with asthma by inhibiting the release of histamine, a key mediator of allergic reactions, and thereby reducing inflammation in the airways.
- Verbascoside: Verbascoside, a phenylethanoid glycoside, exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate asthma symptoms by reducing inflammation and edema in the respiratory tract.
- Alkaloids: Alkaloids present in Verbascum thapsus help with asthma by exhibiting bronchodilatory effects, which can help relax airway muscles and improve airflow, making breathing easier.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of mullein used to make tinctures for asthma.
- Leaves: They are used to make tinctures for asthma due to their mucilaginous properties, which help to soothe and calm the respiratory system.
- Roots: The roots of Verbascum thapsus are used to make tinctures for asthma because they contain compounds that exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce inflammation in the airways.
- Flowers: The flowers of Verbascum thapsus are used to make tinctures for asthma due to their expectorant properties, which can help to loosen and clear mucus from the lungs, making breathing easier.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic mullein for asthma.
- Gather 250 grams of dried verbascum thapsus flowers and place them in a clean glass jar.
- Combine the dried verbascum thapsus flowers with 500 milliliters of 40% ethanol in the glass jar.
- Seal the glass jar and let it steep in a cool dark place for 2 weeks.
- Strain the liquid from the jar through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass container.
- Transfer the tincture to a dark glass bottle and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 years.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for asthma?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with asthma is a blend of Lobelia (Lobelia inflata), Mullein (Verbascum thapsus), and Thyme (Thymus vulgaris).
Lobelia is known for its expectorant properties, helping to loosen and clear mucus from the lungs. Mullein soothes and calms the respiratory tract, while Thyme's antibacterial properties aid in reducing inflammation.
Together, these tinctures can help alleviate asthma symptoms, promote relaxation, and support overall lung health.
What ailments similar to asthma are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to asthma/tinctures.html">asthma/tinctures.html">asthma that are treated with herbal tinctures are bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and chronic coughs.
Herbal tinctures containing herbs like eucalyptus, thyme, and marshmallow root help soothe and calm the airways, reducing inflammation and congestion.
Tinctures made from herbs like mullein, licorice root, and slippery elm also help to relax and protect the lungs, making it easier to breathe.