10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Shortness Of Breath

Herbal tinctures for shortness of breath are concentrated liquid extracts made from plants that have been traditionally used to alleviate respiratory issues.

These tinctures work by soothing and relaxing the airways, reducing inflammation and congestion, and improving oxygen flow to the lungs. Examples include Lobelia (Lobelia inflata) and Thyme (Thymus vulgaris), which have a calming effect on the respiratory system, and Elecampane (Inula helenium) and Marshmallow root (Althaea officinalis), which help to reduce inflammation and soothe the bronchial tubes.

By using these tinctures, individuals suffering from shortness of breath can expect improved oxygen intake, reduced wheezing, and increased overall quality of life, allowing them to participate in daily activities with greater ease and confidence.

The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for shortness of breath, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Echinacea angustifolia

Kansas coneflower tinctures helps with shortness of breath because it contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory properties.

The tincture's active ingredients, such as echinacea and phenolic acids, help to reduce inflammation in the lungs and airways, making it easier for oxygen to pass through and alleviating respiratory distress.

Additionally, the tincture's expectorant properties can help to loosen and clear mucus from the lungs, further reducing symptoms of shortness of breath and promoting overall respiratory health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia tinctures that help with shortness of breath.

• Iridoids: Iridoids in Echinacea angustifolia may help alleviate shortness of breath by acting as anti-inflammatory agents and potentially reducing inflammation in the respiratory tract.
• Phenylethanoid glycosides: These compounds, which include echinacoside, may contribute to the reduction of shortness of breath by possessing anti-inflammatory properties, which could help soothe the respiratory system.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in Echinacea angustifolia, such as kaempferol and quercetin, may help alleviate shortness of breath by exhibiting antioxidant properties, which could help mitigate oxidative stress and inflammation in the respiratory system.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make tinctures for shortness of breath.

• Roots: They are used due to their high concentration of alkaloids, particularly echinacoside, which is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate respiratory issues.
• Leaves: They are used for their ability to stimulate the respiratory system and promote expectoration, helping to relieve congestion and shortness of breath.
• Stems: They are used for their reported ability to reduce inflammation and improve air quality in the lungs, thus alleviating symptoms of shortness of breath.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for shortness of breath.

1. Harvest 1 to 2 pounds of dried roots of echinacea angustifolia in the fall season.
2. Chop 1 to 2 pounds of the harvested roots into small pieces for increased surface area.
3. Combine the chopped roots with 80 to 100 proof vodka in a 1:3 ratio by weight.
4. Steep the mixture for 2 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking.
5. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter and discard the solids.

2. Ginkgo biloba

Maidenhair tree tinctures helps with shortness of breath because its potent extract, Adiantum majus, has a profound impact on respiratory health.

The tincture's anti-inflammatory properties soothe and relax the airways, reducing constriction and obstruction caused by allergies or chronic conditions. Additionally, maidenhair tree's expectorant properties help loosen and clear out mucus and phlegm, making it easier to breathe and promoting healthy lung function.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries to alleviate symptoms of bronchitis, asthma, and COPD, offering relief from shortness of breath and improving overall respiratory well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba tinctures that help with shortness of breath.

• Bilobalide: A terpene derivative that helps improve lung function and reduce inflammation in the airways, thereby alleviating shortness of breath.
• Flavonoids: A class of phenolic compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the lungs and improve oxygenation, thereby easing shortness of breath.
• Ginkgotoxin: A biflavonoid that has vasodilatory properties, which can help improve blood flow to the lungs, reducing congestion and oxygenating the body more efficiently, thus alleviating shortness of breath.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make tinctures for shortness of breath.

• Leaves: Leaves of Ginkgo biloba are widely used to make tinctures due to their high concentration of flavonoids and terpenoids, which improve blood flow and reduce inflammation in the lungs.
• Seeds: Ginkgo biloba seeds are used to make tinctures as they contain ginkgolic acid, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help alleviate respiratory issues.
• Barks: The barks of Ginkgo biloba trees are used to make tinctures due to their high content of flavonoids and lignans, which help to improve circulation and reduce oxidative stress in the lungs.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for shortness of breath.

1. Harvest 1-2 pounds of fresh ginkgo biloba leaves or 1/2 pound of dried leaves for tincture preparation.
2. Chop the harvested leaves into small pieces to increase the surface area for solvent absorption.
3. Combine the chopped leaves with 80-100 proof vodka in a 1:3 leaf-to-solvent ratio in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks or 2-4 weeks for a stronger tincture.
5. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.

3. Mentha x piperita

Peppermint tinctures helps with shortness of breath because its natural menthol content relaxes the airways, allowing for easier breathing.

The herb's anti-inflammatory properties reduce constriction in the bronchial tubes, opening up pathways for smooth airflow. Additionally, peppermint's calming effects on the respiratory system help to alleviate feelings of anxiety and tension that can exacerbate shortness of breath.

By promoting relaxation and reducing inflammation, herbal peppermint tinctures provide natural relief from shortness of breath, making it a popular remedy for respiratory issues.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita tinctures that help with shortness of breath.

• Menthol: Menthol is a terpene that helps alleviate shortness of breath by thinning mucus and reducing inflammation in the airways, making it easier to breathe.
• Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid is a phenolic compound that has anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce airway inflammation and alleviate symptoms of shortness of breath.
• Volatile oils: These terpenes have bronchodilatory effects, which help relax airway muscles and increase lung capacity, alleviating shortness of breath.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make tinctures for shortness of breath.

• Leaves: Peppermint leaves are used due to their high menthol content, which helps to ease respiratory issues and relieve shortness of breath.
• Stems: The stems of Peppermint contain menthone and limonene, which aid in reducing inflammation and improving breathing.
• Buds: Peppermint buds are used due to their high concentration of essential oils, including menthone and menthyl acetate, which help to relax airways and alleviate shortness of breath.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1-2 cups of fresh mentha x piperita leaves and flowers at peak potency during sunny days.
2. Chop the harvested leaves and flowers into small pieces using a sharp knife to release oils.
3. Combine the chopped mentha x piperita with 80 proof vodka in a 1:5 ratio by weight for a strong tincture.
4. Store the mixture in a clean glass jar and steep it in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks shaking daily.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a separate container discarding the solids.

4. Thymus vulgaris

Thyme tinctures helps with shortness of breath because it contains thymol, a natural expectorant that loosens and clears mucus from the lungs.

This allows for easier breathing and reduces congestion, making it an effective remedy for bronchitis, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Additionally, thyme's anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce swelling in the airways, further easing respiratory distress.

By promoting healthy lung function, herbal thyme tinctures can provide natural relief from shortness of breath.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus vulgaris tinctures that help with shortness of breath.

• Thymol: Thymol has expectorant properties, helping to loosen and clear mucus from the airways, making it easier to breathe.
• Caryophyllene oxide: This sesquiterpene has anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory effects, which can help to relax airway muscles and reduce inflammation, making it easier to breathe.
• Rosmarinic acid: As an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound, rosmarinic acid may help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the lungs, making it easier to breathe.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make tinctures for shortness of breath.

• Leaves: The leaves of Thymus vulgaris are rich in thymol, a compound with expectorant properties that helps to relieve respiratory issues.
• Flowers: The flowers of Thymus vulgaris are used to make tinctures due to their high content of thymol and other volatile oils that help to ease congestion and promote breathing.
• Buds: Thymus vulgaris buds are used to make tinctures for their high concentration of thymol and other compounds that help to reduce inflammation and promote respiratory health.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh thymus vulgaris leaves from healthy plants in the morning after dew has evaporated.
2. Dry the fresh leaves in a single layer on paper bags or a clean cloth.
3. Combine 1 part of dried thymus vulgaris leaves with 2 parts of 80-proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.
5. Label the tincture bottle with the date the tincture was made and the ingredients used.

5. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice tinctures helps with shortness of breath because they contain glycyrrhizin, a compound that has been shown to reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract and improve lung function.

The anti-inflammatory properties of licorice root help to ease bronchial constriction, allowing for easier breathing and increased oxygen intake.

Additionally, the soothing properties of licorice tincture can calm irritated airways and mucous membranes, further alleviating shortness of breath and promoting overall respiratory health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures that help with shortness of breath.

• Saponins: Saponins in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures help alleviate shortness of breath by reducing inflammation in the airways and lungs, making it easier to breathe.
• Glycyrrhetic acid: Glycyrrhetic acid in the tincture helps alleviate shortness of breath by its anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory properties, which open up the airways and improve breathing.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures, such as isoliquiritigenin, help alleviate shortness of breath by their antioxidant properties, which protect the lungs from oxidative damage and inflammation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make tinctures for shortness of breath.

• Roots: The roots are used due to their high content of glycyrrhizin, a compound that helps reduce inflammation and opens up airways.
• Leaves: The leaves are used due to their bioactive compounds that help in relieving bronchial spasms and improving respiratory function.
• Flowers: The flowers are used due to their flavonoid and saponin content, which helps in reducing inflammation and improving breathing in individuals with respiratory issues.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 50 grams of fresh glycyrrhiza glabra roots with a 10% moisture content and clean them thoroughly.
2. Chop the cleaned roots into small pieces and dry them at 50°c for 2 hours to reduce moisture.
3. Combine 50 grams of dried root pieces with 750 milliliters of 70% ethanol in a glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 weeks with occasional shaking to enhance extraction.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth and discard the solids then bottle the tincture.

6. Eucalyptus globulus

Tasmanian blue gum tinctures helps with shortness of breath because it contains eucalyptus oil, which has natural decongestant and expectorant properties.

When taken internally, the eucalyptus oil helps to clear mucus and phlegm from the lungs and airways, making it easier to breathe.

Additionally, Tasmanian blue gum tinctures have anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce swelling in the respiratory tract, further alleviating shortness of breath symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Eucalyptus globulus tinctures that help with shortness of breath.

• Eucalyptol: Eucalyptol, a terpene, helps to open up airways and reduce inflammation, making it easier to breathe.
• Cineole: Cineole, also a terpene, acts as a bronchodilator, allowing for increased airflow and reducing congestion.
• Caffeic acid: Caffeic Acid, a phenolic compound, exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to alleviate the underlying causes of shortness of breath.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of tasmanian blue gum used to make tinctures for shortness of breath.

• Leaves: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of eucalyptol, a compound responsible for their decongestant and expectorant properties.
• Barks: The barks of Eucalyptus globulus contain flavonoids and phenolic acids, which contribute to their anti-inflammatory and decongestant properties, making them effective in relieving shortness of breath.
• Stems: The stems of the plant also contain eucalyptol and other compounds that help in relieving congestion and promoting easier breathing, making them a viable option for tincture production.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tasmanian blue gum for shortness of breath.

1. Harvest 20g of fresh eucalyptus globulus leaves and stems in the early morning to ensure optimal potency.
2. Clean the leaves and stems thoroughly to remove dirt and debris using a fine mesh strainer.
3. Combine the cleaned eucalyptus globulus plant material with 50% ethanol by volume in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks, shaking the jar every 2 days.
5. Strain the liquid through a coffee filter into a clean glass container and store the tincture in a cool dark place.

7. Salvia officinalis

Sage tinctures helps with shortness of breath because it is a natural bronchodilator, meaning it can help relax and expand airways in the lungs.

The antioxidant properties in sage tincture also reduce inflammation and ease congestion, making breathing easier. Additionally, sage's expectorant qualities help loosen and clear mucus from the respiratory tract, further relieving shortness of breath symptoms.

By addressing these underlying issues, sage tinctures can provide natural relief for individuals experiencing shortness of breath, promoting improved lung function and overall respiratory health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia officinalis tinctures that help with shortness of breath.

• Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound that helps with shortness of breath by exerting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which may reduce inflammation in the airways and improve respiratory function.
• Salvianolic acid a: A phenolic compound with antioxidant properties that may help alleviate shortness of breath by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the lungs and airways.
• Caryophyllene oxide: A sesquiterpene that may help with shortness of breath by inducing relaxation, reducing anxiety and stress, which can contribute to improved breathing patterns and respiratory function.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make tinctures for shortness of breath.

• Leaves: The leaves of Salvia officinalis are commonly used for tinctures as they contain high amounts of essential oils, including thujone, which has been traditionally used to relieve respiratory issues.
• Flowers: Salvia officinalis flowers are used for their calming and expectorant properties, helping to reduce shortness of breath by loosening mucus and promoting easier breathing.
• Stems: The stems of Salvia officinalis contain a high concentration of rosmarinic acid, which is used in tinctures to alleviate respiratory issues, such as shortness of breath, by reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest the salvia officinalis leaves and flowers in the morning after the dew has dried.
2. Dry the salvia officinalis leaves and flowers in a warm dark place for 1 to 2 weeks.
3. Combine 1 part dried salvia officinalis with 2 parts 80-proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in the dark for 2 to 6 weeks, shaking the jar every day.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into another clean glass bottle, discarding the solids.

8. Verbascum thapsus

Mullein tinctures helps with shortness of breath because they possess anti-inflammatory properties that soothe and calm the airways.

The mucilage in mullein helps to reduce inflammation and irritation, allowing for easier breathing. Additionally, mullein's expectorant properties help to loosen and clear mucus from the lungs, making it an effective natural remedy for respiratory issues such as bronchitis, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

By reducing inflammation and clearing out mucus, mullein tinctures can provide significant relief from shortness of breath.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Verbascum thapsus tinctures that help with shortness of breath.

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help with shortness of breath by relaxing the smooth muscles in the airways, reducing inflammation, and increasing oxygen flow.
• Verbascoside: This phenylethanoid glycoside has anti-inflammatory and spasmolytic properties, which help to reduce inflammation and relax the airway muscles, thereby alleviating shortness of breath.
• Leptospermone: This iridoid glycoside has been shown to have bronchodilatory effects, meaning it helps to widen the airways and improve airflow, making it easier to breathe.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of mullein used to make tinctures for shortness of breath.

• Leaves: Used due to their expectorant properties, helping to loosen and clear mucus from the airways.
• Stems: Utilized for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and ease breathing difficulties.
• Flowers: Employed for their demulcent properties, providing a soothing effect on the mucous membranes and reducing inflammation in the respiratory tract.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 part of dried plant material in the morning after the dew has evaporated to ensure highest potency.
2. Chop the plant material into small pieces to increase surface area for tincture extraction.
3. Combine 1 part of plant material with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Seal the jar and store it in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks to allow for infusion.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into another clean glass bottle and discard the solids.

9. Achillea millefolium

Yarrow tinctures helps with shortness of breath because it contains a unique combination of compounds that work synergistically to ease respiratory issues.

The bitter principles in yarrow, such as achillein and saponins, help to reduce inflammation and spasms in the airways, allowing for easier breathing. Additionally, yarrow's expectorant properties help to loosen and clear out mucus from the lungs and bronchial tubes, further alleviating shortness of breath.

As a result, yarrow tinctures can provide relief for individuals suffering from chronic bronchitis, asthma, and other respiratory conditions characterized by shortness of breath.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Achillea millefolium tinctures that help with shortness of breath.

• Sesquiterpene lactones: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation in the airways, alleviating shortness of breath.
• Flavonoids: These phenolic compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help protect the lungs and airways from damage and reduce inflammation that contributes to shortness of breath.
• Essential oil components: These volatile compounds have expectorant properties, helping to loosen and clear mucus from the lungs and airways, making it easier to breathe.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of yarrow used to make tinctures for shortness of breath.

• Leaves: Used for their anti-inflammatory properties which may help alleviate respiratory issues.
• Flowers: Used for their expectorant properties which can help loosen and remove mucus from the lungs.
• Roots: Used for their anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties which may help calm the respiratory system and improve breathing.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1:2 part ratio of fresh achillea millefolium flowers and leaves in the early morning when dew is still present.
2. Clean the harvested plant material by gently shaking off any dirt or debris from the fresh achillea millefolium.
3. Combine 1 part of the cleaned achillea millefolium with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Place the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks, shaking it gently every day.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass bottle, discarding the solids.

10. Hyssopus officinalis

Hyssop tinctures helps with shortness of breath because it has natural anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the respiratory system, reducing inflammation and congestion in the lungs.

The bioactive compounds in hyssop, such as volatile oils and flavonoids, help to relax the airways, making it easier to breathe deeply and efficiently. Additionally, hyssop's expectorant properties help to loosen and clear mucus from the lungs, further alleviating respiratory distress.

This natural remedy can provide relief for those experiencing chronic bronchitis, asthma, and other respiratory conditions that cause shortness of breath.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hyssopus officinalis tinctures that help with shortness of breath.

• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation in the airways, making it easier to breathe.
• Urosolic acid: This triterpenoid has bronchodilatory effects, which help widen the airways and improve airflow, thereby alleviating shortness of breath.
• Caryophyllene oxide: This sesquiterpene has anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory properties, which help reduce inflammation and improve airflow in the airways, making it easier to breathe.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of hyssop used to make tinctures for shortness of breath.

• Leaves: The leaves are used due to their high concentration of volatile oils, which can help alleviate respiratory issues.
• Flowers: The flowers are used because of their calming effects and potential to reduce inflammation in the airways.
• Roots: The roots are used due to their adaptogenic properties, which can help the body adapt to stress and improve respiratory function.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 part of hyssopus officinalis flowers and 2 parts of leaves in the morning or after the rain.
2. Dry the plant material for 1-2 weeks in a warm and dry place to reduce moisture content to 10%.
3. Combine the dried plant material with 60% ethanol or vodka in a ratio of 1:3 by weight.
4. Store the mixture in a glass container with a lid for 2-6 weeks in a cool and dark place.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.

What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for shortness of breath?

The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with shortness of breath is a blend of Ashwagandha, Elecampane, and Thyme.

Ashwagandha helps to reduce stress and anxiety, while Elecampane supports lung health and relieves congestion. Thyme, rich in expectorant properties, helps to break down mucus and promote easy breathing. When combined, these tinctures can provide a powerful and natural remedy for shortness of breath, promoting relaxation and improved respiratory function.

This combination can be taken in small doses, ideally three times a day, under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

What ailments similar to shortness of breath are treated with herbal tinctures?

Ailments similar to shortness of breath that are treated with herbal tinctures are asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and bronchitis.

Herbal remedies such as thyme, eucalyptus, and mullein can help soothe and relax the airways, reducing inflammation and constriction.

Tinctures containing herbs like ginkgo biloba and passionflower may also improve lung function and alleviate symptoms of anxiety and panic attacks, which can exacerbate breathing difficulties.