By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 19, 2024
10 Best Herbal Creams For Emphysema
Herbal creams for emphysema are topical treatments made from natural herbs and plants that help alleviate symptoms of this chronic respiratory disease.
These creams typically contain ingredients such as turmeric, ginger, and eucalyptus, which have anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties that help reduce congestion and improve breathing.
Examples include creams containing Boswellia and Eucalyptus, which can help reduce shortness of breath and improve quality of life for individuals with emphysema, allowing them to breathe more easily and participate in daily activities with greater ease.
The following article describes in detail the most important creams for emphysema, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Ginkgo biloba
- 2. Curcuma longa
- 3. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 4. Althaea officinalis
- 5. Urtica dioica
- 6. Marrubium vulgare
- 7. Zingiber officinale
- 8. Tanacetum parthenium
- 9. Borago officinalis
- 10. Salvia officinalis
- What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for emphysema?
- What ailments similar to emphysema are treated with herbal creams?
1. Ginkgo biloba
Ginkgo biloba, also known as maidenhair tree, creams helps with emphysema because of its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
The extract from Ginkgo biloba leaves has been shown to improve blood circulation and reduce oxidative stress in the lungs. This can help alleviate symptoms of emphysema, such as shortness of breath and fatigue, by increasing oxygen delivery to the body's cells. As a result, patients may experience improved lung function and overall quality of life.
Regular use of Ginkgo biloba creams may also help slow disease progression.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba creams that help with emphysema.
- Bilobalide: This triterpene derivative helps to protect lung tissue from oxidative stress and inflammation, thereby reducing the progression of emphysema.
- Flavone glycosides: These phenolic compounds possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to reduce inflammation and damage to lung tissue associated with emphysema.
- Ginkgolides: These diterpene lactones have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the lungs, thereby slowing the progression of emphysema.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make creams for emphysema.
- Leaves: The leaves of Ginkgo biloba are primarily used due to their high concentration of flavonoids and terpenoids, which are believed to improve lung function and reduce inflammation associated with emphysema.
- Seeds: The seeds of Ginkgo biloba are also commonly used as they contain ginkgolides, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help alleviate symptoms of emphysema.
- Barks: The barks of Ginkgo biloba trees are sometimes used in creams due to their rich content of bilobalide, a compound that may help improve blood circulation and reduce inflammation in the lungs, thus alleviating emphysema symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for emphysema.
- Harvest ginkgo biloba leaves in late summer when they are fully ripe and dry.
- Extract the active compounds from 100g of ginkgo biloba leaves using 200ml of solvent in 30 minutes.
- Mix 10g of extracted ginkgo biloba extract with 90g of base cream and 10ml of glycerin in 10 minutes.
- Heat the mixture to 60c for 10 minutes to ensure the ingredients are well combined and evenly distributed.
- Allow the mixture to cool and thicken before filling into containers and labeling for storage.
2. Curcuma longa
Curcuma longa, also known as turmeric, creams helps with emphysema because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The active compound curcumin in turmeric cream reduces inflammation in the lungs, which is a key contributor to the progression of emphysema. By decreasing inflammation and oxidative stress, curcuma longa cream may help alleviate symptoms such as shortness of breath and coughing, improving lung function and overall quality of life for individuals with emphysema.
It may also help slow the progression of the disease.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa creams that help with emphysema.
- Curcuminoids: These polyphenolic compounds, particularly curcumin, help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the lungs, which are key factors in the progression of emphysema.
- Tumerone: A sesquiterpene compound found in Curcuma longa, tumerone has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate symptoms and slow down the progression of emphysema.
- Geraniol: A monoterpenic alcohol, geraniol has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory effects, which can help improve lung function and reduce symptoms of emphysema.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make creams for emphysema.
- Rhyzomes: Curcuma longa rhyzomes, specifically containing curcumin, are used to make creams for emphysema due to their anti-inflammatory properties.
- Roots: Curcuma longa roots are used due to their content of curcumin, which has been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects beneficial for emphysema.
- Leaves: Curcuma longa leaves are used due to their content of curcumin and other compounds that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for emphysema.
- Weigh 50 grams of dried turmeric root and 20 grams of coconut oil in a mixing bowl.
- Combine the weighed ingredients in a double boiler over low heat and stir occasionally for 10 minutes.
- Gradually add 20 grams of beeswax and 10 grams of shea butter to the mixture and stir until melted.
- Remove the mixture from heat and let it cool to 45 degrees celsius before whipping it with a hand mixer.
- Transfer the whipped cream into a storage container and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours before use.
3. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, creams helps with emphysema because its anti-inflammatory properties can reduce inflammation in the lungs, making it easier for patients to breathe.
The cream's antioxidant properties also help to protect lung tissue from damage caused by free radicals. Additionally, glycyrrhizin in the cream has been shown to have anti-spasmodic effects, which can help to relax bronchial muscles and improve airflow.
Overall, these properties make herbal Glycyrrhiza glabra creams a potentially beneficial treatment for individuals with emphysema.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra creams that help with emphysema.
- Saponins: Saponins, particularly glycyrrhizin, are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the lungs and alleviate symptoms associated with emphysema.
- Flavonoids: These phenolic compounds have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help protect lung tissue and reduce oxidative stress associated with emphysema.
- Terpenoids: These compounds have been found to have anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, which can help relieve congestion and cough associated with emphysema.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make creams for emphysema.
- Roots: Rich in glycyrrhizin, which helps to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with emphysema.
- Leaves: Contain flavonoids and phenolic acids with antioxidant properties, which may help in soothing and protecting lung tissues.
- Roots is repeated here because the roots are the most commonly used part of the plant, so to continue, barks: May contribute to the overall anti-inflammatory and soothing effects of the cream.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for emphysema.
- Harvest 500 grams of fresh glycyrrhiza glabra roots on a sunny day with low humidity.
- Dry the harvested roots in a warm air circulation oven at 40°c for 24 hours.
- Grind 200 grams of dried roots into a fine powder using a high-speed grinder for 2 minutes.
- Mix 100 grams of the powdered roots with 500 grams of coconut oil in a glass beaker for 5 minutes.
- Heat the mixture at 60°c for 30 minutes using a double boiler and stir occasionally.
4. Althaea officinalis
Althaea officinalis, also known as marshmallow, creams helps with emphysema because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The mucilages present in the herb create a protective barrier on the respiratory tract, reducing inflammation and irritation. This helps to ease breathing and alleviate coughing, common symptoms of emphysema. By reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation, Althaea officinalis creams can provide relief and comfort to individuals suffering from emphysema, improving their quality of life.
It also helps to soothe the mucous membranes.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis creams that help with emphysema.
- Mucilages: Mucilages help to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the lungs, reducing inflammation and making it easier to breathe for individuals with emphysema.
- Althea flavonoids: These flavonoids have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the lungs, thereby alleviating symptoms of emphysema.
- Rhamnolipids: Rhamnolipids have been shown to have surfactant properties, which can help to reduce inflammation in the lungs and improve lung function in individuals with emphysema by facilitating the clearance of mucus.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make creams for emphysema.
- Roots: The roots are rich in mucilages, which can help soothe and calm inflamed airways in emphysema patients.
- Leaves: The leaves contain anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with emphysema.
- Flowers: The flowers of Althaea officinalis contain flavonoids and other compounds that may help reduce inflammation and promote relaxation, which can be beneficial for emphysema patients.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for emphysema.
- Harvest 30g of dried althaea officinalis roots, clean and dry them thoroughly to prevent contamination.
- Combine the dried althaea officinalis roots with 500ml of distilled water in a saucepan and bring to boil.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes to extract the roots' medicinal properties.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a bowl, discard the solids and reserve the liquid.
- Mix 20g of beeswax and 20g of coconut oil with the althaea officinalis liquid in a double boiler and heat until melted.
5. Urtica dioica
Urtica dioica, also known as stinging nettle, creams helps with emphysema because of its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to reduce oxidative stress.
The cream's active compounds, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, have been shown to improve lung function and alleviate symptoms of emphysema by reducing inflammation and protecting lung tissue from damage.
This natural remedy also helps to relax airway muscles, making it easier to breathe, and promoting overall lung health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica creams that help with emphysema.
- Saponins: Saponins in Urtica dioica creams may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the lungs, which can contribute to the progression of emphysema.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds may help reduce inflammation and scarring in the lungs, as well as protect against oxidative stress, which can contribute to the development and progression of emphysema.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids like quercetin may help reduce inflammation, oxidative stress, and scarring in the lungs, as well as improve lung function and overall respiratory health, which can be beneficial for individuals with emphysema.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make creams for emphysema.
- Leaves: Rich in antioxidants, flavonoids, and other compounds that may help soothe respiratory issues and reduce inflammation.
- Stems: Contain urticine, a compound that may help reduce inflammation and relieve respiratory symptoms.
- Roots: Used for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help alleviate symptoms of emphysema.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for emphysema.
- Harvest 1 pound of fresh urtica dioica leaves and flowers in the morning when dew is still present on the plants.
- Dry the harvested urtica dioica leaves and flowers in a warm place with good air circulation for 1 week.
- Combine 1/4 cup of dried urtica dioica leaves and flowers with 1/2 cup of carrier oil in a heat-proof container.
- Heat the mixture in a double boiler at 150-180 degrees fahrenheit for 2-3 hours to infuse the oil.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth and mix with 1 tablespoon of beeswax to create a smooth cream texture.
6. Marrubium vulgare
Marrubium vulgare, also known as horehound, creams helps with emphysema because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling and congestion in the lungs.
The cream's expectorant properties also aid in loosening and clearing mucus from the airways, making it easier to breathe. Additionally, horehound has been found to have antioxidant properties, which help to protect the lungs from oxidative stress and damage.
By reducing inflammation and promoting the clearance of mucus, Marrubium vulgare creams may help alleviate symptoms of emphysema.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Marrubium vulgare creams that help with emphysema.
- Marrubinin: Marrubinin, a diterpenoid lactone, is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the lungs associated with emphysema, making breathing easier.
- Marrubium phenolics: Marrubium phenolics, a group of compounds containing phenolic rings, have been shown to have antioxidant properties, which can help protect lung tissue from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals, a contributing factor to emphysema.
- Marrubiin glycosides: Marrubiin glycosides, a type of glycoside containing marrubin, have been found to have expectorant properties, which can help loosen and clear mucus from the airways, making it easier for patients with emphysema to breathe.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of horehound used to make creams for emphysema.
- Leaves: The leaves are used due to their high mucilage content, which can help soothe and protect the airways in emphysema patients.
- Roots: The roots are used for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the airways and alleviate symptoms of emphysema.
- Seeds: The seeds are used for their expectorant properties, which can help loosen and remove mucus from the airways, making it easier to breathe for emphysema patients.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic horehound for emphysema.
- Harvest 100g of dried marrubium vulgare flowers and leaves from the plant.
- Steep 50g of the dried herb in 500ml of cold-pressed olive oil for 2-3 weeks.
- Strain the mixture and discard the solids then transfer to a saucepan.
- Combine 100g of beeswax and 200g of coconut oil to the saucepan with the infused oil.
- Heat the mixture over low heat for 10-15 minutes or until the beeswax has melted.
7. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, creams helps with emphysema because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, have been found to reduce inflammation in the lungs, making it easier to breathe. By reducing inflammation, ginger creams can help alleviate symptoms of emphysema, such as shortness of breath and coughing. Additionally, ginger's antioxidant properties may help protect lung tissue from damage, further supporting lung health.
This natural remedy offers a promising alternative for managing emphysema symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale creams that help with emphysema.
- Gingerols and shogaols: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation in the lungs and airways associated with emphysema, making it easier to breathe.
- Gingerol 6: This terpene has been shown to have expectorant properties, helping to thin mucus and promote its clearance from the airways, making it easier to breathe for individuals with emphysema.
- Zingerone: This compound has been found to have antioxidant properties, which may help protect the lungs from oxidative stress and inflammation associated with emphysema.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make creams for emphysema.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are used due to their high concentration of compounds like gingerols and shogaols, which have anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate symptoms of emphysema.
- Roots: Roots are used for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help protect lung tissue and reduce inflammation associated with emphysema.
- Buds: Buds are used for their volatile oils, which have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation and improve breathing in individuals with emphysema.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for emphysema.
- Harvest 100g of fresh zingiber officinale roots at the peak of freshness for optimal potency.
- Grind the harvested roots into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 5 minutes.
- Mix 20g of the powdered root with 50g of shea butter in a double boiler at 160 degrees fahrenheit.
- Heat the mixture for 15 minutes or until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Strain the cream through a cheesecloth and store it in an airtight container at room temperature.
8. Tanacetum parthenium
Tanacetum parthenium, also known as feverfew, creams helps with emphysema because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The cream's active compounds, such as parthenolide, reduce inflammation in the lungs, which is a primary contributor to the symptoms of emphysema. By decreasing inflammation, Tanacetum parthenium cream may help alleviate coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath associated with the condition.
Additionally, its expectorant properties may aid in the removal of excess mucus, further relieving symptoms and improving overall lung function.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Tanacetum parthenium creams that help with emphysema.
- Chrysanthemumulin: This sesquiterpene lactone is believed to help alleviate symptoms of emphysema by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the lungs.
- Parthenolide: A key constituent of Tanacetum parthenium, parthenolide has been found to possess anti-inflammatory properties, which can help in reducing the severity of emphysema by decreasing inflammation in the airways.
- Acacetin: This flavonoid has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help in protecting the lungs from damage and reducing the progression of emphysema.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of feverfew used to make creams for emphysema.
- Leaves: Used to make creams for emphysema due to their purported anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate respiratory issues.
- Flowers: Used to make creams for emphysema due to their potential to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with the condition.
- Buds: Used to make creams for emphysema due to their possible anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, which can help clear mucus from the lungs.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic feverfew for emphysema.
- Harvest fresh tanacetum parthenium flowers in the morning after the dew has evaporated to ensure optimal potency.
- Dry the harvested tanacetum parthenium flowers in a well-ventilated area at 30c for 2 days to reduce moisture content.
- Steep 20 grams of dried tanacetum parthenium flowers in 100 milliliters of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil at 40c for 2 hours.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain a clear herbal extract.
- Mix 5 milliliters of the herbal extract with 95 milliliters of a base cream and 5 grams of beeswax to create a soothing topical cream.
9. Borago officinalis
Borago officinalis, also known as borage, creams helps with emphysema because of its rich anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The cream's high content of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) and other beneficial fatty acids helps to reduce inflammation and repair lung tissue, improving breathing and overall lung function. Additionally, borage cream's anti-inflammatory properties may help to reduce mucus production and congestion, making it easier to breathe and manage symptoms of emphysema.
This natural approach may offer relief and improved quality of life for those suffering from this condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Borago officinalis creams that help with emphysema.
- Squalene: Squalene, a triterpene, has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate symptoms associated with emphysema by reducing inflammation in the lungs.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, such as caffeic acid and ferulic acid, have been shown to have antioxidant properties that can help protect lung tissue from oxidative stress, which is often present in emphysema patients.
- Gamma-linolenic acid: GLA, an omega-6 fatty acid, has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the lungs, potentially alleviating symptoms of emphysema.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of borage used to make creams for emphysema.
- Leaves: Leaves are commonly used due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe respiratory issues.
- Seeds: Seeds are often used for their expectorant properties, which can help loosen and clear mucus from the lungs, making it easier to breathe.
- Flowers: Flowers are sometimes used due to their anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and loosen mucus in the airways.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic borage for emphysema.
- Infuse 100g of dried borago officinalis flowers in 500ml of carrier oil at 70-80°c for 2-3 hours.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container.
- Mix the infused oil with 50g of beeswax and 50g of shea butter in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture to 60-70°c and stir until the beeswax and shea butter have fully dissolved.
- Allow the cream to cool and thicken before transferring it to a clean container for use.
10. Salvia officinalis
Salvia officinalis, also known as sage, creams helps with emphysema because they contain high levels of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
These compounds, including rosmarinic acid and camphor, help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the lungs, a key contributor to emphysema. By applying these creams topically, patients may experience improved lung function and reduced symptoms of emphysema, such as shortness of breath and wheezing.
This natural approach may offer a complementary therapy to traditional treatments.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia officinalis creams that help with emphysema.
- Trichosanthes: Trichosanthes is a triterpenoid saponin found in Salvia officinalis that may help alleviate emphysema symptoms by reducing inflammation and improving lung function.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid is a phenolic compound that has been shown to possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help protect lung tissues from damage and slow down the progression of emphysema.
- Carvacrol: Carvacrol is a monoterpenic phenol found in Salvia officinalis that has been found to have expectorant properties, helping to loosen and clear mucus from the lungs, making it easier to breathe.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make creams for emphysema.
- Leaves: They are used for their expectorant properties, helping to loosen and clear mucus from the lungs.
- Stems: They may be used to infuse creams with their antioxidant properties, which can help protect the lungs from oxidative stress.
- Flowers: They are sometimes used for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the lungs associated with emphysema.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage for emphysema.
- Harvest 25 grams of dried salvia officinalis leaves and flowers from a reputable source at dawn.
- Infuse the dried herb in 200 milliliters of base oil such as coconut or sweet almond oil for 2 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container to discard solids.
- Mix 10 grams of beeswax with 50 milliliters of the infused oil in a double boiler setup at medium heat.
- Pour the cooled and mixed cream into a glass jar and store it in a cool dark place for up to 6 months.
What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for emphysema?
The best combination of herbal creams that help with emphysema is a blend of Eucalyptus, Peppermint, and Frankincense.
Eucalyptus oil helps to reduce inflammation and open airways, while Peppermint oil provides a calming effect on the lungs. Frankincense oil, rich in anti-inflammatory properties, aids in reducing scarring and promoting healing.
When combined and applied topically, these herbal creams can help alleviate symptoms of emphysema, such as shortness of breath and wheezing, by soothing and protecting the lungs.
What ailments similar to emphysema are treated with herbal creams?
Ailments similar to emphysema/creams.html">emphysema/creams.html">emphysema that are treated with herbal creams are chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), bronchitis, and asthma.
Herbal creams containing ingredients such as thyme, eucalyptus, and peppermint can help soothe and ease respiratory issues by reducing inflammation and opening up airways.
These creams may also contain anti-oxidants to combat free radicals and promote healthy lung function.