By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Emphysema
Herbal tinctures for emphysema are concentrated liquid extracts made from plants that have been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms associated with the disease.
These tinctures help by soothing inflammation, relaxing bronchial spasms, and reducing mucus production, which in turn improves lung function and breathing. Examples of herbal tinctures that show promise for emphysema relief include turmeric, ginger, and thyme, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
By using these tinctures, individuals with emphysema may experience improved quality of life, increased energy levels, and reduced shortness of breath, enabling them to participate in daily activities with greater ease and confidence.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for emphysema, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Ginkgo biloba
- 2. Boswellia serrata
- 3. Mentha x piperita
- 4. Pulmonaria officinalis
- 5. Echinacea angustifolia
- 6. Eleutherococcus senticosus
- 7. Asclepias syriaca
- 8. Thymus serpyllum
- 9. Rosmarinus officinalis
- 10. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for emphysema?
- What ailments similar to emphysema are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Ginkgo biloba
Maidenhair tree tinctures helps with emphysema because it contains a unique combination of bioactive compounds, particularly sesquiterpenes and flavonoids, which have been shown to exhibit potent anti-inflammatory properties.
These compounds help to reduce inflammation in the lungs, alleviating symptoms such as shortness of breath and coughing, while also improving lung function and overall respiratory health.
Additionally, maidenhair tree tinctures may also help to thin mucus, making it easier to expel, further reducing congestion and discomfort associated with emphysema.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba tinctures that help with emphysema.
- Flavonoids: These compounds have antioxidant properties, which help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the lungs, thereby alleviating symptoms of emphysema.
- Bilobalide: This terpene has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, which may help to reduce inflammation and damage in the lungs, thereby slowing the progression of emphysema.
- Quercetin: This flavonoid has been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the lungs, thereby alleviating symptoms of emphysema.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make tinctures for emphysema.
- Leaves: The leaves are the primary part used due to their high flavonoid and terpenoid content, which helps improve circulation and reduce inflammation associated with emphysema.
- Seeds: The seeds contain a higher concentration of bilobalide, a key compound that helps improve blood flow and reduce oxidative stress in the lungs.
- Barks: The barks are also used due to their rich content of ginkgolides and bilobalide, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help alleviate symptoms of emphysema.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for emphysema.
- Harvest 1 pound of ginkgo biloba leaves in the fall when the plant is mature and the leaves are fully ripe.
- Dry the ginkgo biloba leaves in a warm place with good air circulation for 1-2 weeks.
- Chop the dried ginkgo biloba leaves into small pieces and use a 1:2 ratio with 80 proof vodka.
- Steep the chopped ginkgo biloba leaves in the vodka for 2-3 weeks in a glass jar with a lid.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth and discard the solids then store the tincture in a dark glass bottle.
2. Boswellia serrata
Frankincense tinctures helps with emphysema because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the lungs and improve breathing.
The boswellic acids present in frankincense have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, thereby reducing oxidative stress and tissue damage. Additionally, frankincense has been found to increase antioxidant levels in the body, helping to protect against further lung damage.
By addressing these underlying issues, frankincense tinctures may help alleviate symptoms associated with emphysema, such as shortness of breath and chronic coughing.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Boswellia serrata tinctures that help with emphysema.
- Boswellia acids: These compounds help with emphysema by inhibiting 5-lipoxygenase, an enzyme involved in the production of leukotrienes, which contribute to inflammation and airway constriction in the lungs.
- Terpenoids: These terpenoids help with emphysema by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the lungs, which can help slow down the progression of the disease.
- Acylphloroglucinol: This compound helps with emphysema by inhibiting the production of inflammatory cytokines, which can contribute to lung damage and airway constriction.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of frankincense used to make tinctures for emphysema.
- Roots: Rich in boswellic acids, which are believed to help reduce inflammation and improve lung function.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic frankincense for emphysema.
- Harvest 1 pound of dried boswellia serrata resin in the early morning hours after the night's dew has evaporated.
- Dry the harvested resin in a single layer at 105°f for 2 hours to remove excess moisture.
- Grind 1 ounce of dried boswellia serrata resin into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Steep 1 ounce of the ground resin in 2 cups of 80% ethanol at room temperature for 2 weeks.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth into dark glass bottles and label for storage.
3. Mentha x piperita
Peppermint tinctures helps with emphysema because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the lungs and airways.
The menthol content in peppermint also helps to thin mucus, making it easier to expel and reducing congestion. Additionally, peppermint's natural expectorant properties can help loosen and clear out trapped air pockets, allowing for deeper breathing and improved lung function.
By addressing these underlying issues, herbal peppermint tinctures may provide relief from symptoms associated with emphysema, such as chronic coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita tinctures that help with emphysema.
- Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound that has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the lungs and alleviate symptoms of emphysema.
- Menthol: A monoterpenoid that has expectorant and bronchodilatory effects, helping to loosen and clear mucus from the airways and improve breathing in people with emphysema.
- Limonene: A terpene that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help protect lung tissue from damage and reduce oxidative stress associated with emphysema.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make tinctures for emphysema.
- Leaves: The leaves of Mentha x piperita are commonly used to make tinctures for emphysema due to their high menthol and menthone content, which can help ease respiratory issues.
- Stems: The stems of Mentha x piperita are used for tinctures due to their high content of menthol, which can help relax airway muscles and reduce inflammation.
- Roots: The roots of Mentha x piperita are used for tinctures as they contain menthone, which can help reduce inflammation and ease breathing difficulties associated with emphysema.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for emphysema.
- Harvest 100g of fresh mentha x piperita leaves and flowers for tincture preparation.
- Chop the harvested plant material into small pieces for efficient solvent extraction.
- Combine the chopped plant material with 500ml of 35% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the plant material in the ethanol mixture for 2-3 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the mixture through cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle to separate the tincture from solids.
4. Pulmonaria officinalis
Lungwort tinctures helps with emphysema because of its unique ability to soothe and protect the lungs.
The herb, Pulmonaria officinalis, has been traditionally used to calm bronchial spasms and reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract. As a result, it can help ease breathing difficulties associated with emphysema by relaxing constricted airways and reducing mucus production.
Additionally, lungwort's antioxidant properties may also help repair damaged lung tissue, potentially slowing down disease progression and improving overall lung function.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Pulmonaria officinalis tinctures that help with emphysema.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds may help alleviate respiratory issues by exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce inflammation and irritation in the lungs associated with emphysema.
- Flavonoids: As a potent antioxidant, quercetin may protect the lungs from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals, potentially slowing the progression of emphysema.
- Saponins: These compounds may exhibit expectorant properties, helping to loosen and clear mucus from the airways, making it easier to breathe for individuals with emphysema.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lungwort used to make tinctures for emphysema.
- Leaves: They are used due to their high concentration of medicinal compounds, particularly saponins, which may help alleviate respiratory issues.
- Flowers: The flowers are utilized for their ability to provide anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, which may aid in relieving emphysema symptoms.
- Roots: The roots of Pulmonaria officinalis are used due to their saponin content, which may help to reduce inflammation and promote expectoration in the lungs.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lungwort for emphysema.
- Harvest 1 part of pulmonaria officinalis leaves and flowers at the peak of flowering stage in early spring.
- Dry the harvested pulmonaria officinalis material in a well-ventilated area for 1-2 weeks at 35-40 degrees celsius.
- Combine 1 part of dried pulmonaria officinalis material with 2 parts of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture for 2-3 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking every day.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle discard the solids and store the tincture.
5. Echinacea angustifolia
Kansas coneflower tinctures helps with emphysema because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce inflammation in the lungs and alleviate symptoms such as coughing and shortness of breath.
The herb's saponins also have been shown to exhibit mucolytic activity, breaking down excess mucus and improving airway function.
Additionally, Kansas coneflower tinctures may help to enhance antioxidant defenses in the lungs, protecting against oxidative stress and damage caused by environmental toxins.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia tinctures that help with emphysema.
- Alkylamides: These constituents have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation in the lungs, a common symptom of emphysema.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have been found to have antioxidant properties, which can help protect lung tissue from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals, potentially slowing the progression of emphysema.
- Alkaloids: These constituents have been reported to have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which may help mitigate the inflammatory response in the lungs and support the immune system in fighting off infections that can exacerbate emphysema.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make tinctures for emphysema.
- Roots: The roots of Echinacea angustifolia are often used to make tinctures because they contain a high concentration of compounds like alkylamides and polyacetylenes, which may help to reduce inflammation in the lungs.
- Leaves: Echinacea angustifolia leaves are sometimes used in tinctures due to their content of flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may help to alleviate respiratory issues.
- Flowers: The flowers of Echinacea angustifolia are used in tinctures because they are a rich source of glycosides, which may help to reduce inflammation and promote immune system function in individuals with respiratory conditions.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for emphysema.
- Gather 2 cups of dried echinacea angustifolia root, 1 cup of dried flowers, and 1 cup of vodka as the solvent.
- Combine the dried echinacea roots and flowers in a clean glass jar, layering them evenly for better extraction.
- Pour the vodka solvent over the echinacea mixture, making sure the plant material is completely covered for 4 to 6 weeks.
- After 4 to 6 weeks, strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container, discarding the solids.
- Transfer the tincture to glass dropper bottles, label them, and store them in a cool, dark place for up to 5 years.
6. Eleutherococcus senticosus
Siberian ginseng tinctures helps with emphysema because it has been shown to improve lung function by increasing oxygen intake, reducing inflammation, and enhancing antioxidant defenses.
The herb's adaptogenic properties help the body adapt to stress and oxidative damage caused by environmental toxins, which is particularly beneficial for individuals suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
By supporting the lungs' natural ability to heal and repair themselves, Siberian ginseng tinctures may slow down lung function decline and improve overall respiratory health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Eleutherococcus senticosus tinctures that help with emphysema.
- Saponins: Saponins, specifically eleutherosides B and E, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the lungs, a common issue in emphysema patients.
- Glycosides: Eleutherosides, a type of glycoside, have antioxidant properties that can help protect lung tissue from oxidative damage caused by free radicals, which can exacerbate emphysema symptoms.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, such as ferulic acid, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the lungs, potentially slowing down the progression of emphysema.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of siberian ginseng used to make tinctures for emphysema.
- Roots: They are used due to their high concentration of eleutherosides, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties beneficial for respiratory health.
- Leaves: They are used due to their eleutheroside content, which may help to reduce inflammation and improve lung function in individuals with emphysema.
- Stems: They are used due to their ability to increase the production of red blood cells, which can help improve oxygen delivery to the lungs and alleviate symptoms of emphysema.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic siberian ginseng for emphysema.
- Harvest eleutherococcus senticosus roots in late summer or early fall when they are mature and dried properly.
- Clean and dry the roots thoroughly to prevent contamination and ensure quality.
- Chop the dried roots into small pieces and measure out 1 part roots to 2 parts vodka by volume.
- Combine the chopped roots and vodka in a clean glass jar and seal it tightly to prevent air entry.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks, shaking it daily to facilitate extraction.
7. Asclepias syriaca
Milkweed tinctures helps with emphysema because of its unique composition.
The plant's alkaloids, specifically cardenolides, have been shown to help relax and dilate airways, improving lung function and reducing inflammation associated with the condition. Additionally, milkweed's flavonoids possess antioxidant properties, which help protect the lungs from oxidative stress and damage.
By targeting these underlying mechanisms, milkweed tinctures may provide relief for individuals suffering from emphysema by reducing symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Asclepias syriaca tinctures that help with emphysema.
- Cardenolides: Cardenolides, a type of cardiac glycoside, help with emphysema by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the lungs, which can help slow down the progression of the disease.
- Saponins: Saponins, a type of triterpenoid glycoside, help with emphysema by reducing inflammation and improving lung function, which can help alleviate symptoms such as shortness of breath and coughing.
- Iridoid glycosides: Iridoid glycosides, a type of iridoid compound, help with emphysema by reducing inflammation and improving antioxidant activity, which can help protect the lungs from damage and slow down the progression of the disease.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of milkweed used to make tinctures for emphysema.
- Roots: Roots are often used in herbal medicine due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds.
- Leaves: Leaves are commonly used in herbal remedies as they contain a high amount of essential oils and other bioactive compounds.
- Seeds: Seeds are sometimes used in herbal medicine due to their ability to provide sustained release of active compounds.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic milkweed for emphysema.
- Harvest 1 part of dried asclepias syriaca roots and 2 parts of leaves in the morning when dew is present.
- Chop 250 grams of the harvested material into smaller pieces to increase the surface area for extraction.
- Combine the chopped material with 750 milliliters of 80 percent ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture for 2 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking to aid extraction.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth into a clean container and discard the solids.
8. Thymus serpyllum
Creeping thyme tinctures helps with emphysema because it has been shown to improve lung function and reduce inflammation in the airways.
The expectorant properties of creeping thyme help to loosen and clear mucus from the lungs, making it easier to breathe. Additionally, the antioxidant compounds present in the herb have been found to protect the lungs against oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals, helping to slow down the progression of emphysema.
As a result, patients with emphysema may experience improved respiratory function and reduced symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus serpyllum tinctures that help with emphysema.
- Thymol: Thymol, a phenolic compound, has been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress associated with emphysema.
- Carvacrol: Carvacrol, a monoterpenic phenol, has been found to have anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, which may help ease congestion and reduce inflammation in the lungs, making it easier to breathe for individuals with emphysema.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid, a polyphenolic compound, has been demonstrated to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help protect lung tissue from damage and reduce inflammation associated with emphysema.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of creeping thyme used to make tinctures for emphysema.
- Leaves: They contain essential oils and flavonoids, which contribute to the herb's expectorant and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Flowers: Like the leaves, the flowers of Thymus serpyllum contain essential oils and flavonoids, which may help relieve respiratory issues.
- Roots: The roots of the plant are also used in traditional medicine, possibly due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic creeping thyme for emphysema.
- Harvest fresh thymus serpyllum leaves and flowers in late morning after dew has evaporated for better potency.
- Dry the harvested thymus serpyllum leaves and flowers in a well-ventilated area at 35-40 degrees celsius for 2-3 hours.
- Combine 100 grams of the dried thymus serpyllum material with 500 milliliters of 60-80 proof ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking the jar every day to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.
9. Rosmarinus officinalis
Rosemary tinctures helps with emphysema because of its ability to improve respiratory function by increasing bronchodilation and reducing inflammation in the airways.
The antioxidant properties of rosemary help to neutralize free radicals that can cause damage to lung tissues, which is particularly important for individuals with emphysema who often experience chronic inflammation.
Additionally, rosemary's expectorant properties help to loosen and clear mucus from the lungs, making it easier to breathe and reducing coughing fits.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rosmarinus officinalis tinctures that help with emphysema.
- Carnosic acid: This phenolic diterpene has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the lungs, a key factor in emphysema progression.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has been found to have anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory effects, which can help relax airway muscles and improve lung function in individuals with emphysema.
- Caryophyllene: This sesquiterpene has been demonstrated to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the lungs, as well as promote the repair of damaged lung tissue.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of rosemary used to make tinctures for emphysema.
- Leaves: Rosmarinus officinalis leaves are high in antioxidants and contain compounds like carnosic acid, which have anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate symptoms of emphysema.
- Flowers: The flowers of Rosmarinus officinalis contain essential oils, particularly eucalyptol, which may help open airways and relieve respiratory issues associated with emphysema.
- Stems: Rosmarinus officinalis stems are rich in rosmarinic acid, a compound with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the lungs associated with emphysema.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rosemary for emphysema.
- Harvest 1/2 cup of fresh rosmarinus officinalis leaves and flowers when they are in full bloom at dawn.
- Chop the rosmarinus officinalis leaves and flowers into small pieces using sharp kitchen shears or a knife.
- Combine the chopped rosmarinus officinalis with 2 cups of 80 proof vodka or ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the jar every day or two.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
10. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice tinctures helps with emphysema because it has been shown to reduce inflammation in the lungs, a key characteristic of the disease.
The saponins present in licorice root have anti-inflammatory properties that help to alleviate symptoms such as coughing and shortness of breath. Additionally, licorice tincture has been found to increase mucus clearance, allowing for better elimination of excess mucus from the lungs.
This combination of anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties makes herbal licorice tinctures a promising natural remedy for managing emphysema symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures that help with emphysema.
- Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin helps with emphysema by reducing inflammation in the lungs and improving the clearance of mucus, making it easier for patients to breathe.
- Isoliquiritigenin: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the lungs, which can exacerbate emphysema symptoms.
- Licoricidin: This flavonoid compound has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, which can help reduce mucus production and improve lung function in patients with emphysema.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make tinctures for emphysema.
- Roots: The roots are the primary source of glycyrrhizin, a compound that may help to reduce inflammation and improve breathing.
- Leaves: The leaves contain flavonoids and other compounds that may have anti-inflammatory properties, which could help alleviate emphysema symptoms.
- Stems: The stems are another source of glycyrrhizin, which may help to reduce inflammation and improve lung function in individuals with emphysema.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for emphysema.
- Harvest fresh roots of glycyrrhiza glabra in the early morning when the moisture content is highest and cut into small pieces weighing approximately 10% of the total tincture volume.
- Combine 10% of glycyrrhiza glabra roots with 90% of a solvent like 80% ethanol and 20% glycerin in a clean glass container.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place at room temperature for 2 to 6 weeks, shaking the container daily to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container, discarding the solids and reserving the liquid.
- Filter the liquid tincture through a fine-mesh filter or a series of filters to remove any remaining impurities and achieve a clear consistency.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for emphysema?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with emphysema is a blend of mullein, thyme, and licorice root.
Mullein helps to soothe and protect the lungs, reducing inflammation and promoting healing. Thyme, rich in antioxidants, helps to break down mucus and improve breathing. Licorice root, with its anti-inflammatory properties, supports lung function and reduces coughing.
These herbs, taken in moderation, may help alleviate symptoms and promote overall lung health when combined with a healthy lifestyle and medical care.
What ailments similar to emphysema are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to emphysema/tinctures.html">emphysema/tinctures.html">emphysema that are treated with herbal tinctures are chronic bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and asthma.
Herbal tinctures containing herbs such as Marshmallow Root, Licorice Root, and Thyme have been traditionally used to soothe and calm inflamed airways, reduce inflammation and congestion, and relax bronchial spasms, providing relief from symptoms similar to those experienced in emphysema.
These natural remedies can help alleviate coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath associated with these conditions.