By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Phlegm
Herbal tinctures for phlegm are concentrated liquid extracts made from plants that have been traditionally used to thin, loosen, and expel excess mucus from the respiratory tract.
These natural remedies help alleviate symptoms of chronic bronchitis, sinusitis, and other respiratory issues by stimulating the body's own mucociliary clearance mechanism. Examples of herbal tinctures that help with phlegm include thyme, garlic, and ginger, which have been shown to reduce congestion and coughing, allowing individuals to breathe easier and sleep more soundly.
By incorporating these natural remedies into their daily routine, people can improve their overall respiratory health and enjoy a better quality of life.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for phlegm, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Lobelia inflata
- 2. Thymus vulgaris
- 3. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 4. Pimpinella anisum
- 5. Asclepias tuberosa
- 6. Echinacea angustifolia
- 7. Solidago virgaurea
- 8. Mentha x piperita
- 9. Salvia officinalis
- 10. Ginkgo biloba
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for phlegm?
- What ailments similar to phlegm are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Lobelia inflata
Indian tobacco tinctures helps with phlegm because of its natural expectorant properties.
The tincture's active ingredients, such as lobeline and other alkaloids, help to loosen and clear out excess mucus from the lungs and airways. This can provide fast relief for congestion, coughs, and bronchitis. By reducing the thickness and stickiness of phlegm, the tincture allows it to be easily expelled, promoting healthy lung function and sinus drainage.
Regular use of Indian tobacco tinctures may also help to prevent recurring respiratory issues.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lobelia inflata tinctures that help with phlegm.
- Lobeline: An alkaloid, lobeline can help reduce mucus production and alleviate respiratory issues, including coughs associated with phlegm.
- Nuciferine: A quaternary ammonium alkaloid, nuciferine has been shown to possess expectorant properties, helping to thin and clear out mucus, making it easier to expel phlegm.
- Lobelanine: An alkaloid, lobelanine can act as an expectorant, promoting the clearance of mucus and phlegm from the respiratory tract, helping to alleviate respiratory congestion.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of indian tobacco used to make tinctures for phlegm.
- Leaves: They are used due to their high concentration of lobeline, a natural alkaloid that helps to break up and expel phlegm.
- Seeds: They are used for their expectorant properties, helping to loosen and clear out phlegm from the lungs and airways.
- Roots: They are used for their anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, which aid in reducing inflammation and clearing out phlegm from the respiratory system.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic indian tobacco for phlegm.
- Collect fresh lobelia inflata leaves and flowers in the early morning when they are at their highest moisture content.
- Dry the collected plant material in a single layer at 35 degrees celsius for 24 to 48 hours.
- Combine 250 grams of the dried plant material with 750 milliliters of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks shaking the jar every 2 days.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discard the solids.
2. Thymus vulgaris
Thyme tinctures helps with phlegm because of its natural expectorant properties, which help to loosen and clear mucus from the lungs.
The herbal extract contains thymol, a compound that has been shown to increase the production of saliva and mucous, making it easier to expel excess phlegm. Additionally, thyme's antimicrobial properties help to reduce inflammation in the airways, reducing congestion and coughing.
By using an herbal thyme tincture, individuals can naturally relieve respiratory issues and promote healthy lung function.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus vulgaris tinctures that help with phlegm.
- Thymol: Thymol is a phenolic monoterpene that helps break down and eliminate phlegm by its expectorant and antimicrobial properties, which aid in relieving respiratory congestion.
- Caryophyllene: Caryophyllene is a sesquiterpene with anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory effects, which can help reduce inflammation and ease breathing, making it easier to expel phlegm from the lungs.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid is a polyphenolic compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation in the airways and promote the elimination of phlegm, thereby alleviating respiratory issues.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make tinctures for phlegm.
- Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of thymol, an essential oil that helps to break down mucus and reduce congestion.
- Stems: The stems of Thymus vulgaris are also used to make tinctures, as they contain a significant amount of thymol and other compounds that help to relieve respiratory issues.
- Buds: The buds of the plant are used to make tinctures, as they contain a high concentration of thymol and other essential oils that help to reduce phlegm and promote respiratory health.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme for phlegm.
- Harvest 1 to 2 pounds of fresh thymus vulgaris leaves and flowers in the morning after dew has evaporated.
- Chop the harvested thymus vulgaris into small pieces using a sharp knife to increase surface area.
- Combine 1 pound of the chopped thymus vulgaris with 2 cups of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the thymus vulgaris and vodka mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the jar every day.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
3. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice tinctures helps with phlegm because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling in the respiratory tract.
The tincture's expectorant properties also aid in loosening and clearing mucus from the lungs and airways, making it easier to cough up phlegm. Additionally, licorice root has natural antimicrobial properties that can help combat infections that may be contributing to excessive mucus production.
Overall, herbal licorice tinctures provide a natural and effective way to alleviate congestion and promote healthy respiratory function.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures that help with phlegm.
- Licorinic acid: Licorinic acid, a triterpenoid saponin, helps to break down and expel phlegm by its expectorant properties, making it easier to cough up mucus.
- Glycyrrhizin: Glycyrrhizin, a triterpenoid saponin, has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling in the respiratory tract, making it easier to breathe and expel phlegm.
- Isoglycyrrhizin: Isoglycyrrhizin, a triterpenoid saponin, acts as an expectorant, helping to loosen and clear out phlegm from the lungs and airways by stimulating the production of mucus-thinning substances.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make tinctures for phlegm.
- Roots: The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra are widely used because they contain high concentrations of glycyrrhizin, a compound that helps to thin mucus and relieve congestion.
- Leaves: The leaves of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make tinctures because they possess expectorant properties, helping to loosen and clear out phlegm and mucus from the respiratory system.
- Flowers: The flowers of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make tinctures due to their soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to calm coughs and reduce irritation in the throat and lungs.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for phlegm.
- Harvest 50g of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots with a 2% yield expectation.
- Crush the dried roots into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Combine the powder with 75% ethanol in a 1:5 ratio in a clean glass container.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks with occasional shaking.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a glass bottle.
4. Pimpinella anisum
Anise tinctures helps with phlegm because of its natural expectorant properties.
The essential oils found in anise, specifically anethole and trans-anethole, work to loosen and clear out excess mucus from the respiratory tract, making it easier to cough up and expel phlegm. This can provide relief for individuals suffering from respiratory issues such as bronchitis, asthma, or chronic coughs.
Additionally, anise's natural antibacterial properties help to combat underlying infections that may contribute to excessive phlegm production.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Pimpinella anisum tinctures that help with phlegm.
- Anethole: Anethole, a terpene, has expectorant properties that help to loosen and clear phlegm from the respiratory tract.
- Apigenin: Apigenin, a flavonoid phenolic compound, exhibits anti-inflammatory and antitussive (cough-suppressing) effects, which can help alleviate phlegm-related respiratory issues.
- Pinoresinol: Pinoresinol, a lignan phenolic compound, has been shown to possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help combat underlying infections and inflammation that contribute to phlegm production.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of anise used to make tinctures for phlegm.
- Seeds: They are used to make tinctures for phlegm due to their expectorant properties, which help relieve coughs and congestion.
- Leaves: They are used to make tinctures for phlegm because they contain compounds that help reduce inflammation and relieve respiratory issues.
- Flowers: They are used to make tinctures for phlegm due to their antispasmodic and expectorant properties, which help ease coughs and respiratory discomfort.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic anise for phlegm.
- Gather 250 grams of fresh pimpinella anisum leaves and flowers and clean them thoroughly with distilled water.
- Combine the cleaned pimpinella anisum plant material with 500 milliliters of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Seal the jar and store it in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks allowing the mixture to infuse.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container discarding the solids immediately.
- Store the tincture in a dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid at room temperature for up to 2 years.
5. Asclepias tuberosa
Butterfly milkweed tinctures helps with phlegm because of its unique composition, which contains compounds that have a natural expectorant effect.
The tannins and flavonoids present in the herb help to loosen and clear out excess mucus from the respiratory tract, making it easier to expel phlegm and reduce congestion.
Additionally, butterfly milkweed's anti-inflammatory properties may also help to soothe and calm irritated airways, providing relief for those who suffer from chronic phlegmy coughs.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Asclepias tuberosa tinctures that help with phlegm.
- Cardenolides: These cardiac glycosides help reduce phlegm production by inhibiting the enzyme phospholipase A2, which plays a role in inflammation and mucus production.
- Asclepias alkaloids: These alkaloids exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate respiratory issues associated with phlegm, such as coughing and congestion.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds have been shown to possess expectorant properties, helping to loosen and clear phlegm from the respiratory tract, making it easier to cough up.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of butterfly milkweed used to make tinctures for phlegm.
- Roots: As the primary part of the plant used for medicinal purposes, roots of Asclepias tuberosa are used to make tinctures for phlegm due to their concentrated properties and bioactive compounds.
- Flowers: Asclepias tuberosa flowers are used to make tinctures for phlegm because of their antitussive properties, which help to suppress coughs and relieve respiratory issues.
- Leaves: Leaves of Asclepias tuberosa are used to make tinctures for phlegm due to their expectorant properties, which help to loosen and clear mucus from the respiratory tract.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic butterfly milkweed for phlegm.
- Harvest asclepias tuberosa roots in late fall or early spring when they are most potent and abundant.
- Clean and dry the roots thoroughly using a clean water rinse and a sterile drying environment for 7 days.
- Chop the dried roots into small pieces and combine them with 80 proof vodka in a 1:5 ratio.
- Steep the mixture in a glass jar for 2 weeks in a cool dark place, shaking the jar daily.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter and store the tincture in a dark glass bottle.
6. Echinacea angustifolia
Kansas coneflower tinctures helps with phlegm because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The herb, also known as Echinacea angustifolia, has been traditionally used to combat respiratory issues such as bronchitis, asthma, and coughs, which often cause excessive mucus production.
By reducing inflammation in the airways and throat, Kansas coneflower tinctures can help thin out phlegm, making it easier to expel, thus providing relief from congestion and chest tightness.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia tinctures that help with phlegm.
- Alkylamides: These compounds help to modulate the immune system, which can aid in reducing inflammation and potentially alleviate symptoms associated with immune system dysregulation.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to reduce inflammation associated with various conditions, including those that may be related to an overactive immune response.
- Alkaloids: These compounds have been shown to have immunomodulatory effects, which can help to regulate the immune system and potentially alleviate symptoms associated with immune system dysregulation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make tinctures for phlegm.
- Roots: The roots of Echinacea angustifolia are commonly used because they contain high concentrations of bioactive compounds, including alkylamides and glycosides, which are responsible for its medicinal properties.
- Leaves: The leaves are utilized due to their rich content of flavonoids and other phenolic compounds, which possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help alleviate phlegm-related issues.
- Stems: The stems of Echinacea angustifolia are also used because they contain a mixture of bioactive compounds, including glycosides and phenolic acids, which contribute to their medicinal properties and potential benefits in managing phlegm.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for phlegm.
- Harvest 1 part of dried root of echinacea angustifolia in the early morning after the dew has evaporated.
- Chop 1 part of the harvested root into small pieces using a sharp knife or mortar and pestle.
- Combine the chopped root with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Allow the mixture to steep in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks with occasional shaking.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass jar discarding the solids.
7. Solidago virgaurea
Goldenrod tinctures helps with phlegm because it contains flavonoids, terpenes, and other bioactive compounds that have natural expectorant properties.
These compounds help to loosen and clear excess mucus from the airways, making it easier to breathe and reducing congestion. Goldenrod's anti-inflammatory effects also soothe irritated mucous membranes, allowing for a more efficient clearance of phlegm and relieving coughs and sinus pressure.
As a result, herbal goldenrod tinctures provide natural relief from respiratory issues caused by excess phlegm.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Solidago virgaurea tinctures that help with phlegm.
- Flavonoids: These compounds, such as isorhapontigenin, possess anti-inflammatory properties, which can help in reducing the production and viscosity of phlegm.
- Phenolic acids: Compounds like caffeic acid have been shown to have expectorant properties, helping to thin and expel phlegm from the respiratory system.
- Triterpenoids: Specifically, ursolic acid, has been found to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities, which may aid in reducing the severity of phlegm-related respiratory issues.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of goldenrod used to make tinctures for phlegm.
- Leaves: They are rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help in reducing phlegm.
- Roots: The roots of Solidago virgaurea contain sesquiterpene lactones and other compounds that may help in reducing inflammation and congestion associated with phlegm.
- Flowers: The flowers of Solidago virgaurea contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that may help in reducing inflammation and alleviating symptoms associated with phlegm.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic goldenrod for phlegm.
- Harvest 100g of solidago virgaurea flowers and leaves on a dry sunny day at peak potency.
- Chop the plant material into small pieces to increase the surface area for extraction.
- Combine the chopped plant material with 500ml of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 weeks with occasional shaking.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
8. Mentha x piperita
Peppermint tinctures helps with phlegm because of its natural ability to thin out mucus, making it easier to expel.
The menthol in peppermint oil relaxes the muscles in the respiratory tract, allowing for a smoother and more efficient removal of excess phlegm. Additionally, peppermint's expectorant properties help to loosen and break down stubborn phlegm, reducing congestion and coughing fits.
As a result, herbal peppermint tinctures can provide quick relief from sinus pressure, chest congestion, and other respiratory issues associated with excess phlegm.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita tinctures that help with phlegm.
- Menthol: Menthol acts as an expectorant, helping to loosen and clear phlegm from the airways by increasing the production of mucus and making it easier to cough up.
- Menthone: Menthone has decongestant properties, helping to reduce nasal congestion and sinus pressure by relaxing the muscles in the nasal passages and sinuses, which in turn helps to clear phlegm.
- Limonene: Limonene has bronchodilatory effects, helping to widen the airways and improve breathing, which makes it easier to expel phlegm and reduces the risk of respiratory complications.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make tinctures for phlegm.
- Leaves: Mentha x piperita leaves are commonly used to make tinctures for phlegm due to their high concentration of menthol and menthone, which help to break down and expel excess mucus.
- Stems: The stems of Mentha x piperita are used to make tinctures for phlegm due to their high volatile oil content, particularly menthol, which helps to thin and clear mucus from the respiratory system.
- Leaves: The leaves are also used to make tinctures for phlegm due to their expectorant properties, which help to loosen and clear mucus from the lungs and airways.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for phlegm.
- Harvest 1 part of fresh mentha x piperita leaves and flowers by cutting them with scissors.
- Dry the harvested mentha x piperita leaves and flowers in a warm place for 1-2 weeks.
- Combine 1 part of dried mentha x piperita with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking it daily for 1 minute.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth into another clean glass jar, discarding the solids.
9. Salvia officinalis
Sage tinctures helps with phlegm because of its natural ability to soothe and calm the respiratory tract.
The herb's antimicrobial properties help to reduce inflammation and clear out excess mucus, allowing for easier breathing and relief from congestion. Additionally, sage's expectorant qualities help to thin and loosen phlegm, making it easier to expel, thus reducing coughing and wheezing.
This natural remedy provides a gentle yet effective solution for alleviating phlegm-related discomforts and promoting overall respiratory health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia officinalis tinctures that help with phlegm.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound helps reduce phlegm by exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties, which in turn can decrease mucus production and alleviate respiratory issues.
- Ursolic acid: This triterpenoid compound helps alleviate phlegm by demonstrating expectorant properties, allowing for the easy expulsion of mucus from the lungs, making it easier to breathe.
- Salvianolic acid: This polyphenolic compound helps reduce phlegm by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which can contribute to the formation of excess mucus, thereby alleviating respiratory issues.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make tinctures for phlegm.
- Leaves: The leaves of Salvia officinalis are the most commonly used part for tinctures due to their high concentration of essential oils, particularly thujone and camphor, which have expectorant properties.
- Stems: The stems of Salvia officinalis are also used for tinctures due to their rich content of camphor and other volatile compounds that help in thinning and expelling phlegm.
- Flowers: The flowers of Salvia officinalis are occasionally used for tinctures, contributing to their expectorant properties and adding a subtle flavor to the final product.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage for phlegm.
- Harvest the leaves of the plant at dawn when they are fresh and free of moisture.
- Combine the dried leaves with a neutral solvent such as grain alcohol.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth to separate the liquid from the solids.
- Store the tincture in a cool dark place to preserve its potency.
- Filter the tincture through a coffee filter before using it as needed.
10. Ginkgo biloba
Maidenhair tree tinctures helps with phlegm because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm irritated mucous membranes.
The tannins present in the extract help to reduce excess mucus production, making it easier to expel phlegm from the body. Additionally, the antioxidant compounds found in maidenhair tree work to break down and clear out congestion, promoting healthy respiratory function and alleviating symptoms of phlegm accumulation.
This natural remedy can provide effective relief for individuals suffering from chronic respiratory issues.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba tinctures that help with phlegm.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation associated with phlegm buildup in the airways.
- Terpenoids: As an antispasmodic agent, bilobalide can help relax airway muscles and reduce phlegm congestion.
- Ginkgolides: These compounds have an anti-inflammatory effect on the airways, which can help reduce inflammation and phlegm buildup.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make tinctures for phlegm.
- Leaves: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of flavonoids and terpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties.
- Seeds: Ginkgo seeds are used to make tinctures, as they contain a higher amount of ginkgotoxins, which have been traditionally used to treat respiratory issues such as phlegm.
- Barks: The barks of the Ginkgo biloba tree contain flavonoids and terpenoids, which contribute to its expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful for treating phlegm-related issues.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for phlegm.
- Harvest fresh ginkgo biloba leaves in the fall season when they are fully mature.
- Dry the harvested ginkgo biloba leaves in a warm place for 7 to 10 days to reduce moisture content.
- Grind 1 part of dried ginkgo biloba leaves with 2 parts of vodka in a glass jar.
- Seal the jar and let it steep in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks to allow infusion.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into another glass container and discard the solids to obtain the tincture.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for phlegm?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with phlegm is a blend of Thyme, Echinacea, and Licorice Root.
Thyme's antimicrobial properties help combat bacterial infections, while Echinacea's immune-boosting properties enhance the body's natural defense against pathogens. Licorice Root's anti-inflammatory properties reduce congestion and soothe the respiratory tract, making it easier to expel excess mucus.
This combination can be taken in small doses, 2-3 times a day, to promote a healthy respiratory system and alleviate phlegm-related issues.
What ailments similar to phlegm are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to phlegm/tinctures.html">phlegm/tinctures.html">phlegm that are treated with herbal tinctures are respiratory issues such as bronchitis, asthma, and chronic coughs.
Herbal tinctures like thyme, eucalyptus, and peppermint help to ease congestion, reduce inflammation, and loosen mucus, providing relief from these conditions.
Additionally, herbal tinctures like ginger and turmeric may also be used to treat digestive issues such as indigestion and nausea, which can be caused by excess phlegm or mucus in the body.