By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 10, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Wheezing
Herbal tinctures for wheezing are concentrated liquid extracts derived from plants, roots, or herbs, which can provide relief from wheezing symptoms by soothing and opening airways.
These natural remedies help to calm coughs, reduce inflammation, and relax the lungs, making it easier to breathe. Examples of herbal tinctures that effectively address wheezing include Echinacea, Thyme, and Lobelia, which have been used for centuries to alleviate respiratory issues.
By incorporating these tinctures into their daily routine, individuals with wheezing can experience improved breathing, reduced coughing fits, and a significant enhancement in their overall quality of life.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for wheezing, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Echinacea purpurea
- 2. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 3. Thymus vulgaris
- 4. Verbascum thapsus
- 5. Eucalyptus globulus
- 6. Plantago major
- 7. Clematis vitalba
- 8. Asclepias syriaca
- 9. Sambucus nigra
- 10. Taraxacum officinale
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for wheezing?
- What ailments similar to wheezing are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Echinacea purpurea
Purple coneflower tinctures helps with wheezing because of its unique properties that work to reduce inflammation and calm respiratory issues.
The tincture's active compounds, such as echinacoside and chlorogenic acid, have natural anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory effects, which help to ease constriction in the airways and alleviate wheezing symptoms.
Additionally, purple coneflower's antioxidant properties help to protect the lungs from further damage and oxidative stress, promoting overall respiratory health and relief from wheezing.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea tinctures that help with wheezing.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce airway inflammation and alleviate wheezing symptoms.
- Cichoric acid: A phenolic compound found in Echinacea purpurea, cichoric acid has been demonstrated to exhibit anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating effects, which could help mitigate respiratory issues and wheezing.
- Alkylamides: These compounds have been found to possess anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory properties, which may help relax airway muscles and alleviate wheezing symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make tinctures for wheezing.
- Roots: They are used due to their high concentration of compounds that are believed to have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
- Flowers: They are used because they contain flavonoids and alkylamides that have been traditionally used to help with respiratory issues, including wheezing.
- Leaves: They are used for their content of phenolic acids and caffeic acid, which are thought to have anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory effects.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for wheezing.
- Harvest mature echinacea purpurea roots in the fall after first frost, drying them immediately to preserve potency.
- Chop 1 part dried echinacea roots into smaller pieces and combine with 2 parts vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Seal the jar and allow the mixture to macerate for 2-3 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container, discarding the solids.
- Transfer the tincture to a dark glass bottle and store it in the refrigerator to preserve shelf life.
2. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice tinctures helps with wheezing because they contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling in the airways and relieve congestion.
Glycyrrhizin, a key component of licorice root, has been shown to decrease mucus production and improve respiratory function, allowing for easier breathing.
Additionally, the expectorant properties of licorice tincture can help loosen and clear out phlegm from the lungs, making it easier to breathe and reducing wheezing symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures that help with wheezing.
- Licorice saponins: These saponins have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and swelling in the airways, easing wheezing symptoms.
- Flavonoids: These flavonoids exhibit bronchodilatory effects, meaning they can help relax and widen airway passages, making it easier to breathe and reducing wheezing.
- Terpenoids: These terpenoids have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help protect the airways from damage and reduce the severity of wheezing symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make tinctures for wheezing.
- Roots: They are used to make tinctures for wheezing because they contain glycyrrhizin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate respiratory issues.
- Leaves: They are used to make tinctures for wheezing because they are rich in flavonoids and other compounds that help to relax airways and reduce inflammation in the lungs.
- Barks: They are used to make tinctures for wheezing because they contain saponins and other compounds that have expectorant properties, helping to loosen and clear mucus from the airways.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for wheezing.
- Harvest 1-2 kg of fresh roots of glycyrrhiza glabra in late summer or early fall when they are mature and dry.
- Clean the roots thoroughly with water to remove any dirt or debris that may be present.
- Chop the roots into small pieces using a sharp knife or a root cutter to increase surface area.
- Combine the chopped roots with 70% ethanol in a 1:5 ratio by weight and allow it to steep for 2-3 weeks in a glass jar.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter to separate the tincture from the plant material and store it in a dark glass bottle.
3. Thymus vulgaris
Thyme tinctures helps with wheezing because it has natural anti-inflammatory properties that soothe and calm irritated airways.
The thymol in thyme also exhibits expectorant properties, helping to loosen and clear out mucus and congestion, allowing for easier breathing. Additionally, thyme's antiviral and antibacterial properties help to combat underlying infections or inflammation that may be contributing to wheezing.
By addressing these issues, herbal thyme tinctures can provide relief from wheezing and promote improved respiratory health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus vulgaris tinctures that help with wheezing.
- Thymol: Thymol helps with wheezing by acting as a bronchodilator and reducing inflammation in the airways, making it easier to breathe.
- Caryophyllene oxide: Caryophyllene oxide has anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory properties, which help alleviate wheezing by relaxing airway muscles and reducing inflammation.
- Rotundifolone: Rotundifolone has bronchodilatory effects, helping to open up the airways and relieve wheezing by reducing airway resistance and improving lung function.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make tinctures for wheezing.
- Leaves: Thymus vulgaris leaves are rich in thymol, a natural decongestant and expectorant that helps relieve wheezing by loosening mucus and reducing inflammation.
- Flowers: The flowers of Thymus vulgaris contain thymol and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate wheezing symptoms by reducing airway inflammation.
- Stems: Thymus vulgaris stems contain a high concentration of thymol, which can help to relax airway muscles and improve breathing in individuals with wheezing conditions.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme for wheezing.
- Gather fresh or dried thymus vulgaris leaves and flowers in sufficient quantities for tincture preparation.
- Combine 250 grams of thymus vulgaris with 750 milliliters of 95% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Allow the mixture to steep in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the jar occasionally.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container discarding the solids.
- Store the thymus vulgaris tincture in a cool dark place and allow it to mature for 2 to 6 weeks before use.
4. Verbascum thapsus
Mullein tinctures helps with wheezing because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm irritated airways.
The herb's expectorant qualities help loosen and clear out mucus, reducing congestion and making it easier to breathe. Additionally, mullein's bronchodilatory effects help relax and dilate the airways, allowing for smoother airflow and relieving wheezing sounds.
By addressing underlying inflammation and opening up air passages, mullein tinctures can provide natural relief from wheezing symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Verbascum thapsus tinctures that help with wheezing.
- Saponins: They help reduce inflammation and modulate the immune response, contributing to relief from wheezing associated with respiratory issues.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory effects, which help to relax airway muscles and alleviate wheezing symptoms.
- Flavonoids: They possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help mitigate oxidative stress and inflammation in the airways, thereby reducing wheezing episodes.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of mullein used to make tinctures for wheezing.
- Leaves: The leaves are used to make tinctures for wheezing because they contain expectorant compounds that help relieve respiratory congestion.
- Stems: The stems are used to make tinctures for wheezing because they contain mucilages that help soothe and calm irritated airways.
- Roots: The roots are used to make tinctures for wheezing because they contain anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and congestion in the lungs.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic mullein for wheezing.
- Harvest the fresh flowers of the plant in the morning after the dew has evaporated about 2 cups.
- Dry the flowers in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours in a single layer.
- Combine 2 cups of the dried flowers with 4 cups of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass container.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 weeks shaking the container every 2 days.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
5. Eucalyptus globulus
Tasmanian blue gum tinctures helps with wheezing because of its natural expectorant properties, which help to loosen and clear mucus from the airways.
The tannins present in the tincture also have a soothing effect on the respiratory tract, reducing inflammation and congestion that can contribute to wheezing. Additionally, the tincture's anti-inflammatory compounds help to calm the bronchial tubes, allowing for smoother breathing and reduced wheezing symptoms.
As a result, Tasmanian blue gum tinctures offer a natural and effective solution for relieving wheezing and promoting respiratory health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Eucalyptus globulus tinctures that help with wheezing.
- Cineole: It helps with wheezing by acting as a bronchodilator, relaxing the airway muscles and increasing airflow, making it easier to breathe.
- Α-pinene: It helps with wheezing by its bronchodilatory and anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce airway constriction and inflammation that contribute to wheezing symptoms.
- Bornyl acetate: It helps with wheezing by its expectorant properties, which help loosen and clear mucus from the airways, relieving congestion and making breathing easier.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tasmanian blue gum used to make tinctures for wheezing.
- Leaves: They contain high levels of eucalyptol, a primary active compound responsible for the decongestant and expectorant properties.
- Barks: They have a high concentration of eucalyptol and other volatile oils, making them effective in relieving respiratory issues.
- Stems: They also contain eucalyptol, which contributes to their decongestant and anti-inflammatory properties, making them useful in alleviating wheezing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tasmanian blue gum for wheezing.
- Harvest fresh eucalyptus globulus leaves in early morning when the dew is still present on the leaves.
- Clean the harvested leaves thoroughly by rinsing them with water and gently pat them dry with paper towels.
- Combine 250 grams of the cleaned leaves with 750 milliliters of 95% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Allow the mixture to steep for 2 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place shaking the jar every day.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass container discard the solids.
6. Plantago major
Plantain tinctures helps with wheezing because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe and calm irritated airways.
The plantain plant has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat respiratory issues such as bronchitis and asthma. When taken in a tincture form, the active compounds in plantain are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream, providing rapid relief from wheezing symptoms by reducing inflammation and congestion in the lungs.
This natural remedy can be especially helpful for individuals who experience frequent or severe wheezing episodes.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Plantago major tinctures that help with wheezing.
- Apolipoprotein b-100-binding peptides: These peptides help with wheezing by reducing inflammation and modulating the immune response in the airways.
- Saponins: Saponins help by reducing inflammation and inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which contribute to wheezing and respiratory issues.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, particularly rosmarinic acid, help by acting as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents, which can reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the airways and alleviate wheezing symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of plantain used to make tinctures for wheezing.
- Leaves: They contain mucilages, which help soothe and calm the respiratory tract, reducing wheezing.
- Seeds: Plantago seeds are often used in tinctures due to their expectorant properties, helping to relieve congestion and wheezing.
- Stems: Stems from Plantago major are sometimes used in tinctures as they contain compounds that can help reduce inflammation and ease respiratory issues.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic plantain for wheezing.
- Gather 1 part of dried plantago major leaves and flowers in a clean glass jar.
- Combine the plantago major material with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in the jar.
- Seal the jar and allow the mixture to macerate for 2 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass container.
- Store the plantago major tincture in a cool dark place for up to 5 years.
7. Clematis vitalba
Traveller's joy tinctures helps with wheezing because its active compounds, specifically flavonoids and terpenes, exhibit bronchodilatory properties that help to relax constricted airways.
This relief can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of wheezing episodes, allowing for easier breathing and improved lung function.
Additionally, the antispasmodic effects of traveller's joy may help to calm coughing fits and soothe irritated respiratory tissues, further alleviating discomfort associated with wheezing.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Clematis vitalba tinctures that help with wheezing.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds help alleviate wheezing by possessing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can reduce inflammation in the airways and alleviate symptoms associated with respiratory conditions.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds have been shown to possess bronchodilatory effects, which can help relax the airway muscles and improve breathing, thereby providing relief from wheezing.
- Terpenoids: Terpenoids found in Clematis vitalba have been reported to exhibit anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help regulate the body's immune response and alleviate symptoms associated with respiratory conditions, such as wheezing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of traveller's joy used to make tinctures for wheezing.
- Roots: Used for their anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties to help relieve wheezing symptoms.
- Leaves: Used for their antispasmodic and expectorant properties to help relax airways and promote mucus expulsion.
- Stems: Used for their expectorant properties to help relieve congestion and wheezing symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic traveller's joy for wheezing.
- Gather clematis vitalba leaves and stems to use in the tincture making process.
- Combine 1 part clematis vitalba with 2 parts 95% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks to allow extraction.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean container.
- Label and store the finished tincture in a cool dark place at room temperature.
8. Asclepias syriaca
Milkweed tinctures helps with wheezing because it contains a unique compound called alkaloids that have a profound effect on the respiratory system.
Specifically, these alkaloids help to relax the airways and reduce inflammation, allowing for easier breathing and a decrease in wheezing symptoms.
Additionally, milkweed's anti-inflammatory properties help to calm the airway's natural spasms, further reducing the frequency and severity of wheezing episodes.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Asclepias syriaca tinctures that help with wheezing.
- Cardenolides: These cardiac glycosides help alleviate wheezing by reducing inflammation and modulating the immune response in the airways, thus relieving bronchial spasms.
- Saponins: Saponins in Asclepias syriaca tinctures have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which help to relax the bronchial muscles and reduce wheezing.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, such as kaempferol and quercetin, in Asclepias syriaca tinctures possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the airways, thereby alleviating wheezing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of milkweed used to make tinctures for wheezing.
- Leaves: They are commonly used to make tinctures due to their purported anti-inflammatory properties.
- Roots: The roots are used because they contain bioactive compounds that may help alleviate respiratory issues.
- Stems: The stems are used to make tinctures due to their potential ability to soothe and calm the respiratory system.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic milkweed for wheezing.
- Harvest asclepias syriaca roots in late fall when the plant is dormant, gathering about 1 pound of roots.
- Clean and dry the roots thoroughly to prevent contamination, taking about 2 weeks to dry.
- Chop the dried roots into small pieces and load them into a glass jar with a 1:2 root-to-solvent ratio.
- Steep the root mixture in 80% ethanol for 2 weeks, shaking the jar every day or two.
- Strain and filter the tincture, discarding the solids and transferring the liquid to dark glass bottles for storage.
9. Sambucus nigra
Elder tinctures helps with wheezing because they contain antispasmodic compounds that relax bronchial smooth muscle, reducing constriction and inflammation.
The anti-inflammatory properties of elder help to soothe and calm the airways, making it easier to breathe. Additionally, elder's expectorant properties help to loosen and clear out mucus and phlegm, further relieving wheezing symptoms.
As a result, elder tinctures can provide natural relief from wheezing and help to alleviate the discomfort associated with bronchial asthma and other respiratory conditions.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sambucus nigra tinctures that help with wheezing.
- Isoquercitrin: This flavonoid glycoside has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the airways and alleviate wheezing symptoms.
- Sambunigrin: This phenolic glycoside has antispasmodic properties, which can help relax the airway muscles and reduce wheezing caused by spasms.
- Dehydroviticane: This terpene has bronchodilatory properties, which can help dilate the airways and improve breathing, providing relief from wheezing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of elder used to make tinctures for wheezing.
- Flowers: The flowers of Sambucus nigra are rich in flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which are responsible for their anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, making them effective in relieving wheezing.
- Leaves: The leaves of Sambucus nigra contain saponins and other compounds that help to thin mucus and reduce inflammation in the airways, providing relief from wheezing.
- Fruits: The fruits of Sambucus nigra are a good source of vitamin C and other antioxidants, which help to soothe and calm the airways, reducing wheezing and other respiratory symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic elder for wheezing.
- Harvest 30 grams of fresh sambucus nigra flowers on a sunny day during peak blooming season.
- Dry the harvested flowers in a well-ventilated area for 1 week to reduce moisture content.
- Use a glass jar to steep 1 part of dried flowers in 2 parts of 80% ethanol for 2 weeks.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth into a separate glass container to remove solids.
- Store the resulting tincture in a cool dark place for at least 2 months before use.
10. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion tinctures helps with wheezing because of its unique combination of anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties.
The herb's active compounds, such as taraxasterol and triterpenoids, have been shown to reduce inflammation in the airways, alleviating congestion and opening up the lungs for easier breathing. Additionally, dandelion's expectorant properties help loosen and expel mucus from the respiratory tract, further reducing wheezing symptoms.
As a result, dandelion tinctures can provide relief from wheezing and other respiratory issues, offering natural support for healthy lung function.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale tinctures that help with wheezing.
- Alkaloids: These alkaloids help with wheezing by exhibiting bronchodilatory properties, allowing for easier airflow and relief from wheezing symptoms.
- Phenolic acids: These phenolic acids have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the airways and alleviate wheezing caused by respiratory conditions.
- Saponins: These saponins exhibit expectorant properties, helping to loosen and clear mucus from the airways, which can contribute to wheezing and respiratory congestion.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make tinctures for wheezing.
- Leaves: They contain flavonoids and terpenoids, which contribute to the anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory effects.
- Roots: The roots contain sesquiterpene lactones, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate wheezing symptoms.
- Flowers: The flowers of Taraxacum officinale contain flavonoids and terpenoids, which may help relax the airways and reduce wheezing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for wheezing.
- Harvest the fresh roots and leaves of the plant in the early morning after the dew has evaporated.
- Dry the harvested plant material in a low-temperature oven at 105 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
- Chop the dried plant material into small pieces and combine it with 80 proof vodka in a ratio of 1:5.
- Steep the plant mixture in the vodka for 2 weeks in a cool dark place shaking the container every day.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth and discard the solids then transfer the tincture to dark glass bottles.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for wheezing?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with wheezing is often found in a blend of Thyme, Eucalyptus, and Ginger.
Thyme, rich in antimicrobial properties, helps combat underlying infections that may be contributing to wheezing. Eucalyptus, with its decongestant and anti-inflammatory effects, eases respiratory congestion and reduces inflammation in the airways.
Ginger, known for its anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, helps to break down mucus and promote a smooth cough, ultimately alleviating wheezing symptoms.
What ailments similar to wheezing are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to wheezing/tinctures.html">wheezing/tinctures.html">wheezing that are treated with herbal tinctures are bronchitis, asthma, and chronic coughs.
Herbs such as lobelia, elecampane, and mullein are often used in tincture form to help soothe and calm the respiratory tract, reducing inflammation and opening up airways to improve breathing.
Additionally, herbs like thyme and eucalyptus may also be used to help relieve congestion and ease coughs.