When my chest is tight and the cough won't quit I determine to do everything in my power to give my body what it needs to do the job it was made to do which is to bring itself back into balance. I recognize that I must not eat anything made of grain or dairy when battling an upper respiratory issue. So besides diffusing respiratory supporting oils, if I can provide my body with the foods that offer expectorant properties, things often go better.
Foods with expectorant properties:
There are several foods that have expectorant properties, which means they can help to loosen and clear mucus from the respiratory tract. Some examples of these types of foods include:
- Garlic: This pungent herb has natural expectorant properties that can help to break up mucus and ease breathing.
- Onions: Like garlic, onions contain compounds that can help to loosen and clear mucus from the respiratory tract.
- Ginger: Ginger has anti-inflammatory and decongestant properties that can help to clear mucus and reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract.
- Turmeric: This bright yellow spice has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce swelling in the airways and make it easier to breathe.
- Honey: Honey has natural antimicrobial properties and has been used for centuries as a natural cough remedy. It can help to coat and soothe the throat, making it easier to cough up mucus.
- Lemon: Lemon has natural astringent properties that can help to dry up excess mucus and soothe a sore throat.
- Hot liquids: Drinking hot liquids, such as tea or broth, can help to loosen and clear mucus from the respiratory tract. The steam from the hot liquid can also help to open up the airways and make it easier to breathe.
- Expectorant Herbs: Great Mullein, Ribwort Plantain, Inula, Licorice, Sage Tea, Horehound & Garlic
Additionally I use Young Living essential oils for many of my respiratory challenges. Eucalyptus Radiata & Globulus, RC and Raven all have constituents that help to liquify mucous. I use it both topically on my chest as well as diffuse it in my diffuser all night long when I am experiencing these problems. If you need Respiratory Help check out this link for easy access to the things that will help you!
The best thing I can do for myself is to make sure I never run out of my Winter Wellness Must Haves. As long as I am faithfully using these products and staying away from processed sugars I stay above the wellness line.
I am not a medical professional. It's important to note that while these foods may have expectorant properties, they should not be used as a substitute for proper medical treatment.
