Find out the “7 best drinks to cleanse lungs and boost respiratory health easily” Our lungs are constantly exposed to pollutants, allergens, and even everyday irritants, and sometimes they need a little extra help to stay healthy and function optimally. While there is no specific drink that can cleanse your lungs, some beverages may support overall lung health and respiratory function. Aside from drinking 8 glasses of water a day, these drinks include:
7 best drinks to cleanse lungs and boost respiratory health
1. Green tea: Green tea contains antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation in the lungs and protect lung tissue from the harmful effects of smoke inhalation.
A 2018 study involving more than 1,000 adults in Korea reported that people who drank at least 2 cups of green tea per day had a lower risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
2. Turmeric milk: Turmeric milk, also known as golden milk, is believed to have potential benefits for respiratory health. Turmeric contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce lung inflammation. Additionally, golden milk is used in Ayurvedic medicine to boost immunity and support recovery from upper respiratory infection symptoms like cough, bronchitis, and sore throat.
3. Warm water with lemon: There is some evidence to suggest that warm water with lemon may have potential benefits for respiratory health. Lemon is a good source of vitamin C, which can support lung health and boost the immune system. Drinking lemon water may also be useful when you have a cold or upper respiratory infection, as it can help loosen congestion and shorten the duration of the illness and strengthening the lungs.
4. ABC juice: Drinking apple, beetroot, and carrot juice, also known as ABC juice, may have potential benefits for respiratory health. Beets are loaded with vitamins and nutrients like potassium and magnesium that promote lung health, while carrots are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, which can support lung health and boost the immune system. Apples contain antioxidants that have been shown to combat free radicals in the body, and the combination of these three ingredients can provide a nutrient-dense drink that may help detoxify vital organs and improve digestion.
Note: Excessive consumption of beetroot, carrots, or apple fiber may cause gastrointestinal upset, including gas, bloating, or diarrhea, especially in individuals with sensitive digestive systems.
5. Honey and warm water: Honey and warm water may help soothe a sore throat and cough, providing relief from respiratory discomfort. Honey has anti-inflammatory properties and is a common home remedy for cold and flu symptoms. It is also believed to be helpful as a nighttime cough suppressant, potentially reducing inflammation in the bronchial tubes and easing coughing, especially during nocturnal asthma. A synthesis of available evidence found that honey is better than usual care for easing upper respiratory tract symptoms, particularly cough, and can be recommended as an alternative to antibiotics for upper respiratory tract infections
6. Turmeric tea: Turmeric tea is believed to have potential benefits for lung health. Turmeric contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help alleviate the symptoms of chronic lung conditions. It has been shown to break down mucus, making it easier for the body to remove mucus from the airways. Additionally, turmeric is considered an expectorant herb, which can address the main causes of respiratory conditions, including inflammation, oxidation, and toxic build-up.
7. Pineapple juice Contains bromelain, an enzyme with anti-inflammatory properties that may help loosen mucus and relieve cough, making it easier to expel from the body. Choose unsweetened or lightly sweetened varieties.
8. Vegetable juice: Drinking vegetable juice may have potential benefits for lung health. Vegetables like carrots, spinach, kale, celery, tomatoes, and bell peppers are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation in the lungs, which is essential for efficient breathing. Juices made from organic fruits and vegetables are known for their high antioxidant content, which can reduce inflammation in the lungs and protect them from smoke and other harmful particles. Certain fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamins C and E, promoting lung health.
9. Ginger, honey, and lemon tea is often recommended to support lung health and respiratory function. Ginger tea has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that may help remove toxins from the respiratory system and improve immunity. It is also rich in minerals such as potassium, magnesium, zinc, and beta carotene, as well as vitamin C. Honey, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, can help the lungs fight pollutants, while lemon is a good source of vitamin C, which supports lung health and boosts the immune system. To make ginger tea for lung health, you can prepare it by combining fresh ginger, turmeric powder, coconut milk, raw honey, and water. This combination can help cleanse the lungs, prevent diseases, and enhance lung function.
10. Mulethi tea, also known as licorice root tea, is believed to have potential benefits for respiratory health. Licorice root contains compounds like glycyrrhizin, which has antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. Due to these properties, licorice root is traditionally used to support respiratory health and may aid in upper respiratory conditions. However, it’s important to note that the majority of these claims are anecdotal, and more rigorous, long-term studies are needed to confirm its efficacy.
How often should you drink lung-cleansing drinks?
There is no specific frequency for consuming “lung cleansing” drinks, as the concept of detoxifying the lungs through drinks is not supported by scientific evidence. The best way to support lung health is to avoid harmful toxins like cigarette smoke, get regular exercise, and eat a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
While some drinks like green tea, turmeric milk, and warm water with lemon may have potential benefits for respiratory health, they should be consumed as part of a balanced diet and not as a sole means of “cleansing” the lungs.
Other ways to improve respiratory health
Here are some other ways to improve respiratory health:
- Diaphragmatic and deep breathing: These breathing techniques can help improve lung function and capacity.
- Maintaining a healthy weight: Excess weight can make the lungs work harder, so maintaining a healthy body weight is important for lung health.
- Keeping the air clean: Avoiding exposure to cigarette smoke, using an air purifier, and keeping the air inside your home clean can help support lung health.
- Regular exercise: Staying active can strengthen the lungs and the muscles that support breathing.
- Good hygiene: Practicing good hygiene, such as washing hands regularly and avoiding crowds during cold and flu season, can help keep the lungs healthy.
- Staying hydrated: Drinking enough water is important for overall health, including the health of the lungs.
- Laughing: Laughing can exercise the abdominal muscles and increase lung capacity.
- Maintaining good posture: Good posture can help the lungs function better by allowing them more room to expand.
Caution
These drinks may have potential benefits for your respiratory system, but they are not a substitute for medical treatment if you have a lung condition or are exposed to air pollution. It is important to note that detoxification is primarily performed by your liver and kidneys, not your lungs. Quitting smoking and avoiding secondhand smoke are perhaps the best ways to improve your lung health.
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