6. Elecampane Syrup
Also known as horse heal, this plant is an effective lung cleanser. Used in ancient and Eastern medicine for bronchitis and asthma, elecampane root is an effective natural expectorant. It contains inulin, a detoxifying phytochemical that coats and soothes bronchioles to allow them to relax, relieving wheezing and cough.
Elecampane is not recommended for pregnant women.
Here’s how to make this natural cough remedy:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons dried elecampane root
- 2 cups water
- Honey
- Lemon juice
Directions:
- Bring the water to a boil in a saucepan.
- Add elecampane and simmer for 20 minutes over low heat.
- Once the liquid is reduced by half, strain and squeeze all the liquid out of the herbs.
- Add honey and lemon to taste and cool.
- Store leftover syrup in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.
- For children under 14, give a 2/3 teaspoon every two hours or 2 teaspoons for older folks.
7. Lobelia Tincture
Lobelia (Lobelia inflata.)is a very strong and complex herb, also called Indian tobacco. It can be used as a tobacco substitute to help quit smoking. Lobeline is a substance in lobelia that is a mild stimulant like nicotine but is not addictive. Lobelia is also an anti-spasmodic and expectorant (13).
Lobelia also induces vomiting to remove toxins. Because of this, the herb is potentially toxic in large doses. It’s recommended that you only take the herb under medical supervision.