Every day we breathe in dust, dirt, pollutants, and other particles that can settle in our lungs. Over time, this buildup of toxins in your respiratory tract can lead to various lung issues.

Fortunately, natural drinks and remedies provide an effective way to cleanse your lungs and keep them healthy. This article discusses some of the best drinks to cleanse lungs naturally.

10 Best drinks to cleanse lungs naturally

These drinks mentioned below use natural ingredients like ginger, turmeric, honey, lemon, licorice root, cinnamon, and apples with anti-inflammatory, expectorant, and antioxidant properties. They can:

  • Loosens mucus and phlegm
  • Soothes irritated airways
  • Reduces inflammation
  • Fights infections
  • Improves lung health by boosting immunity and detoxifying toxins

Ginger, honey, and lemon tea

Ginger, honey, and lemon tea

Ginger, honey, and lemon tea is a simple and effective home remedy to cleanse the lungs. Combining ginger, honey, and lemon in the tea has powerful effects.

Ginger has anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, which help loosen mucus from the lungs, making it easier to cough up. The anti-inflammatory action soothes irritated lung tissues. Gingerols in ginger fight infections in the respiratory tract.

Lemon contains vitamin C, an antioxidant that fights free radical damage to the lungs. Lemon juice also contains citric acid that helps break up thick mucus in the lungs and airways.

Honey has anti-bacterial properties, which help fight infections in the respiratory tract. The anti-inflammatory components in honey reduce inflammation in the lungs and airways. The stickiness of honey also helps trap and remove bacteria and toxins from the lungs when coughed up.

When combined in a warm tea, ginger, honey, and lemon synergize to cleanse the lungs by loosening and expelling phlegm and mucus, fighting infections, decreasing inflammation, and removing toxins.

Green tea

Green tea

Green tea has the ability to cleanse the lungs in many powerful ways. The active components in green tea that help cleanse the lungs are polyphenols and catechins.

Polyphenols act as antioxidants that fight free radical damage in the lungs. They reduce inflammation in the lungs by neutralizing oxidative stress. The lower inflammation makes it easy to breathe.

Catechins, the main type of polyphenols in green tea, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant abilities that reduce lung swelling. The lower swelling minimizes asthma attacks and eases breathlessness.

Green tea contains caffeine that acts as a mild bronchodilator. The caffeine relaxes and opens the airways, making breathing in more oxygen simple.

Black tea does not have the same effects as green tea, as polyphenols and catechins reduce during fermentation that makes black tea.

Drinking 2-3 cups of green tea daily, especially in the morning and evening, helps flush out toxins from the lungs through urine and sweat. Green tea’s antioxidants and anti-inflammatory effects reduce inflammation, loosen mucus, and open airways for clean and healthy lungs.

Turmeric and ginger drink

Turmeric and ginger drink

A drink prepared with ginger and turmeric roots effectively cleans the lungs. Both ginger and turmeric contain powerful ingredients that target various lung issues.

Turmeric is rich in curcumin, which has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Curcumin reduces swelling in the lungs by inhibiting inflammatory compounds and cells. The lower inflammation allows mucus to clear easily.

Ginger root has the anti-inflammatory compound gingerol, which soothes irritated respiratory tract tissues. Gingerols also loosen thick mucus in the lungs and airways, allowing it to be coughed out.

Drinking turmeric ginger tea warms up the body, which helps expand airways for easier breathing. The vapors from the hot drink work as a decongestant to clear blocked air passages.

Using fresh roots of ginger and turmeric is best for cleansing your lungs—puree ginger and turmeric in a blender, along with honey and milk or water. Boil and simmer this mixture to make the cleansing drink. Sipping on this concoction regularly can substantially lessen cough, rattling in the chest, and shortness of breath due to clean and healthy lungs.

Masala chai

Masala tea

Masala chai or masala tea, the spiced Indian tea made with a blend of ginger, cinnamon, cloves, black pepper, and cardamom, is very effective for cleansing the lungs.

The spices used in making masala chai contain anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties that loosen thick mucus and reduce lung inflammation. Ginger and cinnamon especially have powerful anti-inflammatory compounds that fight wheezing and breathlessness.

Cloves contain eugenol that helps break up congestion in the airways and makes it simpler to cough out phlegm. Pepper’s ability to warm the body opens up air passages and relieves cough.

Cardamom is an expectorant that thins thick mucus while its anti-spasmodic effect eases breathing.

Drinking warm masala chai made by brewing the spice blend in milk and adding black tea leaves and sugar to taste can substantially relieve respiratory symptoms like cough, congestion, and wheezing associated with lung problems. The spices’ medicinal characteristics synergize together to dislodge mucus and relieve lung inflammation.

Masala chai must be prepared fresh every time for the best results in naturally cleansing lungs.

Licorice root tea

Licorice root tea

Licorice root tea made from the roots and stems of licorice plants has powerful effects that help cleanse the lungs and respiratory tract.

Licorice root contains compounds like glycyrrhizin with expectorant properties, making it simple for the body to cough out mucus from airways and lungs. Licorice root tea’s antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects fight infections while reducing lung swelling.

To make licorice root tea, boil a one-inch piece of chopped licorice root in water for 5-10 minutes. Strain and add honey or lemon juice for flavor.

Drinking licorice root tea regularly can help clear congestion, relieve cough, and fight lung infections and decrease the risk of lung diseases over time due to its antioxidant abilities.

Adding a small pinch of rock salt to the hot licorice tea and gargling with it can assist in soothing an irritated throat and cleanse excess mucus from the throat and windpipe, reducing congestion in airways leading to the lungs.

The anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antioxidant, and expectorant effects of licorice root tea work together to produce a cleansing and healing effect on the lungs and respiratory tract.

Honey and warm water

Honey and warm water

Drinking honey dissolved in warm water can benefit the lungs in numerous ways.

Honey contains antioxidants that fight free radicals and reduce inflammation in the lungs. The anti-inflammatory properties of honey help decrease swelling in the airways, making it easier to breathe.

Honey’s antibacterial nature assists in fighting infections and killing bacteria that can cause respiratory issues. The sticky nature of honey aids in trapping and removing toxins and debris from the lungs when coughed up.

The act of dissolving honey in warm water stimulates greater saliva production, which aids in clearing out mucus from the airways and lungs. The increased saliva washes out contaminants.

Honey is hygroscopic, meaning it attracts water molecules, which loosens thick mucus in the respiratory tract, making it easier to expel.

Drinking a solution of honey dissolved in warm water frequently, especially before bedtime or early morning, helps in cleansing the lungs by decreasing inflammation, fighting infections, loosening mucus for removal, and absorbing excess fluids.

Cinnamon water

Cinnamon water glass

Cinnamon contains powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help cleanse the lungs.

Cinnamon water is made by simply boiling cinnamon sticks in water. The hot cinnamon water contains compounds like cinnamaldehyde, which have powerful anti-inflammatory effects that reduce swelling in the lungs and airways. The lower inflammation allows thick mucus to loosen and drain easily.

Cinnamon possesses antioxidant abilities that fight free radical damage and neutralize excess mucus production in the lungs. Antioxidants also boost the immune system to fight lung infections.

Drinking hot cinnamon water relaxes and expands tense airway muscles that cause shortness of breath and coughing. The fragrant vapors from the water act as a decongestant to clear blocked passageways in the lungs.

Regularly drinking 1-2 cups of hot cinnamon water uses cinnamon’s anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiviral, and expectorant properties to reduce phlegm, fight infections, loosen congestion, and open airways for overall cleansing and healthy lungs. Cinnamon’s aromatic nature also makes the remedy more palatable.

Keep cinnamon sticks in water for maximum flavor and effectiveness when preparing cinnamon water for cleansing the lungs.

Apple, carrot, and beetroot smoothie

Apple, carrot, and beetroot smoothie

A smoothie made with a combination of apples, carrots, and beetroots can aid in cleansing the lungs in multiple ways.

Apples contain flavonoids that fight inflammation and reduce mucus production in the lungs. Carrots and beetroots are loaded with antioxidant carotenoids that boost the immune system to fight lung infections and relieve asthma symptoms.

The high fiber content in these fruits and vegetables assists in removing toxins and mucus from the lungs. Fiber aids in trapping pollutants that are later coughed out.

The nutrients in this smoothie, including vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and manganese, aid the healing of the lungs. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that protects against free radical damage to lung tissues.

Drinking an antioxidant-rich apple, carrot, and beetroot smoothie uses these ingredients’ anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and expectorant properties. It will help to loosen phlegm, reduce swelling, fight infections, and remove toxins from the respiratory tract for overall healthy lungs.

Blending fresh or frozen apples, carrots, and beetroots in a blender, milk, water, and ice cubes makes for a delicious and effective lung-cleansing drink.

Mulethi tea

Mulethi tea cup

Mulethi tea, prepared with the roots and stems of the licorice plant, has natural effects that help cleanse the lungs and respiratory tract.

Mulethi contains compounds with expectorant properties, making it easier for the body to cough out mucus from the airways and lungs. The anti-inflammatory and antiviral effects reduce swelling and fight infections in the lungs.

To make mulethi tea, boil chopped mulethi roots in water for 5-10 minutes. Strain and add honey or lemon for flavor.

Drinking mulethi tea regularly helps clear congestion, relieve coughs, and fight lung infections. It also decreases the risk of lung diseases over time due to its antioxidant properties.

Adding a pinch of rock salt to hot mulethi tea and gargling with it can help soothe irritated throats and remove excess mucus from the throat and windpipe, reducing congestion in the airways leading to the lungs.

The expectorant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antioxidant effects of mulethi tea work together to produce a cleansing and healing effect on the lungs and respiratory tract.

Green smoothie

Green smoothie

A green smoothie packed with spinach, kale, and other leafy greens effectively cleanses the lungs.

Leafy greens provide powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. The antioxidants fight free radical damage in the lungs, which decreases inflammation. The lower inflammation helps loosen thick mucus and eases breathing.

Leafy greens contain high levels of vitamins and minerals that boost the immune system and enhance lung function. Vitamins A, C, and E neutralize chemicals causing lung damage. Compounds like beta carotene lessen asthma symptoms.

The fiber in leafy greens assists in removing impurities from the lungs. Fiber absorbs toxins, which are later coughed out.

Nutrients like calcium, folate, and vitamin K regulate fluid levels that prevent excessive mucus production in the lungs.

Drinking green smoothies daily helps utilize leafy greens’ many medicinal values for overall benefits – inflammation reduction, antioxidant protection, immune enhancement, and toxin removal – that aid in naturally cleansing and strengthening the lungs.

The simplest and most effective green smoothie for lung cleansing includes spinach, kale, and other leafy greens blended with fruits like banana and berries and liquid.

What other natural remedies can help cleanse the lungs?

Here are some other natural remedies that can help cleanse your lungs

  • Onion juice
    • Onions contain quercetin with strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Drinking onion juice mixed with honey or fresh onion juice can help loosen mucus and cleanse the lungs.
  • Garlic
    • Garlic is a natural antibiotic and anti-inflammatory. Consuming garlic supplements, raw garlic cloves, or garlic-infused oil can boost the immune system and fight lung infections.
  • Oregano oil
    • Oregano oil contains powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds. Inhaling steam from oregano oil mixed with water or rubbing diluted oregano oil on the chest and back can help ease congestion and cleanse the lungs.
  • Eucalyptus
    • Eucalyptus contains compounds that act as expectorants and decongestants. Inhaling steam from eucalyptus oil mixed with water or consuming eucalyptus capsules can help loosen phlegm and clear mucus from the lungs.
  • Ginseng
    • The anti-inflammatory compounds in ginseng root can reduce lung and airway swelling. Consuming ginseng in the form of supplements, teas, or tonics can help loosen constricted airway muscles and support lung health.
  • Basil
    • Basil has natural expectorant properties that help loosen mucus from lung tissues. Consuming basil leaves or basil tea regularly can aid in removing toxins from the respiratory tract.
  • Ground flaxseed
    • Adding ground flaxseed to shakes or smoothies can help with lung cleansing due to its high mucilage content. The mucilage coats the respiratory tract lining, trapping irritants and helping expel them through coughing.

How can I clean my lungs naturally?

Combine the following natural remedies to keep your lungs as clean and healthy as possible. These lifestyle choices can significantly improve your overall health and well-being. Here are the ways you can clean your lungs naturally.

  1. Drink plenty of water
    • Staying hydrated helps loosen mucus and makes it easier for your body to cough up and expel. Aim for 8-10 glasses of water per day.
  2. Clean your diet
    • Eat a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and fiber and low in processed, fried, and fatty foods. Make whole foods the foundation of your meals.
  3. Exercise regularly
    • Physical activity expands your lungs, strengthening your respiratory muscles. Even a daily 30-minute walk can help.
  4. Reduce exposure to toxins
    • Limit exposure to air pollution, cigarette smoke, chemicals, and other lung irritants as much as possible.
  5. Consider oil pulling
    • Swishing organic coconut oil in your mouth for 10-20 minutes daily can draw toxins and bacteria out of the lungs.
  6. Drink lung-cleansing teas and smoothies
    • Herbal teas like ginger, honey, and lemon tea; turmeric and ginger tea; and licorice root tea can help cleanse your lungs. Smoothies with ginger, carrots, and greens also aid lung detoxification.
  7. Inhale steam
    • Inhaling steam from boiling water mixed with essential oils like eucalyptus and oregano can help loosen and expel mucus.
  8. Practice deep breathing and yoga
    • These exercises and certain yoga poses expand your lungs and increase oxygen intake to support cleansing.
  9. Try an herbal supplement
    • Supplements with ingredients like turmeric, mullein, and elecampane can aid in reducing inflammation, loosening mucus, and killing bacteria in your respiratory tract.

Summary

In conclusion, natural drinks can play a significant role in cleansing and improving lung health. This article highlighted several effective options: ginger, green tea, turmeric ginger, masala chai, and licorice root tea. These drinks contain anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, expectorant, and antibacterial ingredients. They help loosen mucus, soothe irritated airways, reduce inflammation, fight infections, and detoxify toxins.

Incorporating these natural drinks into your daily routine can support respiratory health and promote cleaner and healthier lungs. Along with these drinks, maintaining hydration, following a clean diet, exercising regularly, reducing exposure to toxins, practicing deep breathing and yoga, and considering herbal supplements can further enhance lung cleansing and overall well-being.

Remember to consult with a healthcare professional before significantly changing your diet or lifestyle. Embrace the power of natural remedies and take proactive steps toward optimal lung health.

FAQ

Can your lungs heal after vaping?

Yes, your lungs can heal after vaping, but it may take some time, and the extent of healing will depend on the severity and duration of the damage caused by vaping. Like smoking, vaping can cause damage to your lungs, including inflammation and irritation, and may increase the risk of respiratory infections. 

Can lungs heal after 40 years of smoking?

The extent to which your lungs can heal after 40 years of smoking may depend on the severity of the damage caused. Smoking can cause chronic lung diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which can damage the lungs irreversibly.

Is Pineapple good for the lungs?

Pineapple contains an enzyme called bromelain, which has anti-inflammatory properties and may help to break down mucus in the lungs. This could potentially be helpful for people with respiratory problems, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or asthma.

Author

Sam Perera, Founder of Stethostalk, is a food safety follower and organic food lover. He has completed the PLANT-BASED NUTRITION Cornell Certificate Program, Cornell University, US. Before this, he worked for a few years in IT services. A dedicated follower of nature, he believes in healing with natural foods. In his free time, he loves Gardening, Blogging, and traveling.