This time of year we are seeing so many people coming in with bronchial support needs! As it gets colder and even drier, our fluids thicken and it can become difficult to expectorate mucus. This is a time when copious amounts of tea is extremely helpful. Including herbs, such as calendula, that move the lymph in our tea is an excellent choice to make sure we have, as my teacher Katja Swift puts it, freely flowing fluids.
Herbalist and author Matthew Wood recommends a combination of calendula and anise seed to thin out and expel mucus. I like to mix these two with other respiratory supports such as mullein, Tulsi, and ginger for additional mucus-clearing power.
Try out a tea of:
- 1 part Tulsi
- 1 part Calendula
- 1 part Mullein
- Half part or less anise seed
- Optional: Half to 1 part dried ginger root. If using fresh, simmer root then add other herbs after 5 minutes, turn off heat, and steep 5-7 min, covered.
Drinking 3-4 cups a day is ideal when sick— think a pot of tea, not just a cup! Use 3-4T in a large teapot, or a large spoonful if preparing in a mug.
For a convenient formula incorporating Tulsi, Ginger, Ayurvedic herbs (such as Vasaka AKA Malabar Nut Tree Leaf) that dry up excess mucus, and licorice root that helps lubricate and boost the immune system, try Banyan Botanicals Bronchial Support. This syrup is made with menthol crystals to soothe tight coughs and assist with expectoration.
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We are not doctors. There are no state or federal authorities in the U.S. that license herbalists. The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only. The staff at Blue Hill Co-op do not prescribe, offer medical opinions, or practice medicine. Please reach out to your primary care provider or seek emergency support if you require medical care.
