If you follow a lung cleansing process, it can help you a lot with long-term breathing problems. It is also very helpful for those who often breathe in tobacco smoke or dirty air regularly.
In 2016, The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that around 7 million people die every year from exposure to fine particles in polluted air. These particles lead to diseases such as stroke, heart disease, lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases, and respiratory infections, including pneumonia
Almost everyone in the world (99%) breathes air that’s too dirty, says the World Health Organization. The worst air pollution is usually in poorer countries.
Do you know lungs are self-cleaning organs, they can start to heal themselves once you stop breathing in pollutants
If I quit smoking today, how long will it take for my lungs to heal properly?
After quitting smoking, your lungs and overall health will start to improve almost immediately. Here’s a general timeline of what you can expect:
20 minutes after quitting: Your heart rate and blood pressure drop to normal levels.
12 hours after quitting: The carbon monoxide level in your blood returns to normal.
2 weeks to 3 months after quitting: Your circulation improves, and lung function increases, making breathing easier and physical activity more manageable.
1 to 9 months after quitting: Coughing and shortness of breath decrease as your lungs begin to function better. Tiny hair-like structures in your lungs (cilia) that help move mucus out of the lungs start to recover, reducing the risk of infection.
1 year after quitting: Your risk of coronary heart disease is about half that of a smoker’s.
5 to 10 years after quitting: Your risk of stroke is similar to that of a non-smoker. Your risk of developing mouth, throat, and esophagus cancer is about half that of a smoker’s.
10 years after quitting: Your risk of dying from lung cancer is about half that of a current smoker. The risk of developing other cancers, such as bladder, kidney, and pancreas, also decreases.
15 years after quitting: Your risk of coronary heart disease is similar to that of a non-smoker.
Can We Naturally lung detox our Lungs?
Many people are confused about whether it is truly possible to detoxify their lungs naturally and improve lung health.
Let’s Make you Lungs naturally clean easily at home
Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle
Don’t be fooled into thinking smoking is cool. Avoid cigarettes, hookahs, and other forms of smoking. Steer clear of places with high levels of dust whenever possible, and if you can’t, make sure to use a proper mask to protect your lungs.
Working in dusty or smoky environments triggers your body to produce extra mucus to catch dust particles, microbes, and pathogens, leading to chest congestion and inflammation.
Some techniques may help relieve symptoms by clearing mucus and reducing inflammation.
These techniques include:
Steam Inhalation
Steam inhalation may provide some temporary relief from the symptoms of
Common Cold, Sinusitis (Sinus Infection), Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever), Bronchitis, Nasal Congestion, Respiratory Infections, Sore Throat, Cough, Asthma (Non-Acute).
How Steam Inhalation Works
- Moistens Mucous Membranes: The warm, moist air helps to soothe irritated mucous membranes in the nose and throat, reducing discomfort.
- Loosens Mucus: Steam can help thin mucus, making it easier to expel and clear from the respiratory tract.
- Reduces Congestion: By opening up the nasal passages and sinuses, steam inhalation can help reduce congestion and improve airflow.
Benefits of Steam Inhalation
- Alleviates Congestion: Helps clear nasal passages and reduce sinus pressure.
- Soothes Throat Irritation: Moist air can help soothe a sore throat.
- Improves Breathing: Opens up airways, making it easier to breathe.
- Relieves Sinus Pain: Can reduce the pain associated with sinus infections.
Controlled coughing
Controlled coughing is a technique to clear mucus from the lungs effectively and with less fatigue. Here’s a quick guide:
- Sit Comfortably: Sit with feet flat and lean slightly forward.
- Deep Breath: Inhale deeply through your nose.
- Hold Breath: Hold for 2-3 seconds.
- Forceful Exhale: Exhale in short, sharp bursts using your abdominal muscles.
- Repeat as Needed: Rest between attempts if necessary.
Huff coughing
Breathing technique used in respiratory therapy to help clear mucus from the lungs. Instead of a forceful cough, huff coughing involves a series still effective in moving mucus upward and out of the lungs.
To perform a huff cough, follow these steps:
- Sit upright or slightly reclined in a comfortable position.
- Take a slow, deep breath in through your nose, filling your lungs.
- Seal your lips tightly together to create resistance.
- Exhale forcefully and steadily through your mouth with an “haaa” sound, as if you’re trying to fog up a mirror.
- Repeat the huffing breaths several times in a row, with short breaks in between.
- After a series of huff coughs, take a few deep breaths to relax.
Green tea
Green tea has several benefits specifically related to lung health. Here are the key ways it can help:
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Green tea’s anti-inflammatory effects can help reduce inflammation in the lungs, which is beneficial for conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
The polyphenols and catechins in green tea, especially epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), play a crucial role in reducing lung inflammation.
Antioxidant Effects
The high levels of antioxidants in green tea help protect lung tissues from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals. This protection can be crucial for maintaining lung function and preventing diseases such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema.
Reduces Risk of Lung Cancer
Studies have indicated that the antioxidants in green tea can help inhibit the growth of lung cancer cells. EGCG, in particular, has been shown to have anti-tumor effects, potentially lowering the risk of developing lung cancer.
- Regular Consumption: Drinking 2-3 cups of green tea daily can provide a steady supply of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
- Avoid Additives: To maximize benefits, avoid adding sugar or dairy, which can reduce the effectiveness of the antioxidants.
- Inhalation Therapy: Some studies suggest that inhaling green tea extract could have direct benefits for the lungs, although more research is needed in this area.
Anti-inflammatory
anti-inflammatory foods into your diet can help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases. Here are some of the top anti-inflammatory foods:
1. Fruits
- Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries are rich in antioxidants like anthocyanins, which have anti-inflammatory effects.
- Citrus Fruits: Oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruits are high in vitamin C and antioxidants that reduce inflammation.
- Cherries: Contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
2. Vegetables
- Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, and collard greens are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Cruciferous Vegetables: Broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage contain sulforaphane, an anti-inflammatory compound.
- Peppers: Bell peppers and chili peppers have high levels of vitamin C and antioxidants.
3. Healthy Fats
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats and oleocanthal, which has similar effects to anti-inflammatory drugs.
- Avocados: High in monounsaturated fats, fiber, and several anti-inflammatory compounds.
- Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds contain omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants.
4. Fish
- Fatty Fish: Salmon, mackerel, sardines, and trout are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which reduce inflammation.
5. Whole Grains
- Oats: Whole oats are a good source of fiber and antioxidants.
- Brown Rice: Contains fiber and anti-inflammatory compounds.
6. Legumes
- Beans: Black beans, kidney beans, and lentils are high in fiber, protein, and antioxidants.
7. Herbs and Spices
- Turmeric: Contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory compound.
- Ginger: Has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Garlic: Contains allicin, which has anti-inflammatory effects.
- Cinnamon: Rich in antioxidants that fight inflammation.
8. Beverages
- Green Tea: Contains catechins, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which are anti-inflammatory.
- Coffee: Contains polyphenols and antioxidants that can have anti-inflammatory effects.
- Herbal Teas: Chamomile, peppermint, and ginger teas can help reduce inflammation.
Homemade Natural Lung Detox Recipe
Lung Detox Drink Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 inch piece of ginger, grated
- 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1 tablespoon of raw honey
- 1-2 cups of warm water
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Grate the ginger and mince the garlic.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a mug, combine the grated ginger, minced garlic, lemon juice, and raw honey.
- Add Warm Water: Pour 1-2 cups of warm water into the mug. Adjust the amount according to your preference for the strength of the drink.
- Stir Well: Stir the mixture until the honey is dissolved and all ingredients are well combined.
- Drink Up: Sip on the lung detox drink slowly, allowing the warm liquid to soothe your throat and the beneficial ingredients to support your respiratory system.
Additional Tips:
- Regular Consumption: Drink this lung detox drink daily for best results. Consistency is key to experiencing the benefits.
- Stay Hydrated: In addition to this drink, remember to drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated, which is essential for overall health and optimal lung function.
- Healthy Lifestyle: Incorporate other lung-friendly habits into your daily routine, such as regular exercise, avoiding exposure to pollutants and smoke, and maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.