Lung Detox & Cleansing

The lungs act as mediators between the air outside the body and the air within the blood stream. To cleanse the lungs means to rid your body of the toxins that could be affecting the function of the organ. According to Elson M. Hass, M.D., the lungs function best when they are clean and healthy and periodically detoxing them will keep them this way. Check with your physician before starting a detox program 1.

Simple Daily Tips

To improve the health of your lungs, drink plenty of water each day, at least eight to 10 glasses. Avoid eating mucous-producing foods such as dairy, meats, corn, wheat and soy. Increasing your fiber intake improves your body's elimination system, therefore improving overall health of all of your organs. Eat a diet full of a variety of healthy foods and supplement with vitamins A, C, E and selenium to increase the antioxidant power of your lungs.

Grape Cleanse

How to Clean Lungs Naturally

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In the book, "Staying Healthy with the Seasons," author Elson M. Hass, M.D., recommends a grape cleanse to clean out the lungs. Drink freshly squeezed grape juice for five to seven days, or eating only grapes work. You may drink a glass of lemonade each day to balance the flavors if the grape taste becomes too sweet. Also take 1 tbsp. olive oil twice daily and drink a laxative tea morning and night to keep the intestines moving. The grape juice acts as a tonic for the lungs and will help detoxify them 1.

Cleanse with Exercise

Cardiovascular exercise gets your respiratory system working, which promotes detoxification. This will remove unhealthy layers of mucous lining the lungs causing toxicity. Cardiovascular exercise doesn't actually detoxify the lungs but it improves the health of the lungs by making them function more efficiently. Go for a hike, a bike ride, a swim, anything that gets your heart pumping, and enjoy the benefits.

Herbs for Lung Health

Ways to Fix Your Lungs After Smoking

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According to the Vitamins to Health website, mullein, angelica, elecampane, ginger, thyme, and coltsfoot, all act as expectorants, turning unhealthy mucous buildup into a more fluid substance that is easier to detox. Garlic also has expectorant abilities as well as strong antibacterial qualities in case the lungs are harboring any type of infection. Fresh garlic made into a tea with lemon and honey, is great for lung health. Cinnamon is great for the digestive system, promoting smoother and regular function of the lungs.

Detox by Breathing

According to B.K.S. Iyengar, pranayama, or breathing exercises, help keep the lungs pure by increasing the flow of fresh blood. He also says that pranayama trains the lungs, providing better lung health and a better life. He recommends exercises that involve retention of the breath saying they are specifically good for the lungs. Try ujjayi pranayama by simply taking a complete inhale, holding the breath for two or three seconds, and then fully exhaling. Repeat eight times.