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health briefs
Herbal Teas for Winter Lung Health
In preparing our bodies for the upcoming cold season, there are steps we can take to boost lung wellness, such as having a few beneficial blended herbal teas on hand. One herbal ally is mullein, (Verbascum thapsus). Common names include feltwort, flannel leaf, Indian tobacco and lady’s foxglove. This tall. weedy biennial grows upwards of seven feet tall. The flowers are yellow and arranged on a long, club-like spike. This figwort family species blossoms from late June to September, growing in rocky areas on roadsides, embankments and pastures. The leaves have been used for years in Appalachia for treating the common cold. If wildcrafting use caution, as the leaves can cause skin irritation. Simple herbal tea infusions can be made by steeping the dried herbs and straining the liquid. No fancy equipment is required other than a pot, water and a heating source.
Congestion Tea Blend
Achy Throat
2 parts licorice 1 part mullein 1 part slippery elm 1 part plantain
Healthy Lung Tea
Sweeten the tea with honey or choice of sweetener. Drink either hot or chilled, then refrigerate.
Diet is crucial in the effectiveness of plant-based remedies. To receive the most significant benefit, consult with a nutritionist or health coach for a dietary plan to complement the herbs.
April Smith is an herbalist in Morgantown, WV, and owner of Native Holistics. See ad, page 23.
