Herbal Action: Expectorant

Herbs that break up and discharge mucus from the throat and lungs

Expectorant herbs aid the production and elimination of mucus from the throat and lungs. They can promote coughing when needed to help expel mucus, and are usually combined with demulcents to soothe the mucus membrane in the process.

Because expectorants can be stimulating or relaxing depending on the herb, it helps to match the herb to the type of cough — a tight, dry cough often calls for something more relaxing, while a productive but stubborn cough may respond better to a stimulating expectorant. Pairing with a demulcent (like marshmallow or licorice root) helps protect the throat and lungs from irritation along the way.

What they do

• Aid the production and elimination of mucus from the throat and lungs

• Promote a productive cough when the body needs to expel mucus

• Loosen and thin mucus so it moves rather than settles

How they're used

Expectorant herbs are typically taken as teas, extracts, or syrups.

When to consider them

Consider these herbs for bronchitis, colds, flu, respiratory congestion, pleurisy, emphysema, allergies, and dry, irritating coughs.

Herbs

• Elecampane (stimulating)

• Licorice root (relaxing)

• Thyme (stimulating)

• Violet

• Angelica (stimulating)

• Catnip

• Cinnamon

• Comfrey

• Elder

• Fennel

• Gumweed

• Horehound (stimulating)

• Horseradish

• Marshmallow root (relaxing)

• Mullein

• Nettles

• Pine

• Pleurisy root

• Wild cherry

• Yarrow