Opti-Pulmo™

Chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs) are conditions of the airways and other structures of the lungs. Some of the most common include chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, occupational lung diseases, and pulmonary hypertension. In addition to tobacco smoke, other risk factors include air pollution, occupational chemicals and dust, and frequent lower respiratory infections during childhood.

Chronic respiratory diseases can be difficult to treat. However, several medical procedures help dilate major air passages and improve shortness of breath to reduce and control symptoms while increasing the quality of life for people with the disease.

Opti-Pulmo™ has been formulated to support the respiratory system. This supplement is a combination of seven herbal extracts in liquid form.

Native to Europe and Asia, mullein is classified in traditional herbal literature as an expectorant (promotes the discharge of mucus) and demulcent (soothes irritated mucous membranes). Historically, mullein has been used by herbalists as an agent for the respiratory tract, particularly in cases of irritating coughs with bronchial congestion.

Lobelia was popularly used in traditional Native American medicine as an expectorant and respiratory stimulant. Lobelia is presently used as a complementary agent for cases of asthma and other respiratory disorders. The active constituent of lobelia is the alkaloid lobeline, which is known for its beneficial effects on the function of the respiratory tract, including stimulating breathing, supporting the cough reflex, and improving vascular tone.

Indigenous to Southern Europe and Southwest Asia, fenugreek is an herb with aromatic seeds. It was an important herb to the Greeks and has been used for centuries in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine. In traditional herbal medicine, fenugreek is often combined with thyme for respiratory system support. Fenugreek seeds contain a wide array of compounds that are beneficial for the respiratory system, including volatile oils, alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids, and mucilage. The primary actions related to the respiratory system are expectorant, demulcent, anti-inflammatory, and antispasmodic.

Thyme is a member of the mint family, originating in the Mediterranean and commonly grown today throughout North America. Often used as a culinary herb, the essential oils that make it valuable in the kitchen also have potent medicinal properties. The antispasmodic, antimicrobial, and expectorant actions of thyme have made it a traditional recommendation for coughs. Combined with mullein, it is part of a classic European formula for spastic coughs, including whooping cough. Thyme’s primary constituents are volatile oils, which include the phenols thymol and carvacol. These are complemented by the actions of antioxidant flavonoids.

Useful for respiratory disorders such as congestion, bronchitis, and cough, fennel is considered an effective expectorant due to its cineole and anethole content. Fennel seeds can help break up phlegm and clear nasal passages to ensure a quick recovery from respiratory conditions.

Used by Native Americans, echinacea was used for a variety of conditions, including venomous bites and other external wounds. It was introduced into U.S. medical practices in 1887 and was touted for its use in conditions ranging from colds to syphilis. Presently, echinacea is used to support the immune system by activating white blood cells. Echinacea may also increase production of interferon, a protein that plays an important part in the body’s response to viral infections.

Ginger is part of the formula and used in various formulations, as it acts as a catalyst for other herbs, leading to better absorption.