Opti-Pulmo™

Chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs) are conditions of the airways and other lung structures. 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 dusts, and frequent lower respiratory infections during childhood. Chronic respiratory diseases are often difficult to treat. However, several medical procedures can help widen major airways and reduce shortness of breath, helping manage symptoms and enhancing quality of life for people living with respiratory diseases.

Opti-Pulmo™ has been formulated to support the respiratory system. This supplement is a combination of vitamins A (beta-carotene), C, and E, citrus bioflavonoids, and herbal extracts.

Ingredients

Evidence suggests that antioxidant vitamins such as vitamin A (beta carotene), vitamin C, and vitamin Eare positively associated with lung function. In studies conducted by Israeli scientists, beta-carotene was found to help people who suffered from asthma attacks triggered by exercise. Other studies have confirmed that vitamin C could reduce the incidence of respiratory symptoms. Meanwhile, vitamin E, especially d-alpha tocopheryl, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. Increased intake of this vitamin could be beneficial for lung function and respiratory health.

Citrus bioflavonoids support balanced immune cell activity for better immune response and support for respiratory health.

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

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 to support the respiratory system. 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 that originated in the Mediterranean region and is now commonly cultivated throughout North America. Often used as a culinary herb, thyme contains essential oils that not only make it valuable in the kitchen but also contribute to its 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 carvacrol. It also contains flavonoids with antioxidant properties, further enhancing thyme’s effects.

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 in powder form can help break up phlegm and clear nasal passages to ensure a quick recovery from respiratory conditions.

Horseradish likely originated in Eastern Europe, but today it is cultivated worldwide. In test tube studies, horseradish has been shown to contain properties that may be effective for respiratory health. It has been used for various conditions, including coughs and sore throats.

Native Americans used echinacea for a variety of conditions, including venomous bites and other external wounds. It was introduced into the U.S. medical practice in 1887 and was touted for 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, an important part of the body’s response to viral infections.

Garlic is known to support cardiovascular health and promote immune activity. It can be used for multiple conditions, including poor digestion, parasites, respiratory problems, and many more. In 1858, Louis Pasteur studied the antibacterial action of garlic. Allicin is one of the major organosulfur compounds in garlic and is considered to be biologically active. Garlic is also known to promote antioxidant activity. Furthermore, studies have found that garlic also promotes antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal function.

Originally from Europe and western Asia, marshmallow has been considered a healing herb for at least 3,000 years. Ancient Greeks highly valued it, and its genus name, Althaea, comes from the Greek word altho, meaning “to cure.” The use of marshmallow as an herbal medicine spread to both Arabia and India, where it has played an important role in Unani and Ayurvedic healing traditions. It is rich in mucilage (arabinogalactans and galacturonorhamnan), antioxidant flavonoids, coumarins, quercetin, tannins, and volatile oils. The primary use of marshmallow is to calm inflammation and irritation of the respiratory and gastric tissues and, combined with other herbs, help alleviate coughs.

Rose hips are rich in vitamin C and have been used for centuries to combat cough, colds, flu, and other respiratory conditions. Rose hips also contain many important antioxidants, plant chemicals that are naturally anti-inflammatory, shield immune cells from environmental damage, and promote the production of white blood cells.

Often used as a condiment, rosemary is an herb member of the mint family. Rosemary is known for its medicinal properties, and it is often used to boost the immune system and promote hair growth.