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Lungs are an important organ of our body, just like our heart. If the heart ensures the blood supply, the lungs take care of the oxygen. And we all know the need and importance of oxygen for breathing and thus, living. Our lungs basically take in oxygen while inhaling out throw out carbon dioxide while exhaling. Since, this is a regular activity that goes on round the clock; it becomes all the more essential to keep the lungs healthy for their proper functioning.

Detoxification of the lungs helps in getting rid of bronchial infections, accumulated environmental toxins and harmful organisms and irritants. This process further helps in reducing swelling and inflammation, and clearing mucus from the airways.

There are several ways to detoxify our lungs. Let us get to know about a few of them.

1. Ginger

Ginger is really helpful in the detoxification process of lungs. It consists of various chemical compounds, which eliminate air pollutants in the air passage, thus allowing you to breathe easily. This process further boosts blood circulation.

Moreover, ginger can be helpful in treating lung cancer as well. As per a 2012 study printed in Anticancer Agents in Medical Chemistry, ginger extracts have chemo-preventive effect against lung cancer.

All you need to do id drink at least two cups of ginger tea every day. To make it, boil a few slice of ginger in one cup of water. After 5 minutes, strain the liquid and stir in some honey. Drink it for treating throat infections too. You can also add ginger juliennes to your salads, soups and curries. However, do consult a doctor before taking its supplements. People suffering from heart and blood pressure related ailments should avoid consuming it in excess.

2. Castor Oil Pack

Castor oil is another great remedy for detoxification of lungs. A castor oil pack boosts the elimination of waste and pulls out the bad toxins out from the lungs. It has a similar effect on uterus, digestive system and liver. Moreover, castor oil helps in the reduction of inflammation by improving lymphatic circulation.

Make sure you always use an organic, cold-pressed castor oil to make its pack. Just soak three pieces of wool flannel in one cup of lukewarm castor oil. Spread a plastic sheet on the bed on then lie down on it. Now place the soaked wool flannels on the chest and sides so that the entire lung area gets covered. Then, cover the flannels with a plastic sheet. You have to now place a heating pad on the plastic sheet for about two hours. Later, remove everything and then, take a bath with warm water. Do this therapy at least once in a fortnight.

3. Deep Breathing

Deep breathing is an essential exercise for keeping lungs healthy. It helps in improving the capacity of lungs to inhale oxygen and supply to other parts of the body. This exercise not only strengthens the lungs but also reduces stress and fatigue.

All you need to do is lie flat on your back and place your hands on your stomach, at the base of the rib cage. Now close your eyes and breathe in while counting five. Hold the breath for two second and then, breathe out at the count of five again. Do it at least 10 times thrice in a day.

4. Peppermint

Peppermint is also a great remedy for lung cleansing process. Peppermint and its oil peppermint consist of menthol, which eases the muscles of the respiratory tract. This further ensures proper breathing without much effort. It also clears any respiratory congestion.

A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology stated that peppermint contains anti-congestive, expectorant and antispasmodic properties, which relaxes the trachea.

To use it, all you need to do is chew a few peppermint leaves every day. If you are having congestion in your chest, just pour in a few drops of peppermint oil in a pot of boiling hot water. Inhale to steam to get some relief. Drinking at least two cups of peppermint can also help.