Herbal Support for Wildfire Smoke

Struggling with smoke impacts? Want to make sure your cabinet is ready & stocked for the rest of the fire season?

With all the smoke in the air right now, our respiratory systems are taking a hit. You might be
experiencing cough, sore throat, chest tightness, shortness of breath, headache, malaise, even
irritability or insomnia. It’s not an easy time for our Lungs right now! The good news is there are lots of safe, effective herbs that can help us deal with smoke impacts and maintain our respiratory health.

Breathe Easier with Chinese Herbs

Sang Ye (Mulberry leaf) The moist, almost succulent leaves of this tree help to soothe, cool and allay coughs, and promote Lung function. It is known as an herb that replenishes and restores order to the entire body.

Pi Pa ye (Loquat leaf) Loquat leaf is a wonderful remedy to calm dry irritated coughs. Even better, many people here in the East Bay grow it right here in our yards! Research has discovered that this plant has anti-cancer properties.

Bai He (Chinese Lily bulb) is a beautiful medicine to moisten and repair the delicate tissues of the Lungs that are so easily damaged by smoke. It also gently lifts the spirits and promotes a relaxed state of well being.

Mai Men Dong (Ophiopogon) This herb is actually a popular garden plant! You may know it as Mondo
grass. The succulent bulblets of Mai Men Dong are traditionally pounded up to make a sweet refreshing herbal juice, which is drunk to support the Lungs, as well to rejuvenate those who are feeling weak and tired.

Ju Hua (Chrysanthemum) Some of us may be breathing just fine, but the smoke has made our eyes red,
irritated and painful. Chrysanthemum, the “flower of longevity” helps to clear and moisten the eyes, and promotes better visual acuity.

Huang Qin (Chinese Skullcap) An excellent choice to clear the heat and irritation from the body that is created by exposure to smoke. Huang Qin also calms the spirit, treats smoke related headache, and can promote sleep.

These are just a few of the many Chinese Herbs that could help you and your Lungs feel better!
Want to try them for yourself? Book an appointment at our AIMC Berkeley Clinic and get yourself on the path to wellness.

About the Author

Our Pharmacy Director, Athene Eisenhardt, L.Ac, CMP, is a Licensed Acupuncturist, Herbalist, and Sound Healer. She graduated from Five Branches University with a specialty in Herbology and Five Element Acupuncture. She brings great love and enthusiasm for herbs and plants, which began 20 years ago with a BS in Botany, followed many years of professional work experience as a Field Botanist. Read more about Athene & our in-house Pharmacy.