Browse Recipes AYURVEDIC PERSPECTIVE ON MUCOLYTICAn herb that breaks apart mucus, liquefying the mucus.For some individuals (generally Kapha), their mucus is thick and tenacious. Thick mucus can obstruct digestion in the stomach, and prevent healing in the lungs. Breaking up the long molecular strands in mucus liquefies the mucus for easy expectoration and expulsion. Mucolytic herbs can help decongest as well as expectorate mucus. Oxidative stress toughens mucus into a thick gel. Cystic-fibrosis is a genetic condition that causes thick mucus. The spicy sulphur compounds in onions, garlic, horseradish, and radishes generally break up mucus. Astringents precipitate mucus proteins, breaking them up. Examples of astringent mucostatics include Thyme, Sage, Goldenrod, Agrimony, Cinnamon, Goldenseal, and Birthroot. INGREDIENTS WITH MUCOLYTIC QUALITY
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Cayenne Pepper, Chives, Cinnamon, Daikon Radish, Garlic, Garlic (raw), Honey, Horseradish, Radish (raw), Red Onion (raw), Sage, Scallions (Raw), Spanish Black Radish, Thyme (fresh), Wasabi
FIREResembles fire (tejas) in quality - hot, sharp, penetrating, light, dry.Cayenne Pepper, Garlic, Garlic (raw), Green Onion, Honey, Horseradish, Radish (raw), Red Onion (raw), Sage, Scallions (Raw), Spanish Black Radish, Thyme (fresh), Wasabi, Yellow Onion
RAJASICRajasic foods stimulate desire or nervous energy. Red meat, high protein food, garlic and onions stimulate desire. Rajasic foods include chili peppers, coffee, and anything that stimulates movement.Cayenne Pepper, Cinnamon, Daikon Radish, Garlic, Garlic (raw), Honey, Horseradish, Radish (raw), Sage, Scallions (Raw), Spanish Black Radish, Thyme (fresh), Wasabi
EXPECTORANTExpectorants help you eliminate mucus from the lungs. These herbs often work by increasing the quantity of mucus, or thinning the mucus. Expectorants are indicated when phlegm congests the lower respiratory tract.Cayenne Pepper, Cinnamon, Daikon Radish, Garlic, Garlic (raw), Horseradish, Radish (raw), Red Onion (raw), Sage, Scallions (Raw), Spanish Black Radish, Thyme (fresh), Wasabi
DIAPHORETICAn herb that induces sweating, often by dilating blood vessels close to the skin.Cayenne Pepper, Chives, Cinnamon, Garlic, Green Onion, Radish (raw), Sage, Scallions (Raw), Spanish Black Radish, Thyme (fresh), Yellow Onion
ALKALIZINGAn herb or food that makes the urine more alkaline (higher pH). This herbal action can be helpful for a number of inflammatory conditions.SulphurGarlic, Garlic (raw), Green Onion, Horseradish, Radish (raw), Red Onion (raw), Scallions (Raw), Shallots, Spanish Black Radish, Wasabi, Yellow OnionRootsDaikon Radish, Garlic, Garlic (raw), Green Onion, Horseradish, Radish (raw), Red Onion (raw), Shallots, Spanish Black Radish, Wasabi, Yellow OnionDetoxicantCayenne Pepper, Chickweed, Chives, Cinnamon, Garlic, Garlic (raw), Radish (raw), Sage, Scallions (Raw), Spanish Black Radish, Thyme (fresh)Cayenne Pepper, Chives, Cinnamon, Daikon Radish, Garlic, Garlic (raw), Horseradish, Red Onion (raw), Scallions (Raw), Thyme (fresh), Wasabi
BLOOD-MOVERBlood movers improve circulation through these mechanisms: Cardiac stimulation (usually pungents), vasodilation (usually aromatics), or blood thinning (usually bitters).Garlic, Garlic (raw), Green Onion, Horseradish, Radish (raw), Red Onion (raw), Scallions (Raw), Spanish Black Radish, Wasabi, Yellow Onion
REPAIRS-MEMBRANEReduces inflammation and allergen reactivity by restoring epithelial barrier function. Repairs tight cell junction in leaky gut, interstitial cystitis, eczema, asthma, etc.Cayenne Pepper, Daikon Radish, Garlic, Garlic (raw), Horseradish, Radish (raw), Red Onion (raw), Scallions (Raw), Spanish Black Radish, Wasabi
OUTWARDOutward-moving substances stimulate circulation, push heat towards the skin, or are stimulating.Chickweed, Cinnamon, Daikon Radish, Garlic, Garlic (raw), Horseradish, Radish (raw), Scallions (Raw), Spanish Black Radish, Wasabi
DIURETICHerbs that promote urine formation, thereby flushing the kidneys and urinary tract while eliminating any excess water retention. As diuretics reduce water retention, they are often used to reduce blood pressure.PolysaccharidesGarlic, Garlic (raw), Green Onion, Horseradish, Radish (raw), Red Onion (raw), Spanish Black Radish, Wasabi, Yellow OnionCayenne Pepper, Chives, Garlic, Garlic (raw), Horseradish, Red Onion (raw), Scallions (Raw), Thyme (fresh)
VASODILATORA vasodilator is an herb that widens the blood vessels by the relaxation of smooth muscle cells within the vessel walls, thereby increasing circulation systemically or to a local area.Cayenne Pepper, Cinnamon, Daikon Radish, Garlic (raw), Red Onion (raw), Sage, Scallions (Raw), Thyme (fresh)
DECONGESTANTAn herb that reduces mucus production often by restricting blood flow to mucus membranes.Cinnamon, Garlic, Garlic (raw), Honey, Horseradish, Thyme (fresh), Wasabi
ANTIMICROBIALAn agent that kills microorganisms or inhibits their growth. Antimicrobial is an umbrella term that can be broken down into specific categories of target microorganism, such as anti-bacterials, fungals, and virals.Chickweed, Garlic, Garlic (raw), Honey, Sage, Thyme (fresh)
VULNERARYAn herb used for the treatment of wounds (antiulcer, connective tissue tonic).Daikon Radish, Garlic (raw), Red Onion (raw), Sage, Thyme (fresh)
BRONCHODILATORAn herb that encourages the widening or opening of the lung airways. They are helpful in wheezing and asthma.Cinnamon, Horseradish, Sage, Wasabi
ANALGESICPain reliever, reduces pain without eliminating sensation. Also known as anodyne.Cayenne Pepper, Chickweed, Daikon Radish
ANTI-INFLAMMATORYReduces inflammation in the body. Different herbs and carriers target different body systems.Chickweed, Cinnamon, Honey
DEMULCENTHerbs that coat or form a soothing film over a mucous membrane, relieving minor pain and inflammation of the membrane.Honey
ANTITUSSIVECough suppressant, particularly for dry coughs or a tickle in your throat.Cayenne Pepper, Cinnamon, Daikon Radish, Garlic, Garlic (raw), Honey, Horseradish, Radish (raw), Sage, Scallions (Raw), Spanish Black Radish, Thyme (fresh), Wasabi
HOTHot is identified by increased body temperature, metabolism, or inflammation.Cayenne Pepper, Chickweed, Daikon Radish, Garlic (raw), Honey, Horseradish, Radish (raw), Red Onion (raw), Sage, Scallions (Raw), Spanish Black Radish, Wasabi
CLEARClear refers to anything that cleanses or flushes out wastes, or that digests ama.Chickweed, Daikon Radish, Garlic, Garlic (raw), Honey, Horseradish, Radish (raw), Red Onion (raw), Scallions (Raw), Spanish Black Radish, Wasabi
LIQUEFIEDSubstances that thin fluids (lower viscosity of blood plasma). These may include blood thinners or mucolytic herbs.Cayenne Pepper, Chickweed, Daikon Radish, Garlic (raw), Honey, Horseradish, Radish (raw), Sage, Spanish Black Radish, Thyme (fresh), Wasabi
MOBILEMobile refers to anything that stimulates the nervous system, muscles, or activity.Cayenne Pepper, Cinnamon, Garlic, Green Onion, Horseradish, Thyme (fresh), Wasabi, Yellow Onion
EASYEasy refers to anything easy to digest, or digests quickly.Cayenne Pepper, Chickweed, Cinnamon, Honey, Horseradish, Wasabi
LIGHTLightness is identified by reduced weight.Chickweed, Daikon Radish, Honey, Thyme (fresh)
DRYDry is identified by lack of moisture, lack of fat, or anything that causes diuresis.Radish (raw), Spanish Black Radish
DIFFICULTDifficult refers to anything that is difficult to digest, or takes a long time to digest.Garlic
HEAVYHeavy is identified by sedation, sluggishness, or increased weight.Cinnamon
GOOEYGooey is identified by anything gelatinous (such as oatmeal), or by mucus congestion.Chickweed
COLDCold refers to anything that reduces body temperature, metabolism, and blood flow.Cayenne Pepper, Chives, Cinnamon, Daikon Radish, Garlic, Garlic (raw), Horseradish, Radish (raw), Red Onion (raw), Sage, Scallions (Raw), Spanish Black Radish, Thyme (fresh), Wasabi
PUNGENTPungency is characterized by irritation, or sharp, spicy foods that irritate the mouth such as black pepper.Chickweed, Garlic, Horseradish, Radish (raw), Sage, Scallions (Raw), Spanish Black Radish, Wasabi
BITTERBitter is disagreeable and stimulates rejection. It is a strong taste often associated with black coffee, dark chocolate, and most salad greens.Cinnamon, Garlic, Green Onion, Honey, Red Onion (raw), Scallions (Raw), Yellow Onion
SWEETSweet refers to anything builds tissue, including macronutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins and fats.Chives, Cinnamon, Garlic (raw), Sage, Scallions (Raw), Thyme (fresh)
AROMATICHerbs or spices with volatile essential oils that present strong aromas. Aromatic oils shock, refresh and numb tissue, with the end result of relaxing, opening and clearing stagnant fluids in tissues.Daikon Radish, Garlic (raw), Horseradish, Radish (raw), Scallions (Raw), Wasabi
ACRIDAcrid taste is a combination of bitter and pungent tastes. Example include radish, turnip, and coffee.Cinnamon, Honey, Sage, Thyme (fresh)
ASTRINGENTAstringency is characterized by constriction, drawing together, or drying.Chickweed, Daikon Radish, Radish (raw), Spanish Black Radish
BLANDBland means doesn't have much taste. In Chinese medicine, bland taste refers to afood without little macronutrients, such as cabbage, radish or bok choy.Scallions (Raw)
CRUNCHYMakes an audible noise when you eat them. Can provide fun texture variation.Garlic (raw)
MUSKYHave an earthy smell to them, such as mushrooms.Chickweed
SALTYSalty refers to anything with salt, or high mineral content.HERBS & SUPPLEMENTS WITH MUCOLYTIC QUALITY
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Neutral (Tridoshic)IncompleteCowslip Gumweed Iceland Moss Thallus Myrrh Patchouli Leaf Powder Soapwort Yerba Manza Agrimony, Bromelain, Echinacea, Geranium, Goldenrod, Goldenseal, Licorice Ghee (9oz), Licorice Root (Yastimadhu), Mullein, Myrrh, Patchouli Leaf Powder, Plantain Leaf, Sandalwood, Yerba Manza
VULNERARYAn herb used for the treatment of wounds (antiulcer, connective tissue tonic).Chest Rub with Essential Oils, Epsom Salt Bath, Gargling saltwater, Goldenrod, Gumweed, Hot Bath, Hot Shower, Humidifier, Inhale Steam, Licorice Ghee (9oz), Licorice Root (Yastimadhu), Plantain Leaf, Solomon's Seal, Vasaka / Vasa
EXPECTORANTExpectorants help you eliminate mucus from the lungs. These herbs often work by increasing the quantity of mucus, or thinning the mucus. Expectorants are indicated when phlegm congests the lower respiratory tract.Agrimony, Echinacea, Geranium, Goldenrod, Goldenseal, Inhale Steam, Licorice Ghee (9oz), Licorice Root (Yastimadhu), Lungwort Lichen Thallus, Mullein, Plantain Leaf, Vasaka / Vasa
ANTI-INFLAMMATORYReduces inflammation in the body. Different herbs and carriers target different body systems.Chest Rub with Essential Oils, Elder flower, Epsom Salt Bath, Goldenseal, Hot Bath, Hot Shower, Humidifier, Inhale Steam, Plantain Leaf, Sniff raw onions, chopped, Vasaka / Vasa
DECONGESTANTAn herb that reduces mucus production often by restricting blood flow to mucus membranes.Chest Rub with Essential Oils, Epsom Salt Bath, Gumweed, Hot Bath, Hot Shower, Humidifier, Inhale Steam, Mullein, Sniff raw onions, chopped, Vasaka / Vasa
BRONCHODILATORAn herb that encourages the widening or opening of the lung airways. They are helpful in wheezing and asthma.Geranium, Humidifier, Inhale Steam, Licorice Ghee (9oz), Licorice Root (Yastimadhu), Lungwort Lichen Thallus, Mullein, Plantain Leaf, Solomon's Seal
DEMULCENTHerbs that coat or form a soothing film over a mucous membrane, relieving minor pain and inflammation of the membrane.Chest Rub with Essential Oils, Echinacea, Goldenseal, Licorice Ghee (9oz), Licorice Root (Yastimadhu), Lungwort Lichen Thallus, Plantain Leaf, Vasaka / Vasa
ANTIMICROBIALAn agent that kills microorganisms or inhibits their growth. Antimicrobial is an umbrella term that can be broken down into specific categories of target microorganism, such as anti-bacterials, fungals, and virals.Humidifier, Inhale Steam, Licorice Ghee (9oz), Licorice Root (Yastimadhu), Lungwort Lichen Thallus, Mullein, Plantain Leaf, Vasaka / Vasa
ANTITUSSIVECough suppressant, particularly for dry coughs or a tickle in your throat.Agrimony, Bromelain, Elder flower, Geranium, Goldenrod, Goldenseal, Patchouli Leaf Powder, Vasaka / Vasa
DIURETICHerbs that promote urine formation, thereby flushing the kidneys and urinary tract while eliminating any excess water retention. As diuretics reduce water retention, they are often used to reduce blood pressure.Echinacea, Elder flower, Epsom Salt Bath, Hot Bath, Hot Shower, Inhale Steam, Patchouli Leaf Powder, Sniff raw onions, chopped
DIAPHORETICAn herb that induces sweating, often by dilating blood vessels close to the skin.Chest Rub with Essential Oils, Epsom Salt Bath, Goldenrod, Hot Bath, Hot Shower, Inhale Steam, Myrrh, Sniff raw onions, chopped
VASODILATORA vasodilator is an herb that widens the blood vessels by the relaxation of smooth muscle cells within the vessel walls, thereby increasing circulation systemically or to a local area.Cypress Essential Oil - 1/3 oz, Echinacea, Elder flower, Geranium, Licorice Ghee (9oz), Licorice Root (Yastimadhu), Mullein
ANALGESICPain reliever, reduces pain without eliminating sensation. Also known as anodyne.Agrimony, Birthroot, Geranium, Goldenseal, Mullein, Plantain Leaf, Solomon's Seal
HEMOSTATICAn herb that stops bleeding.Chest Rub with Essential Oils, Epsom Salt Bath, Goldenrod, Hot Bath, Sniff raw onions, chopped
FIREResembles fire (tejas) in quality - hot, sharp, penetrating, light, dry.Epsom Salt Bath, Goldenrod, Hot Bath, Sniff raw onions, chopped
BLOOD-MOVERBlood movers improve circulation through these mechanisms: Cardiac stimulation (usually pungents), vasodilation (usually aromatics), or blood thinning (usually bitters).Echinacea, Goldenrod, Sniff raw onions, chopped
OUTWARDOutward-moving substances stimulate circulation, push heat towards the skin, or are stimulating.N-acetylcysteine (NAC)
REPAIRS-MEMBRANEReduces inflammation and allergen reactivity by restoring epithelial barrier function. Repairs tight cell junction in leaky gut, interstitial cystitis, eczema, asthma, etc.Sniff raw onions, chopped
RAJASICRajasic foods stimulate desire or nervous energy. Red meat, high protein food, garlic and onions stimulate desire. Rajasic foods include chili peppers, coffee, and anything that stimulates movement.Chest Rub with Essential Oils, Cypress Essential Oil - 1/3 oz, Echinacea, Epsom Salt Bath, Goldenrod, Goldenseal, Hot Bath, Hot Shower, Inhale Steam, Sniff raw onions, chopped
CLEARClear refers to anything that cleanses or flushes out wastes, or that digests ama.Bromelain, Chest Rub with Essential Oils, Epsom Salt Bath, Gargling saltwater, Hot Bath, Hot Shower, Humidifier, Inhale Steam, Sniff raw onions, chopped, Solomon's Seal
LIQUEFIEDSubstances that thin fluids (lower viscosity of blood plasma). These may include blood thinners or mucolytic herbs.Echinacea, Elder flower, Goldenseal, Licorice Ghee (9oz), Licorice Root (Yastimadhu), Lungwort Lichen Thallus, Plantain Leaf, Solomon's Seal, Vasaka / Vasa
COLDCold refers to anything that reduces body temperature, metabolism, and blood flow.Epsom Salt Bath, Geranium, Goldenrod, Hot Bath, Hot Shower, Inhale Steam, Patchouli Leaf Powder
HOTHot is identified by increased body temperature, metabolism, or inflammation.Licorice Ghee (9oz), Licorice Root (Yastimadhu), Mullein, Plantain Leaf, Solomon's Seal
GOOEYGooey is identified by anything gelatinous (such as oatmeal), or by mucus congestion.Cypress Essential Oil - 1/3 oz, Licorice Ghee (9oz), Licorice Root (Yastimadhu)
HEAVYHeavy is identified by sedation, sluggishness, or increased weight.Echinacea, Goldenseal, Myrrh
DRYDry is identified by lack of moisture, lack of fat, or anything that causes diuresis.Cypress Essential Oil - 1/3 oz, Echinacea, Goldenseal
MOBILEMobile refers to anything that stimulates the nervous system, muscles, or activity.Goldenrod
LIGHTLightness is identified by reduced weight.Goldenseal
EASYEasy refers to anything easy to digest, or digests quickly.Agrimony, Birthroot, Geranium, Goldenrod, Goldenseal, Lungwort Lichen Thallus, Mullein, Plantain Leaf, Vasaka / Vasa
ASTRINGENTAstringency is characterized by constriction, drawing together, or drying.Chest Rub with Essential Oils, Echinacea, Epsom Salt Bath, Geranium, Goldenrod, Hot Bath, Hot Shower, Inhale Steam, Sniff raw onions, chopped
PUNGENTPungency is characterized by irritation, or sharp, spicy foods that irritate the mouth such as black pepper.Agrimony, Echinacea, Geranium, Goldenrod, Goldenseal, Lungwort Lichen Thallus, Plantain Leaf, Vasaka / Vasa
BITTERBitter is disagreeable and stimulates rejection. It is a strong taste often associated with black coffee, dark chocolate, and most salad greens.Chest Rub with Essential Oils, Cypress Essential Oil - 1/3 oz, Echinacea, Goldenrod, Inhale Steam, Patchouli Leaf Powder
AROMATICHerbs or spices with volatile essential oils that present strong aromas. Aromatic oils shock, refresh and numb tissue, with the end result of relaxing, opening and clearing stagnant fluids in tissues.Geranium, Licorice Ghee (9oz), Licorice Root (Yastimadhu), Lungwort Lichen Thallus, Solomon's Seal
SWEETSweet refers to anything builds tissue, including macronutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins and fats.Echinacea, Lungwort Lichen Thallus, Plantain Leaf
SALTYSalty refers to anything with salt, or high mineral content.Echinacea
ACRIDAcrid taste is a combination of bitter and pungent tastes. Example include radish, turnip, and coffee.Myrrh
RESINOUSResinous substances often contain sap in them, such as rosemary, or herbs such as cedar, frankincense, and guggulu.Cypress Essential Oil - 1/3 oz
MUSKYHave an earthy smell to them, such as mushrooms.Respiratory HealthChest Rub with Essential Oils, Echinacea, Elder flower, Epsom Salt Bath, Gargling saltwater, Hot Bath, Hot Shower, Humidifier, Inhale Steam, Licorice Ghee (9oz), Licorice Root (Yastimadhu), Mullein, Myrrh, Plantain Leaf, Sniff raw onions, chopped, Vasaka / VasaHeart Circulation BloodChest Rub with Essential Oils, Epsom Salt Bath, Goldenrod, Hot Bath, Sniff raw onions, choppedCypress Essential Oil - 1/3 oz, Geranium
SKIN-CAREIncludes skin care, and anything that nourishes epithelial membranes (of digestive, respiratory, urinary tract, blood vessels, etc).Hot Bath
ANTI-AGINGGeriatric conditions typically involve low agni / metabolism, poor circulation, weakness & debility, muscle weakening, poor digestion, a drop in sex hormones, and connective tissue degradation in bones & skin.OTHER HERB ACTIONS AFFECTING RESPIRATORY-HEALTHHELPFUL FOR*'Mucolytic' may be helpful for these symptoms and causes below.Blood and CirculationMucolytic Recipes Listed By StrengthBrowse By Popularity
About the Author John Immel, the founder of Joyful Belly, teaches people how to have a healthy diet and lifestyle with Ayurveda biocharacteristics. His approach to Ayurveda is clinical, yet exudes an ease which many find enjoyable and insightful. John also directs Joyful Belly's School of Ayurveda, offering professional clinical training in Ayurveda for over 15 years.John's interest in Ayurveda and specialization in digestive tract pathology was inspired by a complex digestive disorder acquired from years of international travel, as well as public service work in South Asia. John's commitment to the detailed study of digestive disorders reflects his zeal to get down to the roots of the problem. His hope and belief in the capacity of each & every client to improve their quality of life is nothing short of a personal passion. John's creativity in the kitchen and delight in cooking for others comes from his family oriented upbringing. In addition to his certification in Ayurveda, John holds a bachelor's degree in mathematics from Harvard University. John enjoys sharing Ayurveda within the context of his Catholic roots, and finds Ayurveda gives him an opportunity to participate in the healing mission of the Church. Jesus expressed God's love by feeding and healing the sick. That kindness is the fundamental ministry of Ayurveda as well. Outside of work, John enjoys spending time with his wife and 6 kids, and pursuing his love of theology, philosophy, and language. |
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