Description of the plant lungwort
It occurs naturally throughout Europe and Western Asia. Due to its appearance, it is grown in many gardens as an ornamental plant. In nature, it occurs in some varieties, depending on the species, the appearance may vary.
Lungwort (Pulmonaria officinalis) is known primarily for its healing properties and gives a unique character to gardens and glades. It looks beautiful in the company of various types of primroses. Grows best in shade and moist soil. Excess sun causes wilting and rapid drying of lungwort leaves.
They are perennial, frost-resistant and beautiful. Lungworts, judging by the name, are honey-bearing. The bushes reach a height of up to 30 cm with short rhizomes and hairy shoots.
Despite the differences in appearance, the effectiveness of the treatment of various diseases with lungwort is similar. However, for the production of medicines or nutritional supplements, the most commonly used spotted lungwort, which is the most common type of this plant.
Lungwort flowers bloom in early spring – from March to May, change color from red-pink to purple and blue, depending on the stage of development of the plant. The flowers are relatively small in size, about 1.5 cm long. They are collected in inflorescences.
Medicinal properties of lungwort
The plant contains many useful substances for the human body. Lungwort is used as a medicine for various respiratory diseases. Lungwort also has a bactericidal, anti-inflammatory, diuretic, astringent, antiseptic, hemostatic and enveloping effect. Improves immune function.
Additional Information! Due to the content of many vitamins and minerals, lungwort, when used correctly, helps maintain an appropriate level of health. This plant has a rich chemical composition. Due to this, they can be attributed to medicinal herbs with a healing effect.
The most important compounds are:
- vitamins (A, B, C, E);
- anthocyanins;
- minerals;
- flavonoids;
- mucus with expectorant effect;
- phenolic acids;
- tannins.
The plant also contains: rosmarinic acid, lignans, menisdaurine and silicon dioxide. All of these substances have anti-inflammatory effects. The leaves of the plant contain alkaloids, saponins (chemical compounds used in expectorants or antifungals),
Most of these compounds are found in the roots or stems of the plant. Due to these properties, lungwort is used as a remedy for bronchial diseases, pneumonia, coughs and other respiratory diseases. Lungwort, is part of natural medicines that help relieve coughing attacks.
Lungwort acts as a soothing and enveloping remedy for bronchitis and laryngitis, lung and pleural infections or throat irritation.
What is the best way to use lungwort? There are many ways to take this herb. This depends on the health impact one wants to achieve during therapy.
For the relief of chronic coughs, upper respiratory tract infections, and infections, appropriate doses of lungwort infusion should be consumed as recommended on the product package. One of the recipes that can be used: 1 tbsp. pour a spoonful of grass with 200 ml of boiling water. Leave to infuse under the lid for 20 minutes, cool. Drink 100 ml 3 times a day to soothe infections.
Application in cosmetics
Lungwort is also used in cosmetics. It has an astringent effect on the skin, accelerates wound healing and has antibacterial properties.
Note! Lungwort extract improves skin appearance and reduces wrinkles. Can be used as part of home face care products.
The high content of B vitamins contributes to the restoration of hair and the good condition of the skin and nails. The plant is additionally rich in soluble silica, which has a positive effect on the healthy appearance of the skin, hair and nails, the proper development of cartilage and bones. Moreover, silicon prevents the accumulation of aluminum in the body, which protects brain function.
Lungwort is great for washing the skin of the face, especially with acne. The herb has a soothing, anti-inflammatory and moisturizing effect, which is why it is often used in cosmetics to soothe skin lesions, i.e. acne. In addition, lungwort can be found in skin moisturizers. In addition to creams, lungwort is also found in shower gels and bath foams.
Lungwort can be used externally – prepare a decoction. Pour 1-2 tbsp. spoons of herbs with a glass of warm water, bring everything to a boil and cook for about 10 minutes. Leave to cool.
Contraindications
Contraindications include only individual intolerance. There are no other contraindications. It is extremely important to avoid side effects from using herbs that they should be taken according to the instructions included with the product package. Excessive consumption of the plant can cause stomach problems. It should be remembered that any overdose, even with natural preparations, can lead to poor health and require a doctor’s consultation.
