The ongoing devastating fires in California have severely impacted air quality due to potentially toxic fumes, leaving many vulnerable to respiratory irritation. Whether you're directly affected or know someone who is, here are some ways to support + protect respiratory health during this challenging time.

Here in the northeast we leaned on these remedies during the widespread Canada wildfires last summer that caused air quality conditions and many have found these recommendations helpful during other past wildfire seasons.

These recommendations are also helpful for lingering coughs from upper respiratory infections that have been a common ailment this cold and flu season.

🌱Respiratory Support

• Bronchial Cough Formula: Our soothing lung tonic features herbs like lobelia, osha, thyme, and elecampane. It’s designed to ease chest and nasal congestion, soothe irritated airways, and calm respiratory inflammation. We recommend a dropperfull twice daily for extra support during smoky days or more often as needed for acute or lingering coughs of any kind.

• Ayurvedic Nasya Oil: Nasya oil has its roots in ancient Ayurvedic practices, where it has been used for centuries to cleanse and nourish the nasal passages, supporting clear breathing, mental clarity, and overall respiratory health. By massaging a couple of drops inside your nostrils, you help strengthen the nasal mucosa barrier, giving added protection from environmental pollutants. It’s a simple but powerful daily practice. We recommend doing this a couple of times daily for smoke exposure.

• Golden Lotus Lung and Throat Herbal Lozenges: These are a favorite for calming spastic coughs and protecting the upper respiratory system. Their cooling and moistening properties are perfect for keeping airways clear. Pop one in if you’re outdoors or right after exposure to smoky air.

• Breathe - Lung Supportive Tea: A soothing and strengthening lung tea featuring mullein, known for its soothing and expectorant properties, and astragalus + reishi that nourish respiratory function and mucosal tissue. This blend also includes supportive herbs like nettles, oats, holy basil, and ginger which provide additional anti-inflammatory, demulcent, and relaxing benefits.

  Sipping on this tea gives your body a double boost – staying hydrated while delivering these powerful, lung-loving herbs. Hydration is especially crucial during smoke exposure or viral infections as it thins mucus, making it easier for your body to clear airways, and supports overall immune resilience.

• NAC: A powerful antioxidant that supports lung health by reducing inflammation, thinning mucus for easier clearance, and protecting against the oxidative damage caused by smoke inhalation.