Herbs and the Respiratory system Flashcards
How many breaths do we normally take a minute?
10 - 15 times a minute
Which parts of the respiratory tract is included in the upper tract?
The upper respiratory tract includes the nasal cavity, sinuses, pharynx, vocal cords, and larynx.
Which parts of the lungs make up the lower respiratory tract?
The lower respiratory tract is composed of the trachea, or “windpipe,” the bronchi and bronchioles, the alveoli (the exchange surface of the lungs where gases are transferred from the blood to the air and vice versa), the lungs themselves, and the bones and muscles that assist in ventilation.
What coordinates the performance of the daphragm and the intercostal muscles during the act of breathing?
Specific nerve sites known as respiratory centers coordinate the performance of the diaphragm and the muscles that move the ribs. The respiratory centers act in response to changes in oxygen, carbon dioxide, and acid levels in the blood.
How many sets of ribs do we have?
12
What are the pleural sacs?
Two structures, called pleural sacs, hold each lung within the thorax. The pleural sacs are composed of pleural fluid (a lubricating film) sandwiched between two membranes.
The pleural fluid allows for movement of the thorax and the lungs, while at the same time bonding the pleural sac to the thoracic wall. This can be compared to two glass microscope slides held together by a drop of water, but easily sliding against each other without friction. In this way, as the lungs inflate and deflate, they stay in place without friction.
Which part of the airway is shared by food, liquid, and air.
pharynx,
What is the movement of air between the environment and aveoli called?
ventilation
What is the function of the upper respiratory track?
To condition air for entry into the lungs
warming and moistening of air:
The lungs are very delicate and sensitive to temperature. Air is warmed to body temperature as it passes through the upper respiratory tract. The lungs must also remain moist to function properly. Water vapor is added to air by the upper respiratory tract so that it has 100% humidity by the time it reaches the lungs.
Cleansing:
Foreign material and pathogens, including inorganic particles, viruses, and bacteria, are also filtered out before air reaches the lungs. The first line of defense is mucociliary clearance. When particles and bits of debris enter the respiratory system, they are carried upward by the wave-like movement of mucus-covered cilia—tiny, finger-like extensions of specific cells lining the respiratory tract (from the nasal passageways to the bronchioles).
Waste removal:
Particles are carried upward by the organized movement of the cilia, until they reach the pharynx, where they are swallowed, usually without us even noticing. The mucus covering the cilia contains immunoglobulins that provide further defense against pathogens.
Explain the pathway for inspiration
Nose - Nasal Conchae - pharynx -larynx - Trachea -Bronchi - Bronchioles - Alveoli - capilliries
What are the two types of Alveolar cells and what are their functions?
There are two types of alveolar cells. Type I alveolar cells are very thin and are in direct contact with capillaries, allowing gases to readily move between the alveoli and the capillaries that wrap around the alveoli. In fact, capillaries cover 80-90% of the surface area of the alveoli (Silverthorn, 2004). In this way, the lungs are deeply connected to our cardiovascular system. This allows for rapid exchange of gases.
Type II alveolar cells produce a chemical called surfactant that reduces surface tension in lung tissues and allows us to breathe comfortably. The alveoli contain no muscle cells, but are composed of elastin fibers, which allow them to recoil easily as the lungs expand and contract.
What are Alveoli?
Small membraneous sacs at the end of the bronchioles that allow for gass exchange between the lungs and the blood.
Explain pulmunary circulation
The lungs sit next to and around the heart, continuously receiving deoxygenated blood from the right ventricle of the heart. The pulmonary trunk, a vessel that originates from the right ventricle, divides into two pulmonary arteries, delivering blood to each lung. Once gas exchange occurs in the juncture between capillaries and alveoli, oxygenated blood then returns to the left atrium of the heart via pulmonary veins.
What is a concentration gradient?
A concentration gradient occurs when there are unequal amounts of a substance in two locations. Substances tend to move from areas of high concentration to low concentration
What is the role of concentration gradient in helping us breath?
The same thing happens in our bodies and in the case of the respiratory system, a concentration gradient is created by the movement of the thorax. When the chest expands, there is more volume and the same amount of air, creating low pressure, and air flows into our nose and down into our lungs (inhalation). When the chest cavity contracts, there is less volume for the same amount of air, creating higher pressure, and air flows out (exhalation).
Another concentration gradient allows oxygen and carbon dioxide to flow between alveoli and capillaries. When low-oxygen blood in the capillaries from the right ventricle comes into contact with high-oxygen alveoli, oxygen moves into the blood. At the same time, carbon dioxide moves into the alveoli from the blood.
How do the alveoli adjust to blood flow and ventilation
The body’s oxygen requirement depends on activity level. When gas exchange occurs at the alveolar-capillary interface, there must be adequate blood flow to pick up all of the available oxygen. The body can adapt to changes in rate of ventilation and blood flow by engaging varying numbers of alveoli and capillary beds.
Capillaries in the lungs are unique in their ability to collapse when not in use. When a person is at rest, the capillaries at the top of the lungs are not in use, and the capillaries at the base of the lung take over. During exercise, blood pressure rises and upper capillary beds open, allowing for more blood to be oxygenated.
At the same time, alveoli expand and contract to match blood flow and ventilation. When more oxygen is needed, alveoli expand for increased oxygenation of blood across their membrane. In this way, the body matches air flow to blood flow to ensure that the blood is fully oxygenated at all times.
Which protein is responsible for carrying oxygen in the blood?
hemoglobin
How many molecules of oxygen can one red blood cell transport?
4
What percentage of oxygen is diffused into the blood plasma?
2%
Which parts of the nervous system controls breathing?
Breathing is regulated by both the autonomic (involuntary) and the somatic (voluntary) nervous systems. We are able to consciously control our own breathing because the muscles used to expand the lungs are skeletal (the diaphragm and others). Skeletal muscles are controlled by groups of neurons in the brainstem in a regular, rhythmic way unconsciously. These same skeletal muscles can also be controlled with conscious thought. This is why we can take a “deep breath” or hold our breath while underwater. At the same time, alveoli and capillaries are under autonomic control. We cannot control the expansion or collapse of capillaries and alveoli in the lungs. Thus, there is no single center or mechanism responsible for breathing and respiration. Instead, it is a complex network drawing on many different areas of the nervous system
What is the vagus nerve?
The vagus nerve is the primary nerve responsible for regulating the parasympathetic nervous system. The vagus nerve is actually an extensive network that spans from the medulla in the brain down through the neck and connects with the lungs, heart, liver, stomach, spleen, pancreas, kidney, proximal two-thirds of the colon, and the entire small intestine. It connects nerve fibers with most of the internal organs.
How can we shift from a sympathetic state to a parasympathetic state?
Conscious deep breathing allows us to shift our body from a stress response (sympathetic) to a relaxed state (parasympathetic). Because the lungs are connected to the heart and digestive organs by the vagus nerve, breathing deeply may also relax our other internal organs and have a positive effect on digestion, heart rate, and blood pressure
What is heart rate variabillity?
A measure how well and harmoniously all the body’s processes are working together.
Heart rate variability is a measure of the adaptability of the heart and blood vessels. While we think of our heartbeat as relatively steady and regular, it actually changes tempo from moment to moment, adapting to slight changes in breathing and other aspects of our physiology. A more variable heart rate is healthy—it means that our heart is responsive and sensitive to change (Derrickson, 2017).
How many fluctuations in regular HRV?
6 a minute (1 every 10s)
What pathologies correlated with poor HRV?
increased risk for cardiovascular events (stroke, heart attack)
increased risk of Depression
disruptions in sleep
Which herbs restores good HRV?
Aromatic plants:
- Motherwort
- LInden
- Lemon balm
- Lavender
- Lemon grass
Polyphenol rich plants: (bioflavinoids)
- grape (wine)
- berries (blue, hawthorn, goji)
- Arjuna
Adaptogens:
Nightshades: (low dose, toxic plants)
How do tropane alkaloids, found in night shade plants, affect heart rate?
They block the vagus nerve interfering with the parasympathetic response.
This leads to the heart rate speeding up to the point where heart muscle can no longer keep up, resulting in a heart attack.
Paradoxically, in small doses, 1 -2 drops of dilute tincture, administered sub-lingually increased HRV and has a calmin effect.
How much excercise is recommended in order to keep the lungs and heart healthy?
The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute of the National Institutes of Health recommends 30 minutes of moderate exercise 5 days a week to keep the lungs and the rest of the body healthy
Which herb/s have an affinity for alveoli ?
Pleurisy root
Which herb/s have an affinity for bronchial tubes?
Lobelia
Which herb/s have an affinity for the central mucosa of the lungs?
Marshmallow
Mullein
Elecampane
Which herb/s have an affinity for the cilia of the lungs ?
comfrey
mullein
Which herb/s have an affinity for the diaphragm and lung movement?
Lobelia
Which herb/s have an affinity for hemoglobin production?
Nettle
Which herb/s have an affinity for peripheral mucosa?
Marshmallow
Liqorice
Which herb/s have an affinity for the pleural membrane?
Pleurisy root
Which herb/s have an affinity for surface muscles of the chest?
wild lettuce
Which herb/s have an affinity for surfactant secretion?
Astragalus root
Which herb/s have an affinity for Trachea?
Calamus
What is the botanical name for astragalus?
Astragalus – Astragalus membranaceus (Fabaceae)
Which part of astragalus is used?
Root
What are the primary actions of Astragalus?
Adaptogen, antioxidant, antiviral, cardiotonic, hepatic, hypotensive, immunomodulator, kidney tonic
What are the herbal energetics of Astragalus?
Slightly warming and moistening
What are the clinical patterns and uses for Astragalus?
The polysaccharides in astragalus contribute to its immunomodulant action and one of its strengths is the ability to balance both under- and overactive immune function. Not only does astragalus help build immunity where it may be compromised, but this herb can help temper a hyperactive immune response (e.g., allergies and asthma). One study on astragalus (as the active component in an herb and mineral complex supplement) used in allergic rhinitis showed significant therapeutic efficacy to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life, compared to three other control groups, in which there was no change in symptoms (Matkovic et al., 2010).
Herbalist Guido Masé suggests taking astragalus regularly in the fall and winter to strengthen immunity and keep colds, flu, and bronchitis at bay (Masé, 2013). Astragalus possesses antiviral activity, and is active against influenza A, herpes simplex, Coxsackie, hepatitis B, chronic fatigue syndrome, chronic hepatitis, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and several other viruses (Buhner, 2013; Winston & Maimes, 2007).
Astragalus root is also commonly employed where there is shortness of breath or weak lung function. In Chinese medicine, astragalus is a Lung qi tonic used in dry cough, frequent upper respiratory tract infections, and asthma (Winston, 2004). Astragalus is also said to strengthen wei qi, which is responsible for guarding the body, including the lungs, against infection. In elderly patients with acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), serum levels of inflammatory cytokines were lower, and pulmonary function was strengthened in individuals given astragalus root (Jiang et al., 2015).
What are the safety considerations for Astragalus?
Contraindications:
Astragalus should be avoided in states of acute infection as it may cause stagnation or “feed” the illness (Winston & Maimes, 2007).
Herb drug interactions:
Astragalus may increase the effects of corticosteroids and cyclophosphamide in individuals with autoimmune disease (Gardner & McGuffin, 2013).
What is the botanical name for prince seng?
Prince seng – Pseudostellaria heterophylla (Caryophyllaceae)
Which part of prince seng is used?
Root
What are the primary actions of prince seng?
Adaptogen, demulcent, immune tonic, lung tonic
What are the herbal energetics of prince seng?
Warming and moistening
What are the clinical patterns and uses of prince seng?
Tonic for the lungs:
Similar to Asian ginseng, prince seng serves as a moistening and protective tonic, and though it is thought to be less powerful in action, it is not an at-risk plant and may be more sustainably produced.
Sensitive individuals:
Prince seng may also be a more suitable herb for sensitive or depleted individuals who are overstimulated by stronger adaptogens (Winston & Maimes, 2007).
To repair damaged lung tissue from smoking or illness:
Prince seng is a good choice for individuals with weak or damaged lung tissue, such as smokers or those recovering from a prolonged lung infection like pertussis, pneumonia, or bronchitis (Winston & Maimes, 2007). It also moistens the respiratory mucosa, so can be helpful for habitual smokers and those who tend toward dry respiratory conditions. Prince seng can be a boon for those exposed to dry, hot air on a regular basis, such as individuals who heat their homes with wood stoves.
COPD:
Research has demonstrated prince seng’s antitussive and expectorant actions (likely due to the polysaccharide and saponin content of the root). It also has been shown to reduce cytokine expression and improve lung function in COPD (Pang et al., 2011).
What are the safety considerations for prince seng?
Contraidications: Avoid use in individuals with excessive phlegm, diarrhea, indigestion, flatulence, and bloating (Winston & Maimes, 2007).
Drug Herb Interactions: None known
What is the botanical name for Mullein?
Mullein – Verbascum thapsus (Scrophulariaceae)
Which part of Mullein is used?
Leaf
What are the specific actions of Mullein?
Anti-inflammatory, demulcent, expectorant, lung tonic
What are the herbal energetics of Mullein?
Cooling and moistening
What are the clinical patterns and uses of Mullein?
Tonify the lungs
Rich in mucilage and saponins and specifically indicated for the respiratory system, a general tonifying herb for the respiratory system (Hoffmann, 2003; Rose, 2009).
Bronchitis:
mullein is useful for bronchitis and as a gAccording to the Doctrine of Signatures, the hairs covering the surface of mullein leaves mimic the cilia of the respiratory tract (Graves, 2012).
Dry Cough:
Mullein’s expectorant action encourages productive coughing, which aids the body in removing congestion and is thus especially beneficial for dry or non-productive coughing and wheezing (mcdonald, n.d.b).
Weak or dry lymphatic system:
Matthew Wood suggests mullein for dry and irritable coughing that “shakes the frame” but also for dryness and atrophy in the “lymphatic system with poor absorption through the small intestines and weakness in the lymphatics” (Wood, 2004, p. 189).
To clear congestion from the lungs:
In Ayurveda, mullein is considered a sweet, cooling, and pungent herb and it is used to remove kapha dosha that has accumulated in the lungs and lymph (Frawley & Lad, 1993).
There are reports of Native Americans using mullein for catarrh, coughs, colds, lung trouble, and asthma. Some tribes administered it via smoking for these purposes (Moerman, 1998) and this method is sometimes still employed by experienced herbalists to “clear the lungs.”
What are the safety considerations of Mullein?
The numerous hairs covering mullein leaf that make it so invitingly soft can cause irritation, itching, and dermatitis. One should carefully strain mullein infusion and tinctures with a cloth or paper filter to remove any hairs from the liquid before drinking, and resist the temptation to rub the leaves.
Contradindications: None
Drug Herb Interactions: None Known
What is the botanical name for reishi?
Reishi – Ganoderma lucidum (Ganodermataceae) –
Which part of reishi is used?
Mushroom
What are the specific actions of Reishi?
Adaptogen, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, cardioprotective, hepatic, hypotensive, hypolipidemic, immunomodulant, kidney tonic, nervine
What are the herbal energetics of Reishi?
Drying and neutral to warming
What are the clinical patterns and uses for Reishi?
Longevity:
Reishi is a beautiful fungus with a long and venerable history of use in Chinese medicine and other Asian medical traditions. Regional names for reishi provide a hint to its universal use as a life extending herb: reishi means “divine” in the language of Japan, where it is also called mannentake or “10,000-year mushroom”; the Chinese call it ling zhi or “tree of life mushroom”; and in Vietnam, it is called linh chi, “supernatural mushroom.”
To calm the lungs:
Reishi modulates the immune response and is also used to tonify the lungs. It is also said in Chinese medicine to nourish the Heart and calm the shen (Upton, 2006). Given the relationship between the lungs and the heart, this calming action makes sense. It is also apparent in reishi’s relaxing effect on the lungs, where it breaks up phlegm and calms coughing and wheezing (Upton, 2006).
Liver support:
Reishi is anti-inflammatory and bitter, helping the liver in its detoxification processes.
Modulate/Calm the immune system (asthma, autoimmune disease, allergies):
These actions also contributes to reishi’s usefulness for allergies and hyperactive immunity in general. Like astragalus, reishi modulates immune function due in part to its saponin and polysaccharide content (Boh, 2013).
What are the safety considerations for Reishi?
Contraindicaitons: should be avoided by individuals with mushroom allergies (Gardner & McGuffin, 2013).
Drug Herb Interactions: Reishi should be used with caution in individuals taking immunosuppressant, anticoagulant, or antiplatelet medications
Ayurveda: How does air enter into the body?
air is brought into the body through the pranavaha srota, which carries prana vayu, a subdosha of vata dosha.
Ayurveda: What is pranavaha srota?
Pranavaha srota is linked to the respiratory system and possesses great significance on both a physical and subtle level. When we inhale, we are not simply breathing in air molecules; we are also taking in prana, or life force. In fact, according to Ayurveda, the pranavaha srota is responsible for respiration and inhalation as well as sensory perception, memory, intelligence, and the flow of thought (Dass, 2013).
Ayurveda: What is prana?
Prana is carried on the breath, and prana is one of the three great cosmic forces (light, or jyoti, and love, or prema, are the other two). Prana is the energy that gives velocity, direction, animation, and motivation. It is also understood as the primal breath. The movement of energy follows the movement of breath, in that it is constantly moving and changing, just like the ebb and flow of respiration (Frawley, 2000). Thus, to harness one’s breath is to harness one’s energy. Any compromise in the ability to fully and deeply breathe may result in a compromise in energy, vibrancy, and inspiration.
Ayurveda: What governs the act of inhalation, coughing adn sneezing?
The initial act of inhalation is governed by prana vayu, a subdosha of vata dosha. Coughing and sneezing are also acts of prana vayu.
Ayurveda: Which dosha governs the physiology of the lungs and the stomach?
the deeper physiology of the respiratory system is associated with kapha dosha, which rules the stomach and lungs. The watery elements of the respiratory system, which include the mucus of the entire respiratory tract, are a product of kapha dosha.
Ayurveda: Which respiratory disorders are associated with kapha imbalance?
Respiratory disorders that involve excess phlegm and congestion are emblematic of imbalanced kapha dosha.
Ayurveda: Which respiratory disorders are associated with pitta imbalance?
Inflammation, yellow mucus, and acute infection are generally linked to pitta dosha
Ayurveda: Which respiratory disorders are associated with Vatha imbalance?
a dry cough or any type of degenerative, wasting illness would indicate vata excess.
Ayurveda: How can a Vatha imbalance or conditions aggrevate Kapha dosha in the lungs?
a dry, scratchy throat may trigger the body to produce mucus as a mode of protection.
Ayurveda: What can be a likley cause of kapha congestion in the lungs?
congestion in the respiratory system may be indicative of a weak agni (digestive fire) rather than an acute respiratory issue.
Ayurveda: Which herbs can be used to eleviate Vatha disorders of the lungs?
For vata-type respiratory issues that involve wasting, dryness, and shortness of breath, respiratory tonics and demulcent herbs are generally the best option. Herbs such as ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) root, marshmallow (Althaea officinalis) root, and licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) root are good choices.
Ayurveda: Which herbs can be used to eleviate Pitta disorders of the lungs?
When burning sensations, yellow mucus, and intense thirst are present, pitta dosha is generally the culprit. In such cases, cool diaphoretics and antimicrobials are indicated, such as peppermint (Mentha x piperita) leaf, burdock (Arctium lappa) root, yarrow (Achillea millefolium) aerial parts, and elder (Sambucus nigra or S. canadensis) flower.
Ayurveda: Which herbs can be used to eleviate Kapha disorders of the lungs?
When there is abundant clear or white mucus, accompanied by heavy feelings in the chest, nausea, and/or a decrease in appetite, kapha dosha must be managed. In this case, warm, dry herbs and spices should be taken, such as dry ginger (Zingiber officinale) rhizome, pippali (Piper longum) fruit, and chitrak (Plumbago zeylanica) root (Frawley, 2000).
TCM: Which element is associated with the lung?
Metal
TCM: What are the yin/yang pair of the metal elemant
yin: lungs
yang: large intestine
TCM: Healthy lungs promotes healthy …?
healthy respiration, immune function, and qi (vital energy).
TCM: The lungs control … ?
The Lung controls respiration and the formation of qi (vital energy)
Regulation of water metabolism in the body
Immune function (Wei qi), and opening and closing of pores.
TCM: What are symptoms of weak lungs?
experience fatigue, respiratory illness, and other imbalances.
TCM: What is the lungs role in water metabolism?
The Lung also plays a key role in regulating water metabolism in the body and ensures the moisture of all organs and tissues. The descending function of the Lung is said to sprinkle pure fluids downwards to moisten the tissues and organs of the body and to send impure body fluids down to the urinary bladder to be excreted as urine.
TCM: How is the health of the lungs reflected in the skin, and the bodies immunes system?
The Lung also regulates the opening and closing of the pores. Thus, the health of the Lung is reflected in the health and moisture of skin and body hair and in the body’s immune response and ability to stave off external invasion of illness.
TCM: What foods can damage the lungs during flu or colds?
Hot, spicy pungent, drying foods: Peppers, chilli, garlic etc
TCM: What foods strengthens the lungs during flu or colds?
baked pears and apples, cinnamon, and nourishing vegetable soups. These foods will facilitate recovery from coughs and illness that are common in autumn and affect the Lung.
TCM: During which season are the lungs most vulnerable?
The dryness associated with autumn, the Metal season, can injure the Lung in those susceptible to dryness or those who have challenges with their Metal Element or Lung system.
TCM: Which emotions are associated with the lungs?
The Lung is associated with grief and with courage. We are encouraged to grieve appropriately to avoid injuring the Lung and this often requires courage, both to face grief, to grieve, and to let go and move on with life. Qigong is a practice that nourishes the Lung, supports healthy energy and circulation, and promotes calm.
Describe repiratory conditions with Hot/Dry tissue state
Throat/sinuses: Red, Parched, inflamed and tight
breathing/Swallowing: difficult
Eyes: Red
Sweating: little to none
Cough: dry & unproductive
if mucus: yellow, brown, sticky
Pain: throat and lungs
Craving: cold drinks
Describe repiratory conditions with Hot/Damp tissue state
tongue: inflamed, yellow or orange coat
throat/tonsils: inflamed and red
cough: wet cough
mucus: Excessive, clear or yellow
Fever: may be present
Sinuses: may be runny
Describe repiratory conditions with Cold/Dry tissue state
Mouth/tongue: pale and dry
Swallowing: difficult
Breathing: Wheezing
expectorating: difficult
mucus: clear and white
pain: dull in chest/ throat
craving: hot liquids
fever: cold/chills
Describe repiratory conditions with Cold/Damp tissue state
Tongue: Pale, wet, throthy white
Cough: productive, wet
Mucus: white
Pain: Dull in chest
Craving: heat
other: cold/chills
What is the common cold?
The common cold is an acute viral infection of the respiratory tract without a fever. There may be inflammation in any or all of the upper respiratory organs.
How long does the common cold last?
Colds typically last 3 to 7 days
Why should you treat the common cold on the first sign of symptoms?
and are normally self-limiting and not serious, but when left untended can invite more serious problems such as bacterial infections of the respiratory system. Thus, it is important to address a cold at the first sign of symptoms.
Is the common cold always energetically cold?
Contrary to what the name implies, a cold may not always be energetically cold in nature and can manifest as any of the energetic profiles.
