Health Guide

Lungwort

Meet Lungwort (*Pulmonaria officinalis*), a distinctively spotted leaf plant that has been a staple in traditional European herbalism for centuries. Often nicknamed 'Mary's Tears' or 'Spotted Dog', this herb isn't just a pretty face in the garden; it’s a powerhouse of beneficial compounds, specifically mucilage and allantoin. Think of Lungwort as nature’s soothing agent. Historically, it was named based on the 'Doctrine of Signatures'—its leaves resemble lung tissue, hinting at its traditional use for respiratory health. Today, we know it works by forming a protective, gel-like layer over irritated mucous membranes, making it a go-to for soothing dry coughs and scratchy throats naturally.

Evidence BasedDietary Supplement

VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Mechanism of Action: Mucilage Protection

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis

Protective Layer Formation

Body System →

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

Soothes Respiratory Discomfort: Acts as a demulcent to coat the throat and airways.
Supports Digestive Lining: Helps calm irritation in the stomach and intestines.
Topical Skin Aid: Promotes wound healing and reduces inflammation on the skin.

Deep Dive

Lungwort's magic lies in its high mucilage content. Imagine a slippery, soothing gel—that is what coats your throat when you drink Lungwort tea, providing immediate relief from dry, tickly coughs. It also contains allantoin, a compound known for its ability to stimulate cell regeneration. This makes it excellent not just for internal inflammation (like a sore throat or mild gastritis) but also for topical application on minor cuts or scrapes to speed up healing. It's a gentle, multi-purpose herb that supports the body's barrier systems.

Natural Food Sources

Unlike Vitamin C or Magnesium, Lungwort is a specific herb not found in standard fruits or vegetables. It is primarily consumed as a wild edible green or a tea infusion.

Food/Source	Form	Preparation
Lungwort Leaves	Fresh or Dried	Steep 1-2 tsp in hot water for 10 mins.
Lungwort Greens	Fresh	Sauté like spinach (remove tough stems).

Supplementation

Usage: Lungwort is most commonly consumed as a tea. For respiratory support, drink 1–3 cups daily. For digestive soothing, drink 30 minutes before meals.

Who should take it? It is ideal for anyone suffering from dry, hacking coughs, throat irritation, or mild digestive upset. It is a gentle remedy suitable for most adults.

Top Food Sources

Lungwort Tea

Standard infusion (1-2 tsp/cup)

Sautéed Lungwort

Cooked greens (mucilage reduces with heat)

Fresh Leaf Juice

Cold pressed (potent mucilage)

Frequently Asked Questions

It is generally considered gentle, but due to limited research, consult a pediatrician before giving Lungwort tea to children, especially for persistent coughs.

It is best for dry, unproductive coughs. For wet coughs, herbs like Thyme or Ivy leaf are usually preferred.

It has a mild, slightly earthy, and cucumber-like flavor. It is often blended with Peppermint or Lemon Balm for better taste.

Yes! It is a shade-loving perennial that thrives in moist soil. The leaves can be harvested young in spring for tea or cooking.

Safety & Side Effects

Safety First

Pregnancy/Breastfeeding: Avoid use unless cleared by a healthcare provider, as safety data is limited.
Allergies: Individuals allergic to plants in the Boraginaceae family (like Borage or Comfrey) may react to Lungwort.
Surgical Procedures: Stop using Lungwort at least 2 weeks before scheduled surgery due to potential effects on blood sugar and blood pressure.
Contaminants: Due to its fuzzy leaves, Lungwort can trap pollen and heavy metals. Ensure you source it from clean, verified areas if foraging.

Scientific References

[1]European Medicines Agency. (2013). Assessment report on Pulmonaria officinalis L., herba.
[2]Gruner, K. (1999). The Compressibility of Plant Mucilage.
[3]Wichtl, M. (2004). Herbal Drugs and Phytopharmaceuticals.