Best Herbal Steam Blends Safe for Asthma That Actually Soothe Lungs

Last Updated on June 10, 2025 by Bianca Nala

If you or someone in your family has asthma, you probably know how tricky it can be to manage. One moment you’re feeling fine, the next you’re dealing with tightness in your chest or a coughing fit that seems to come out of nowhere. While medications and inhalers are essential tools, many people look for natural ways to support their breathing too—like herbal steam therapy. But when asthma is involved, safety is key. Let’s take a closer look at how to use herbal steam blends in a way that’s safe, gentle, and actually helpful.

What Is Asthma, and Why Does It React to Scents?

Asthma is a chronic condition that causes the airways in your lungs to become inflamed and narrow. This makes it harder to breathe and can trigger coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath. Asthma symptoms can be brought on by allergens, cold air, stress, and, importantly—strong smells or airborne particles.

That’s why using essential oils or herbs in steam can be risky if you’re not careful. While some herbs may ease inflammation and help open airways, others might be too strong or irritating. The key is to choose gentle, asthma-friendly herbs and always test things out slowly.

Safe Herbal Steam Blends for Asthma Relief

Before we get into specific blends, here’s a quick tip: always use fresh or dried herbs, not essential oils, for steaming. The steam from whole herbs is milder and less likely to irritate sensitive lungs. Here are some safe, expert-approved options you can try:

• Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)
  This common kitchen herb is known for its antimicrobial properties and gentle support for respiratory health. According to a study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, thyme has compounds that can help relax the bronchial muscles and fight infections.
  
  How to use: Add 1–2 tablespoons of dried thyme to a bowl of steaming water. Drape a towel over your head and breathe in gently for 5–7 minutes.
• Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)
  Chamomile isn’t just for tea. It’s soothing, anti-inflammatory, and widely tolerated—even by sensitive individuals. It can help calm irritated tissues in the throat and upper lungs.
  
  How to use: Steep chamomile flowers in boiling water for a few minutes before using it for steam inhalation.
• Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
  Licorice has natural expectorant qualities and helps soothe the mucous membranes. Just be mindful that it can interact with some medications, so talk to your doctor first.
  
  How to use: Simmer a few small pieces of dried licorice root in water for 10 minutes. Then use the steam as you would with other herbs.
• Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
  Lavender is calming and has mild antispasmodic properties, which may help ease asthma-related tension. A 2014 study from the International Journal of Molecular Medicine noted its potential to reduce airway inflammation.
  
  How to use: Add a few dried lavender buds to your steam mix. The scent is light and usually well tolerated.
• Mullein Leaf (Verbascum thapsus)
  Used traditionally for all kinds of lung issues, mullein helps clear mucus and soothes the bronchial tubes. It’s considered one of the gentler herbs for respiratory support.
  
  How to use: Use 1 tablespoon of dried mullein leaf per cup of water. Let it steep, then inhale the steam carefully.

Tips for Safe Herbal Steaming with Asthma

• Start small: Always test a small amount of steam before committing to a full session.
• Keep sessions short: Begin with 3–5 minutes. If you feel comfortable, you can gradually increase to 10 minutes.
• Use whole herbs: Avoid essential oils unless guided by a qualified practitioner.
• Stay cool: Don’t use boiling hot water that creates harsh steam. Let it cool slightly before inhaling.

What the Experts Say

Dr. Sarah Beers, a board-certified pulmonologist, shares this advice: “Herbal steam can be a soothing addition to asthma care when used with caution. Patients should consult their healthcare provider, especially if they’re already on medication, to ensure there are no interactions.”

Likewise, the University of Maryland Medical Center highlights mullein and thyme as traditionally used herbs for asthma, noting their anti-inflammatory and expectorant effects. But they also stress that natural remedies should never replace prescribed treatments.

Extra Tips for Respiratory Relief (Beyond Steam)

Looking to go the extra mile? Here are a few lesser-known but gentle suggestions that might complement your herbal steaming routine:

• Drink herbal teas
  Teas made from ginger, turmeric, or licorice root can support the lungs from the inside out. Warm fluids help loosen mucus too.
• Use a humidifier
  Keeping indoor air slightly humid (but not too damp) can prevent airway dryness that triggers asthma symptoms.
• Try nasal saline rinses
  Sometimes asthma gets triggered by post-nasal drip. Saline rinses can help clear the sinuses naturally.
• Practice belly breathing
  Also called diaphragmatic breathing, this technique helps control breath and reduces anxiety-related tightness in the chest.

Note: Always talk to a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new remedy—especially if you have a chronic condition like asthma.

Conclusion: Finding What Works for You

Asthma doesn’t have to get in the way of living a full, active life—but it does require a little care and customization. Herbal steam blends can be a gentle, natural way to support your lungs, as long as you choose the right herbs and use them safely.

Everyone’s body reacts differently, so start slow, pay attention to how you feel, and talk to your healthcare provider before adding anything new to your routine. With a little patience and the right knowledge, you can build a holistic routine that makes breathing easier and life a bit more comfortable.

Bianca Nala

Bianca Nala is a compassionate Nurse Practitioner with a strong background in primary and respiratory care. As a health writer for Healthusias.com, she combines her clinical expertise with a talent for clear, relatable storytelling to help readers better understand their health. Bianca focuses on topics like asthma, COPD, chronic cough, and overall lung health, aiming to simplify complex medical topics without losing accuracy. Whether she’s treating patients or writing articles, Bianca is driven by a single goal: making quality healthcare knowledge accessible to everyone.