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Lungwort (Pulmonaria officinalis)

Botanical Information

  • Family: Boraginaceae
  • Common Names: Lungwort, Common Lungwort, Spotted Lungwort
  • Parts Used: Aerial parts (leaves, flowers)

Description

Pulmonaria officinalis, commonly known as Lungwort, is a perennial herb native to Europe and parts of Asia. It has been traditionally used for respiratory conditions due to its expectorant and soothing properties. The plant’s spotted leaves were historically thought to resemble lung tissue, leading to its association with lung health in the Doctrine of Signatures.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used in European folk medicine for respiratory ailments, including bronchitis, asthma, and tuberculosis.
  • Applied as a demulcent and expectorant to soothe coughs and irritated mucous membranes.
  • Traditionally used as a wound healer and anti-inflammatory for skin conditions.
  • Consumed as a mild diuretic to support kidney function.

Constituents

  • Mucilage
  • Saponins
  • Flavonoids
  • Tannins
  • Allantoin
  • Silicic acid

Actions

  • Expectorant
  • Demulcent (Soothing to mucous membranes)
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Astringent
  • Mild diuretic
  • Vulnerary (Wound healing)

Medicinal Uses

1. Respiratory Health:
Lungwort is traditionally used to relieve coughs, bronchitis, asthma, and sore throats by soothing irritation and aiding expectoration.

2. Wound Healing and Skin Support:
Applied externally as a poultice or wash for wounds, burns, and inflammatory skin conditions.

3. Urinary Tract Health:
Mild diuretic effects may help with urinary infections and kidney support.

4. Digestive Soothing:
Used to calm inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract.

Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea from Leaves and Flowers):

  • 1-2 tsp of dried lungwort per cup of hot water. Steep for 10-15 minutes. Drink up to three times daily.

Tincture:

  • 2-5 ml taken up to twice daily.

Poultice (Topical Use):

  • Crushed fresh or dried leaves applied to wounds or inflamed skin.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Use with caution and consult a healthcare provider.
  • Liver Sensitivity: Contains small amounts of pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which may be harmful in excessive amounts.
  • Allergic Reactions: May cause sensitivity in individuals allergic to plants in the Boraginaceae family.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

  • Traditional Western Herbalism: Cooling and moistening; used for lung health and tissue healing.
  • Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): Supports the Lung and Kidney meridians, helps clear heat and nourish Yin.
  • Ayurveda: Balances Pitta and Vata, but may increase Kapha in excess.

Combinations

  • For Respiratory Support: Combine with mullein and thyme.
  • For Skin Healing: Combine with calendula and comfrey.
  • For Urinary Health: Combine with uva ursi and dandelion.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting: Leaves and flowers are collected in early spring and dried for medicinal use.
  • Drying: Air dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
  • Storage: Store dried plant material in airtight containers away from moisture and light.

Modern Research

Studies confirm Pulmonaria officinalis’s expectorant, anti-inflammatory, and mucilage-rich properties, reinforcing its traditional applications.

Lungwort remains a valuable herb in both traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for respiratory health, wound healing, and urinary tract support.