The lungs have a primary role in life, just as important as the heart, the brain, and other vital organs. In fact, the easiest way to cut off life from any living organism is to interfere with airflow into the lungs. Generally, they are used to enrich the blood with oxygen rich air and clear the poisonous carbon dioxide from the tissues. The air breathed in sometimes consists of pollutants; particularly the smog, smoke and other chemicals. This greatly hinders its optimal functioning, and can sometimes cause a total breakdown leading to bacterial infections and other infections like influenza and asthma. In order to counter this, lung function supplements have been developed to promote its optimal operation.

Respiratory diseases and malfunctions are among the leading causes of death worldwide. In fact, it is estimated that one in every 7 deaths result from these causes. The most common examples include asthma, emphysema, pneumonia, bronchitis, tuberculosis, pulmonary fibrosis, and the dreaded lung cancer. These together with other common but minor infections like common cold, sore throat, cough and influenza can be minimized by using supplements.

It is most commonly taken as tea. For this, one tablespoon of dry mullein leaves mixed with one cup of boiling water is recommended per day. However, before taking the tea, it should be allowed to steep for at least 10 minutes, before straining. However, if it is to be used for treating the respiratory infections, then the recommended dosage is 3 cups per day.

The other remedy used as a supplement is the horebound. It has been used to manufacture candies and lozenges for centuries that are used to manage cough. Extracts of this plant are also used to manage sore throat, asthma, common cold, and many other respiratory infections.

Vitamins and minerals too can do wonders to the respiratory organs. In fact, a daily multivitamin and occasional single nutrient are recommended. Vitamin E is considered the most important of all vitamins as far as respiratory protection is concerned. It takes up residence in the cell membrane, hence shielding the lung cells from the harms that results from the smoke, smog and other pollutants.

Research findings about non-smokers put the risk of getting cancer among those taking Vitamin E supplements at 50 percent less than those not taking it at all. The dosage normally recommended is 600 IU per day.

The other important vitamin is vitamin C. Thanks to its potent properties, it is an antioxidant. However, it is only beneficial if the use restricts to the right dosage. 200 mg per day gives the best results, better than dosage above or below the recommended 200 mg.

The effectiveness of the natural substances largely depends on the health condition of the user and a properly selecting of the right substance. As such, the more information available about a particular product the better, as this promotes its proper usage. The internet is now the most common source of information, and should you choose this as the preferred method of gathering information, be sure to only use trusted and reliable websites.