Wild Cherry bark (Prunus spp) cool and dry*

Has a long history of use as an antispasmodic to the respiratory tract. It is used for broncho-spasm and coughing associated with bronchitis, chest colds, pneumonia and pertussis. It is a common ingredient in cough syrups, usually mixed with Licorice. Wild Cherry bark can also be used for other spasms including the diaphragm (hiccoughs), vocal cords, hiatal hernia, etc.

Mullein leaf (Verbascum thapsus) neutral*

A mild antitussive, expectorant, and respiratory antispasmodic, it is commonly used to help reduce coughing, enhance elimination of mucus, and to allay respiratory nerve irritation.

Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra or G. uralensis) warm and moist*

Has a long history of use in China and the Middle East. This intensely sweet root is an adaptogen, demulcent, expectorant, pectoral, antiviral and antidepressant. Licorice strengthens endocrine function. The demulcent action heals mucus membrane tissue especially the stomach (ulcers), large and small intestine (irritable bowel syndrome) and lung (dry, irritated cough). Excessive use of Licorice can elevate blood pressure.

Wild Lettuce herb (Lactuca spp) cold and dry*

A mild sedative, antispasmodic and anodyne, it is useful for spasmodic coughs and smoker’s cough.

Lobelia herb  and seed (Lobelia inflata) cold and dry

Has been used for thousands of years by Native Americans and later by Thomsonian and Eclectic physicians as a strong antispasmodic to the lungs, heart and musculo-skeletal system. It can be used effectively in combination with other milder herbs for spasmodic coughing (bronchitis, asthma, pertussis) and for broncho-constriction (COPD).

Khella seed (Amni visnaga) cool and dry*

An ancient Egyptian medicinal plant that is rich in a chemical called Khellin, it acts as a powerful antispasmodic to the small bronchi. Its effects are long lasting and are useful in preventing asthma attacks, especially at night. 

Bibliography:

ESCOP, E/S/C/O/P Monographs-The Scientific Foundation For Herbal Medicine Products, Thieme, 2003

Felter, H. W. The Eclectic Materia Medica, Pharmacology and Therapeutics, J.K. Scudder, 1922

Mitchell, Wm., Plant Medicine in Practice, Livingstone Churchill, 2003

Moore, M. The Medicinal Plants of the Mountain West, Museum of New Mexico Press, 2nd ed., 2004

Skenderi, G., Herbal Vade Mecum, Herbacy Press, 2004

Winston, D., Herbal Therapeutics, Specific Indications For Herbs & Herbal Formulas, HTRL, 8th ed., 2003