Last updated: 1-23-2026 | Reviewed by Dr. Chris Jackson, PharmD
Spring brings warmer weather, blooming flowers, and unfortunately for millions of Americans, seasonal allergies that can make breathing feel like a chore. If you've ever wondered how pollen and other airborne irritants affect your lungs—or explored mullein benefits for respiratory wellness—you're in the right place. This guide breaks down the connection between spring allergies and lung health, plus natural strategies to support comfortable breathing all season long.
Table of Contents
- Understanding Spring Allergies and Your Respiratory System
- How Seasonal Irritants Affect Lung Health
- Mullein Benefits for Respiratory Wellness
- Antioxidants for Lungs: Why They Matter
- Natural Strategies for Seasonal Respiratory Support
- When to Consider Supplements Like BetterLungs Capsules
- Frequently Asked Questions
Understanding Spring Allergies and Your Respiratory System
Spring allergies affect approximately 81 million Americans each year, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. When pollen counts rise, your immune system can overreact to these harmless particles, triggering symptoms throughout your respiratory tract.
Common spring allergy triggers include:
- Tree pollen (oak, birch, cedar, maple)
- Grass pollen
- Mold spores from melting snow and spring rains
- Dust mites becoming more active in warming weather
Your respiratory system—including your sinuses, throat, and lungs—works hard during allergy season. The nasal passages filter incoming air, while the lungs rely on mucus membranes and tiny hair-like structures called cilia to trap and remove irritants. Supporting this natural defense system becomes especially important when pollen counts soar.
How Seasonal Irritants Affect Lung Health
While most people associate allergies with sneezing and itchy eyes, the effects extend deeper into the respiratory system. When you inhale allergens, they can travel past your nose and throat into the bronchial tubes and lungs.
The body responds by:
- Producing extra mucus to trap irritants
- Triggering inflammation in airways
- Activating immune cells that release histamines
For some individuals, this response leads to chest tightness, coughing, and difficulty taking full breaths. Research published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology shows that seasonal allergen exposure can temporarily affect lung function even in otherwise healthy adults.
This is where proactive respiratory support becomes valuable. Rather than waiting until symptoms peak, many people find that supporting lung health throughout allergy season helps maintain comfortable, easy breathing.
Mullein Benefits for Respiratory Wellness
Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) has been used in traditional herbalism for centuries, and modern research is beginning to validate what herbalists have long observed. The mullein benefits that make it particularly valuable during allergy season include its natural soothing properties and support for the respiratory tract.
According to a 2021 review in Phytotherapy Research, mullein contains compounds called saponins and mucilage that may help:
- Soothe irritated respiratory tissues
- Support natural mucus clearance
- Promote comfortable breathing
Mullein also contains flavonoids with antioxidant properties, which may help protect respiratory tissues from oxidative stress caused by environmental irritants.
Dr. Chris Jackson, PharmD, formulated BetterLungs products with mullein as a key ingredient precisely because of this traditional and emerging scientific support. "Mullein has been a cornerstone of respiratory herbalism for generations," notes Dr. Jackson. "When combined with other evidence-based ingredients, it offers meaningful support for everyday lung wellness."
Antioxidants for Lungs: Why They Matter
Your lungs face constant exposure to environmental challenges—from pollution and allergens to everyday oxidative stress. Antioxidants for lungs help neutralize free radicals that can damage delicate respiratory tissues over time.
Key antioxidants that support lung health include:
-
Vitamin C – Supports immune function and protects against oxidative damage
-
Elderberry – Rich in anthocyanins with natural antioxidant properties
-
Maritime Pine Bark Extract – Contains proanthocyanidins that support respiratory tissue health
- NAC (N-Acetyl L-Cysteine) – Supports the body's production of glutathione, the "master antioxidant"
During allergy season, when your respiratory system works overtime, ensuring adequate antioxidant intake becomes even more relevant. These protective compounds support your body's natural ability to respond to seasonal environmental challenges.
Natural Strategies for Seasonal Respiratory Support
Beyond supplements, several lifestyle approaches can help maintain lung health during spring allergy season:
Monitor pollen counts daily. Check local forecasts and limit outdoor time when counts peak, typically mid-morning through early afternoon.
Create an indoor sanctuary. Keep windows closed during high-pollen days, use HEPA air filters, and shower after spending time outdoors to remove pollen from skin and hair.
Stay hydrated. Adequate water intake helps maintain healthy mucus consistency, supporting your body's natural ability to clear respiratory passages.
Consider nasal irrigation. Saline rinses can help remove allergens from nasal passages before they travel deeper into the respiratory system. Natural sinus support approaches like this work alongside your body's defenses.
Support your body nutritionally. Foods rich in quercetin (onions, apples, berries) and omega-3 fatty acids may support a healthy inflammatory response during allergy season.
Practice breathing exercises. Deep diaphragmatic breathing strengthens respiratory muscles and promotes full oxygen exchange.
When to Consider Supplements Like BetterLungs Capsules
For those seeking targeted respiratory support, supplements formulated specifically for lung wellness can complement lifestyle strategies. BetterLungs Capsules combine mullein with other science-backed ingredients for comprehensive support.
Each serving contains:
- Mullein Leaf (300mg) for traditional respiratory support
- NAC (400mg) to support natural mucus clearance
- Maritime Pine Bark Extract (150mg) for antioxidant protection
- Vitamin D (1000 IU) to support immune function
- Elderberry (100mg) for additional antioxidant support
- American Ginseng and Reishi Mushroom for overall wellness
This doctor-formulated blend, created by Dr. Chris Jackson, PharmD, is third-party tested by Eurofins Scientific and manufactured in a GMP-certified facility. With over 836,000 customers trusting Betterbrand—and products available at CVS, Walgreens, and GNC—many Americans have made these supplements part of their seasonal wellness routine.
For those who prefer liquid formats, the BetterLungs Mullein + Chlorophyll Tincture offers faster absorption. In a 60-day clinical trial conducted by Citruslabs, 77% of participants reported clearer airways and 73% reported easier mucus clearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main mullein benefits for respiratory health?
Mullein supports respiratory wellness through its natural soothing properties and ability to promote comfortable breathing. The herb contains saponins and mucilage that help support the body's natural mucus clearance, while its flavonoid content provides antioxidant protection for respiratory tissues. Many people use mullein during allergy season when their respiratory system faces increased challenges from environmental irritants.
Can natural supplements help with seasonal respiratory challenges?
Natural supplements can support your body's respiratory function during allergy season when used as part of a comprehensive wellness approach. Ingredients like mullein, NAC, and elderberry have traditional use and emerging research supporting their role in respiratory wellness. However, supplements work best alongside healthy lifestyle habits like staying hydrated, monitoring pollen counts, and maintaining good indoor air quality.
How long does it take to notice benefits from respiratory support supplements?
Individual experiences vary, but many people report noticing positive changes within two to four weeks of consistent daily use. For best results, take supplements as directed—such as two BetterLungs Capsules daily with food—and maintain this routine throughout allergy season. The clinical trial on BetterLungs Mullein + Chlorophyll Drops showed meaningful improvements over a 60-day period.
Are there foods that support lung health during allergy season?
Yes, certain foods contain compounds that support respiratory wellness. Foods rich in antioxidants—like berries, leafy greens, and citrus fruits—help protect lung tissues from oxidative stress. Anti-inflammatory foods including fatty fish, nuts, and olive oil may support a healthy response to seasonal irritants. Staying well-hydrated with water and herbal teas also supports natural mucus consistency.
What's the difference between BetterLungs Capsules and the Mullein Gummies?
Both products support respiratory wellness but offer different formats and formulations. BetterLungs Capsules contain a comprehensive blend of mullein plus NAC, pine bark extract, Vitamin D, elderberry, ginseng, and reishi mushroom. The Mullein Gummies focus on a higher concentration of mullein leaf extract (2000mg) in an easy-to-take, pear-flavored gummy format. Choose capsules for multi-ingredient support or gummies if you prefer a simpler, tastier option.
Conclusion
Spring allergies don't have to sideline your respiratory comfort. Understanding how seasonal irritants affect your lungs—and taking proactive steps to support respiratory wellness—can help you breathe easier all season long.
From time-tested herbs like mullein to antioxidant-rich ingredients that protect delicate lung tissues, natural approaches offer meaningful support without harsh side effects. Combined with smart lifestyle habits, supplements like BetterLungs Capsules provide doctor-formulated, science-backed respiratory support exactly when your lungs need it most.
Ready to support your lung health this spring? Explore the full BetterLungs collection and discover why 836,000+ customers trust Betterbrand for their respiratory wellness needs—backed by a 365-day money-back guarantee.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.
Sources
- Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America - Allergy Facts and Figures - Statistics on seasonal allergy prevalence in the United States
- Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology - Research on allergen exposure and lung function
- Phytotherapy Research - Mullein Review (2021) - Scientific review of Verbascum thapsus traditional uses and pharmacology
- Cleveland Clinic - Seasonal Allergies - Overview of how allergies affect the respiratory system
- National Institutes of Health - NAC and Respiratory Health - Research on N-Acetyl L-Cysteine and mucolytic properties