Last updated: 1-16-2026 | Reviewed by Dr. Chris Jackson, PharmD
Living with COPD can feel overwhelming, but you're not alone—over 16 million Americans have been diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and millions more may have it without knowing. If you or a loved one is looking for natural COPD support options to complement your existing care plan, you've come to the right place. This guide answers the questions we hear most often from people just like you who want to breathe easier, stay active, and enjoy more quality time with family.
Dr. Chris Jackson, PharmD, a former US Army Combat Medic who founded Betterbrand, understands that managing respiratory health requires a comprehensive approach. That's why we've put together this FAQ guide—to help you understand your options and make informed decisions about supporting your lung health naturally.
Table of Contents
- What Is COPD and Why Does Natural Support Matter?
- Frequently Asked Questions About Natural COPD Support
- The Role of Mullein in Respiratory Wellness
- Lifestyle Changes That Support Clear Airways Naturally
- How to Choose Quality Supplements for Lung Health
- When to Talk to Your Doctor
What Is COPD and Why Does Natural Support Matter?
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a progressive lung condition that makes breathing difficult. It typically includes chronic bronchitis, emphysema, or both. While there's no cure for COPD, many people find that combining their prescribed treatments with natural respiratory wellness approaches helps them maintain a better quality of life.
According to the American Lung Association, COPD is the fourth leading cause of death in the United States. The good news? Research continues to show that lifestyle modifications and certain natural compounds may support respiratory wellness when used alongside conventional care.
Natural COPD support isn't about replacing your doctor's recommendations—it's about giving your body additional tools to support healthy lung function, maintain clear airways, and promote overall respiratory wellness.
Frequently Asked Questions About Natural COPD Support
What natural supplements support lung health for people with COPD?
Several natural compounds have shown promise in supporting respiratory wellness. Here are some of the most researched options:
N-Acetyl L-Cysteine (NAC): This powerful antioxidant supports the body's natural mucus clearance processes. A 2019 review published in the European Respiratory Review found that NAC supplementation may help support respiratory function in people with chronic bronchitis. NAC helps replenish glutathione, your body's master antioxidant, which plays a crucial role in protecting lung tissue.
Mullein Leaf: Traditional herbalists have used mullein for centuries to support respiratory comfort. Modern research suggests mullein benefits include soothing the respiratory tract and supporting the body's natural ability to clear mucus. The saponins in mullein may help loosen congestion, promoting easier breathing.
Vitamin D: Studies show that many people with COPD have low vitamin D levels. A 2021 study in the journal Chest found that adequate vitamin D levels are associated with better respiratory outcomes. Vitamin D also plays a crucial role in immune system support, which is especially important for respiratory health.
Elderberry: Known for its immune-supporting properties, elderberry provides antioxidant support that may help protect lung tissue from oxidative stress. Research published in Nutrients in 2023 confirmed elderberry's role in supporting healthy immune function.
Can mullein really help with breathing support?
Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) has been used in traditional European and Native American medicine for respiratory support for hundreds of years. The mullein benefits that make it particularly valuable for breathing support include:
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Saponins: These compounds support the body's natural ability to clear mucus from the airways
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Mucilage: This soothing substance helps coat and calm irritated respiratory tissues
- Flavonoids: These provide antioxidant support to help protect delicate lung tissue
A study published in Phytotherapy Research noted that mullein extracts demonstrated supportive properties for respiratory comfort. While more research is needed, many people report that mullein helps them maintain clear airways naturally.
In Betterbrand's 60-day clinical trial conducted by Citruslabs, participants taking our Mullein + Chlorophyll Drops reported significant improvements: 81% experienced less frequent coughing, 77% reported clearer airways, and 73% found it easier to clear mucus.
Is there such a thing as a natural lung detox?
While your lungs are remarkably self-cleaning organs, you can support their natural cleansing processes. The term "natural lung detox" refers to approaches that help support your respiratory system's built-in mechanisms for clearing irritants, mucus, and environmental particles.
Your lungs have tiny hair-like structures called cilia that constantly sweep debris upward. Supporting healthy cilia function and mucus clearance is key to respiratory wellness. Here's how you can support this natural process:
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Stay hydrated: Water helps keep mucus thin and easier to clear
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Practice deep breathing exercises: This helps expand lung capacity and clear stagnant air
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Use supportive herbs: Mullein, thyme, and ginger have traditional uses for respiratory support
- Consider NAC supplementation: NAC supports the production of glutathione, which helps protect lung tissue
What role does inflammation support play in respiratory wellness?
Chronic inflammation in the airways is a hallmark of COPD. While prescription medications address inflammation directly, certain natural compounds may provide complementary inflammation support:
Maritime Pine Bark Extract: Rich in proanthocyanidins, this extract has been studied for its antioxidant properties. Research published in the International Journal of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease suggests that antioxidant supplementation may support respiratory wellness.
Reishi Mushroom: Used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries, reishi contains beta-glucans and triterpenes that support healthy immune response. Studies indicate reishi may help modulate inflammatory processes in the body.
Ginger: This common kitchen spice contains gingerols, which have been studied for their ability to support a healthy inflammatory response. A 2023 review in Foods highlighted ginger's potential role in respiratory support.
Are GMP certified supplements really important?
Absolutely. When choosing supplements for respiratory wellness, quality matters enormously. GMP certified supplements (Good Manufacturing Practice) must meet strict FDA guidelines for:
- Ingredient purity and potency
- Contamination prevention
- Accurate labeling
- Consistent quality batch to batch
Doctor-formulated supplements that are third-party tested provide an additional layer of assurance. Betterbrand products are formulated by Dr. Chris Jackson, PharmD, manufactured in a GMP certified facility, and third-party tested by Eurofins Scientific—one of the world's leading testing laboratories.
With over 836,000 customers trusting Betterbrand and products available at CVS, Walgreens, and GNC, you can feel confident you're getting quality supplements backed by science.
How can I achieve mucus relief naturally?
Excess mucus production is one of the most frustrating aspects of COPD. Here are evidence-based approaches for mucus relief natural methods:
Hydration: Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water daily. Proper hydration keeps mucus thin and easier to clear.
Steam inhalation: Breathing in warm, moist air can help loosen mucus. Add a few drops of eucalyptus oil for additional support.
Postural drainage: Certain positions help gravity move mucus out of your lungs. Ask your respiratory therapist about techniques appropriate for you.
Herbal support: Mullein, thyme, and elderberry have traditional uses for supporting healthy mucus clearance. Betterbrand's Detox Tea combines these herbs with ginger and American ginseng for comprehensive respiratory support.
Controlled coughing: Your respiratory therapist can teach you techniques to cough more effectively without exhausting yourself.
What lifestyle changes support clear airways naturally?
Beyond supplements, several lifestyle modifications can support your respiratory wellness:
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Quit smoking: If you haven't already, quitting smoking is the single most important step. It's never too late—your lungs begin healing within days of your last cigarette.
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Avoid irritants: Stay away from secondhand smoke, strong fumes, and air pollution when possible
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Exercise regularly: Even gentle walking helps strengthen respiratory muscles and improve oxygen efficiency
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Practice pursed-lip breathing: This technique helps keep airways open longer and reduces shortness of breath
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Maintain a healthy weight: Extra weight puts pressure on your diaphragm and can make breathing harder
- Get vaccinated: Flu and pneumonia vaccines are especially important for people with COPD
How to Choose Quality Supplements for Lung Health
When shopping for respiratory supplements, look for:
- Doctor-formulated products with transparent ingredient lists
- Third-party testing verification
- GMP certified manufacturing
- Realistic, FDA-compliant claims (avoid products promising to "cure" or "treat" COPD)
- A satisfaction guarantee that shows the company stands behind its product
Betterbrand's BetterLungs Capsules contain a comprehensive blend of NAC, Mullein Leaf, Maritime Pine Bark Extract, Elderberry, American Ginseng, Reishi Mushroom, and Vitamin D—all in one convenient daily supplement. With a 365-day money-back guarantee, there's no risk in trying them.
When to Talk to Your Doctor
Natural COPD support works best as part of a comprehensive care plan. Always consult your healthcare provider before adding supplements, especially if you:
- Take prescription medications (to check for interactions)
- Have scheduled surgery
- Are pregnant or nursing
- Have other health conditions
Your doctor can help you create an integrated approach that includes your prescribed treatments, lifestyle modifications, and appropriate natural support options.
Conclusion
Managing COPD doesn't have to mean resigning yourself to a diminished quality of life. With the right combination of medical care, lifestyle changes, and natural respiratory support, many people continue to stay active, enjoy their grandchildren, and live full lives.
Betterbrand's doctor-formulated supplements are designed specifically for people like you who want science-backed, natural options for respiratory wellness. Whether you prefer capsules, gummies, tinctures, or tea, we have a solution that fits your lifestyle.
Ready to breathe easier? Explore our BetterLungs collection and discover why over 836,000 customers trust Betterbrand for their respiratory health needs. And remember—with our 365-day money-back guarantee, you have nothing to lose and clearer airways to gain.
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
- American Lung Association - COPD Statistics - Overview of COPD prevalence in the United States
- European Respiratory Review - NAC in Chronic Bronchitis - 2019 review on N-Acetyl Cysteine supplementation
- Chest Journal - Vitamin D and COPD - 2021 study on vitamin D levels and respiratory outcomes
- Nutrients - Elderberry Immune Support - 2023 research on elderberry's immune-supporting properties
- Phytotherapy Research - Mullein Extract Studies - Research on mullein's respiratory support properties
- International Journal of COPD - Antioxidants and Lung Health - Studies on antioxidant supplementation for respiratory wellness
- Foods Journal - Ginger and Respiratory Health - 2023 review on ginger's supportive properties