How to Clean Lungs After Smoking

The lungs contain air chambers and passages that allow for efficient breathing and circulation. After years of smoking, these passages become clogged with toxins and chemicals from the smoke. The good news is that lungs have the ability to regenerate themselves when you stop smoking. The bad news is that this could take up to 15 years. But there are ways to speed up the lung regeneration process, if you take a holistic approach and are patient and diligent.

Instructions

Instructions

• 1

  Exercise. If you've smoked for a long time with little exercise, start slowly and work your way up to an effective exercise routine. Exercising strengthens your breathing and, in turn, your lungs. Allow yourself to cough up mucus and build-up because your lungs are simply ridding themselves of unwanted grime. Always keep exercise as a consistent part of your routine.

• 2

  Change your eating habits. Certain herbs, spices and foods affect the lungs, so try adding rosemary, thyme, horseradish, ginger, cayenne and avocados (among other foods) to your diets. Your physician will have a full list for you.

• 3

  Avoid second-hand smoke and exposure to carbon monoxide. Not only will staying away from second-hand smoke help keep your lung regeneration on course, it will keep you from being tempted to smoke again.

• 4

  Explore alternative treatments. Acupuncture and homeopathic remedies are becoming popular ways to improve health among former smokers. Talk to your doctor and to other people who have tried alternative treatments to regain lung health.