Here are some ways you can take care of yourself on these smoke-filled days.
Keep windows and doors closed, temperature permitting.
Stay home on days with poor air quality and wear a mask when outside (NIOSH-approved and labeled as N95, N100, or P100). Refrain from outdoor exercise.
Consider purchasing a high-quality air filter for your home, especially if you have any respiratory conditions like asthma, COPD, and allergies. Read this article for top picks.
Support your lungs with essential oils like peppermint, eucalyptus, ravintsara, and lemon by diffusing in the home or applying to the pulse points and neck.
Drink water with lemon juice in the mornings to support healthy detoxification. Mint tea is also a great choice as it clears heat from the lungs.
Get acupuncture to boost immunity and to help the organs deal with the added stress and toxicity.
Simmered Pear Decoction for Lung Health
In traditional Chinese dietary therapy, pears are said to protect and moisten the lungs. Ginger helps detoxify. Cinnamon and cardamom warm the digestive fire and prevent the formation of phlegm. Dates or jujubes boost the spleen qi and tonify the blood.
6-8 cups filtered water
3-4 pears, sliced
2-3 cinnamon sticks
3-4 cardamom pods
1-inch ginger, sliced
chopped dates or jujubes*
Put all ingredients in a pot and bring to a boil. Then turn down the heat and gently simmer for 10-15 minutes. Lemon juice and raw local honey can be added to your cup at the end. Enjoy the broth along with the pears!
*Jujubes or Chinese Da Zao can be found at some California farmer’s markets this time of year.