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All of us are being directly affected by the current fires across the West Coast. And for the past several weeks we are all being affected by the smoke that is spreading daily.

This is taxing on our lungs and detox systems, not to mention the mental emotional strain it’s causing. Keep reading for ways to support yourself through these trying times.

Let’s join together to help!

Let’s join together – see the fires being contained safely and efficiently and the weather going in favor of this. The people, animals, plants, trees, insects, homes, and business are safe and protected surrounded by positivity and light. Whether this means you are praying or generating light – do what feels good to you so that we can raise the vibration and be a positive force for good, bringing this to an end.

Toxins in the smoke

Remember that the smoke carries many different toxic chemicals and compounds that cause lung irritation. Those with asthma, emphysema, heart disease, sinus problems, and allergies are especially prone to developing problems from smoke. I strongly suggest that you do not exercise outside until the air is cleared.

Limit your outdoor time in the smokey areas. DO WEAR A MASK WHEN OUTDOORS TO LIMIT INHALATION OF THESE TOXINS. Check the website Purple Air for air quality in your neighborhood – even if it looks clear the air quality may not be that good.

Symptoms of Smoke Inhalation

Common symptoms from smoke inhalation and breathing second hand smoke include:

  • fatigue
  • coughing
  • throat irritation
  • watering eyes
  • sinus congestion
  • wheezing
  • shortness of breath
  • headaches
  • nose bleeds

If you have any of these please:

  • Limit your outdoor time
  • Don’t exert yourself outdoors – meaning strenuous exercise/ heavy breathing (if you can avoid this wonderful)
  • If you have an air filter run that, especially at night
  • Make an effort to breathe through your nose – it has protective hairs that will block some of the particulates
  • Stay hydrated – this helps the body to eliminate toxins

How you can support your body!

GLUTATHIONE! It’s the master anti-oxidant in the body and fortunately is in high concentration in the lungs. On the flip side – smoke exposure of any kind will quickly deplete glutathione levels. Supplementing with glutathione is highly recommended during these times!

Reported benefits of glutathione:

  • Antioxidant protection
  • Repairs cell damage
  • Lung and respiratory support
  • Liver and detoxification support
  • Energy support
  • Immune support
  • Aging support

How do you get glutathione? I have a couple options

Option 1 is taking oral supplementation – I have several in stock or you can order through Fullscript. Look at the lung support section. I like SafeCell by Tesseract if you order online.

Option 2 is getting either an IM injection of glutathione OR getting an IV with nutrients (Vitamins B & C with other nutrients to support your immune system) followed by a high dose glutathione push. This is the best way to get the full dosage.

VITAMIN C! That’s right, vitamin C is also an antioxidant so it can protect and support your lungs from the smoke inhalation. I’m really liking the liposomoal formulations but any vitamin C is great.

HERBS that protect and heal the lungs:

Licorice Root – anti-inflammatory, protects mucous membranes, adrenal tonic, clears mucus by changing either the production and viscosity of mucus or improving the cough reflex, is soothing to mucus membranes in the lungs, respiratory and digestive tracts, reduces the amount and severity of coughing

Mullein – clears mucus, is soothing to mucus membranes in the lungs, respiratory and digestive tracts, reduces phlegm

Ginger – circulatory stimulant, anti-inflammatory, antiplatelet, antiemetic (reduce nausea/vomiting), carminative (relieves flatulence and soothes intestinal spasm and pain by relaxing intestinal muscle and sphincters), diaphoretic (controls fever by promoting sweating), pungent (a hot-tasting substance that warms the body, improving digestions and circulation), and aromatic digestive.

Thyme oil OR herb – expectorant, anti-spasm, antibacterial, antifungal, antimicrobial, antioxidant

You can get any of these and make a tea – in fact you can probably find this or a variation of this as a lung support tea by Traditional Medicinals or Yogi Tea. I would brew 2-3 tea bags for 4-5 min for a stronger effect.

How to support your mental emotional sphere

This is a trying time for all of us. The impact of sheltering in place, not being able to easily see friends and family, riots, and now the fires. It’s a lot to be dealing with and is taxing.

I encourage you to dig deep within yourself and recognize that you are a strong being. I know it’s challenging right now but it is the time to recognize this. Our collective uplifted energies can help to heal all that is occurring and it will positively help you.

If this is a challenge try tapping, meditation, counseling. Anything to shift your outlook even slightly is a step in the right direction. I have been meditating using the I Love Me meditation lately. Try the Tapping Solution app or the Fear releasing meditation I’ve recommended before (the meditation starts around 7:30).

You can also take things like Rescue Remedy or GABA to help calm the system.

And remember doing deep breathing (make sure you’re inside with clean air) helps to calm the nervous system and get you out of the fight or flight response.

If you need further support please reach out – we can brainstorm things that will work for you.

In radiant health,

Dr. Laura