No scientific evidence that homemade concoctions can help 'cleanse lungs'

What's the claim?

Amid high air pollution levels in North India, multiple videos on Instagram have claimed that homemade concoctions can act as lung purifiers. One video claims that their concoction "can help beat the Delhi Pollution and changing weather side effects!" The video, which has 11,000 likes, explains how to make this blend at home and is referred to as "immunity shots."

The video claims that a blend of turmeric, curry leaves, Indian gooseberry, ginger, black pepper, and tulsi (holy basil) leaves can purify the lungs and boost the immune system. 

Another video with 81,000 likes claims that "this ancient remedy is designed to help clear mucus and support lung detox. Combining the garlic, ginger, and cloves, it claims to soothe coughs and cleanse the respiratory system naturally."

One reel by an influencer markets a pill that claims to detox lungs by clearing toxins and pollutants. Product advertisements also provide quick solutions to detox lungs. 

Screenshots of reels and videos offering advice on how to clean lungs. (Source: Instagram, Facebook/Modified by Logically Facts)

The air quality index in the northern states of India and the national capital region (NCR) is proof of severe levels of pollution, which poses various health risks. This has left people opting for desperate measures to protect themselves, and social media is flooded with such solutions and products.

However, homemade concoctions or packaged lung cleansers are not a solution to fight high pollution levels, and the science behind lung detoxification doesn't support these claims.

What did we find?

Pulmonologist Dr. Suhas H S, Manipal Hospital, Bengaluru, told Logically Facts that "the lungs have a natural self-cleaning mechanism, constantly working to clear out harmful particles and protect against infections. Rather than relying on quick fixes or unproven remedies, it's better to adopt healthy habits that protect lung health." 

In response to our query about homemade concoctions suggested in the videos, Dr. Suhas said, "There are no scientific articles to support their usage." He added that while they may help boost immunity, it is advised to practice caution while consuming them because there are not enough articles/research regarding the same.

We searched for scientific studies to learn more but found strong studies with good data and methodology only around the two ingredients honey and turmeric; however, these also call for further research. 

According to a paper in the peer-reviewed journal Science Review, "The evidence for the use of curcumin [found in turmeric] in pulmonary disease is still sparse and has mostly been obtained using either in vitro or animal models." The British Medical Journal also published a review where researchers reviewed 14 studies where upper respiratory infections were treated with either honey or cough suppressants. Honey did improve symptoms in a few cases, but the findings were observational, and the review concluded that placebo-controlled trials are needed to prove the effectiveness of honey as a cure. 

Dr. Nikhil Modi, respiratory medicine specialist and pulmonologist at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, New Delhi, told Logically Facts that "at home, available ingredients such as ginger and honey are rich in antioxidants." "But these products and spices [referring to black pepper, ginger, turmeric, and gooseberry] can lead to gastroenteritis issues and cause acidity that may also worsen throat pain if one is already suffering from respiratory issues,"
he added. 

Dr. Modi explained that these ingredients have therapeutic effects and may provide some short-term relief as soothing agents, but there is no scientific evidence to back the claim that certain spices and ingredients can clean lungs. He added, "The best way to maximize lung health is to protect yourself from pollution, wear a mask, and avoid going out." 

Do lung cleansers help clean lungs? 

Dr. Suhas responded to this by saying, "Many lung detox products, like 'cleansing sprays' advertised on social media, promise to remove impurities from the lungs and improve breathing. However, these products lack scientific evidence and aren't approved by medical experts."

"Instead of relying on unproven products, it's much safer and more effective to focus on healthy habits like avoiding smoking, staying away from pollutants, and getting regular exercise to keep your lungs in top shape," he added. 

According to the American Lung Association, "When it comes to lung health, the general rule to follow is: don't trust quick fixes." It added that "detox remedies may seem like a great concept, but unfortunately, many claims made by companies selling unproven treatments are exaggerated."

Dr. Modi echoed a similar overview about lung cleansing supplements, saying that there is not enough evidence that they support lung health, although noting that "most of these supplements have minerals and vitamins that may be good for health generally."

What health organizations have to say

Although it's challenging to protect the lungs when pollution levels are high, organizations such as the American Lung Association explain that it is essential to limit the time spent outdoors as well as how to ensure that one does not add to the pollution. The latter includes avoiding burning trash or wood and using a bike or carpool while also protecting indoor air quality. 

The American Lung Association states, "Lungs are self-cleaning organs that will begin to heal themselves once they are no longer exposed to pollutants. The best way to ensure your lungs are healthy is by avoiding harmful toxins like cigarette smoke, vaping, and air pollution, as well as getting regular exercise and eating well."

The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety also explains, "Luckily, the lungs have another function—they have defense mechanisms that protect them by removing dust particles from the respiratory system."

The verdict

There is no scientific evidence that concoctions and packaged lung cleansers can help clean or detox lungs. Reliable sources and pulmonologists have stressed that the lungs are self-cleaning organs that heal themselves when not exposed to polluted air or harmful toxins.