Before fully transitioning into summer, the temperature difference between day and night can reach around 10°C. Due to this fluctuation, many people experience respiratory symptoms such as coughing and phlegm, or worsening of pre-existing respiratory conditions.

When chronic bronchitis or asthma narrows the airways, breathing becomes difficult. If phlegm or inflammation builds up in the bronchial tubes—the passageway through which air flows into the lungs—it can negatively impact various lung diseases such as pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema, and even lung cancer.

Bellflower root (Doraji) is a highly effective food that helps maintain bronchial health and alleviates coughing and phlegm during seasonal transitions. There's even a saying, “Aged Doraji is better than wild ginseng.” Let's explore the key components and characteristics of Doraji that benefit the respiratory system.

▶ Rich in Saponins: Effective for Cough and Phlegm Relief

Bellflower root is packed with fiber, calcium, iron, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. Among its many nutrients, saponins are particularly well-known for promoting bronchial and respiratory health.

Saponins in Doraji activate bronchial secretion functions, helping to loosen and expel phlegm. Due to this effect, Doraji has been widely used in traditional medicine as a herbal remedy for respiratory diseases.

In traditional Korean medicine, dried Doraji is known as Gilgyeong (桔梗). A well-known herbal prescription called Gamgil-tang, which combines Doraji with licorice root, is particularly effective for soothing sore throats.

※ Quick Tip! What Causes the Bitter Taste of Doraji?

Doraji has a slightly bitter or earthy taste, which comes from alkaloids and glycosides. These compounds, along with saponins, stimulate the smooth muscles of the bronchi, aiding in phlegm expulsion and reducing inflammation.

▶ Beneficial for Tonsillitis and Pharyngitis

From a traditional Korean medicine perspective, Doraji is especially effective for Tae-eumin, a body type characterized by weak respiratory function, frequent colds, and excessive coughing and phlegm. When used medicinally, dried Doraji is typically consumed as a decoction, with 10–20g boiled in water, or ground into a powder for easier consumption.

Beyond clearing phlegm, Doraji helps with various respiratory conditions, including:

• Cough
• Bronchitis
• Colds
• Pharyngitis (throat inflammation)
• Tonsillitis

These benefits stem from Doraji’s anti-inflammatory, sedative, anti-allergic, fever-reducing, and pain-relieving properties. Regular consumption of Doraji can significantly improve overall respiratory health.

※ Important Considerations When Consuming Doraji

While Doraji is highly beneficial, people with weak digestive systems—particularly Soeumin body types—should consume it in moderation, as excessive intake may impair digestion.

In traditional Korean medicine, Soeumin individuals are generally small-framed, thin, and appear physically weak. They often have a slender upper body with more developed lower body features, such as the hips, and tend to walk slightly hunched forward.

By keeping these considerations in mind, you can incorporate Doraji into your diet wisely and reap its numerous respiratory health benefits.

Source: 힐팁(http://www.healtip.co.kr)

Balloonflower Juice 100

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