Lung Tonic

Native Americans of the Midwest used this tonic to alleviate bronchial coughs and congestion.

2   tablespoons pleurisy root

1   tablespoon mullein root

2   tablespoons elecampane root

1   tablespoon cramp bark

1   teaspoon licorice root or ginger

2   tablespoons osha root, optional; take only if there is congestion or a productive cough

2   tablespoons yucca, dried and split, optional; take only if there is wheezing

Simmer in 2 cups of water, covered for 15 minutes.  Strain when cool and drink half a cup daily to facilitate the lungs or drink half a cup three times daily to alleviate congestion. For wheezing, add dried and split yucca, and add half a cup to coffee or drink alone up to 3 times daily.