When the air feels heavy, the seasons shift, or you’ve simply been talking more than usual, your lungs can crave a bit of extra support. In many traditional food cultures, breathing-friendly recipes are as important as soups and teas—they’re simple, soothing, and built around ingredients known for their warming, opening, and comforting qualities.
Today I’m sharing one of my favorite kitchen remedies: a Ginger–Pear Lung Support Tonic. It’s a gentle, aromatic drink inspired by East Asian culinary traditions, where pears, ginger, and honey are often used to soothe the throat and promote easier breathing. While it isn’t a medical treatment, it’s a beautiful daily ritual that can help you feel clearer, warmer, and more relaxed.
Why These Ingredients?
Not medical advice—just traditional culinary wisdom.
Asian Pear
Crisp, light, and naturally hydrating, pears are traditionally used to ease dryness in the lungs and throat. When simmered, they become tender and soothing.
Fresh Ginger
Ginger has a warming, opening quality. Many people use it to feel less congestion and encourage smoother airflow.
Honey
Naturally comforting for the throat with a silky texture that makes this tonic feel almost luxurious.
Cinnamon (optional)
Adds warmth and helps balance the coolness of the pear.
Ginger–Pear Lung Support Tonic (Recipe)
Serves: 2
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 large Asian pear (or any ripe pear), diced
- 1–2 inches fresh ginger, sliced
- 2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon honey (add at the end, to preserve flavor)
- 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
- A squeeze of fresh lemon (optional, for brightness)
Instructions
- Prepare the pear: Wash and dice the pear—no need to peel unless you prefer a smoother texture.
- Simmer the base: Add the pear, ginger slices, and cinnamon stick to a small pot with 2 cups of water.
- Cook gently: Bring to a soft simmer. Reduce the heat and cook for about 15–20 minutes, until the pears are tender and the liquid is aromatic.
- Strain or mash: For a clearer drink, strain the liquid. For a thicker, more nourishing version, mash the pears directly into the tea.
- Sweeten: Let the tonic cool for 1–2 minutes, then stir in honey.
- Add lemon (optional): A small squeeze brightens the flavor and adds a refreshing inhale-friendly aroma.
How to Enjoy It
Sip slowly while the drink is warm, letting the steam rise as you take a deep breath in. Many people find that the combination of heat, ginger, and pear feels comforting to the chest and throat.
Try it:
- first thing in the morning
- after a long day outside
- when your voice feels tired
- before bed on cool nights