The Respiratory System: An Overview

Written By Savannah Guidi

Introduction

The respiratory system is the interface between our bodies and the air that surrounds us. It relies on many parts that work in synchronization to give us the oxygen that we need to continue functioning. Illness could easily disrupt this precarious balance, so it is important that we know how to support the organs in this system.

Functions

First and foremost, the respiratory system is the site of gas exchange in the body. Through breathing, we inhale oxygen to deliver it to the bloodstream, and exhale carbon dioxide as a waste product.

Another key function of the respiratory system is the filtering and protection against foreign particles and pathogens that could lead to damage or illness in the body. It works with the immune system by producing mucus and coughing out unwanted particles to keep us healthy.

The respiratory system is also responsible for warming and moisturizing the air we breathe, helping us smell, and plays a key role in sound production - speech!

Structure

The respiratory system relies on the synergism of many moving parts.

The Anatomy of the Respiratory System

  • Nose and nasal cavity

  • Mouth and oral cavity

  • Sinuses

  • Pharynx

  • Larynx

  • Trachea

  • Bronchi and bronchioles

  • Alveoli

  • Lungs

  • Diaphragm and intercostal muscles

The Upper Respiratory Tract

The upper respiratory tract is where air enters and leaves the body. It starts with the nose and mouth, adding moisture and warming the air in the sinuses as it passes through the pharynx and diverts through the epiglottis - the ‘cover’ that keeps food and other unwanted debris out of your lungs! Air then passes through the larynx, or voice box, and continues its journey to the lower respiratory tract.

The Lower Respiratory Tract

The lower respiratory tract begins with the trachea, which divides into bronchi, and further divides into smaller bronchioles until it forms a network of increasingly smaller tubes that deliver air to the alveoli - small sacs within the lungs where gas exchange may occur.

Supporting Anatomy

The diaphragm is a muscle that separates the thoracic cavity, where the heart and lungs reside, and the abdominal cavity, where the digestive tract and other associated organs sit. It is the main driving force for inhalation. As the diaphragm pulls downward, it creates a vacuum in the body that pulls air into the lungs. Then, as it relaxes, air is forced out through the mouth or nose. The intercostal muscles tell you where they are through their name - “inter” meaning ‘between,’ and “costal” meaning ‘pertaining to the ribs.’ These muscles are responsible for expanding the ribcage to allow for the inflation of the lungs as the diaphragm pulls downward, and contracting to force the air out as the diaphragm relaxes.

Important Cells

It is vital that unwanted substances do not end up causing infection or damage to the lungs. Thankfully, the respiratory system has an answer to that problem in the form of ciliated and goblet cells. Goblet cells produce mucus to trap foreign particles that could make you sick, keeping them from venturing any further into the lungs. Meanwhile, ciliated cells contain cilia - little hair-like structures that move the mucus-bound particles up and out of the respiratory tract.

Overlapping Body Systems

  • The Cardiovascular System

  • The Immune System

  • The Nervous System

Some Conditions/Ailments

  • Asthma

  • Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

  • Bronchitis

  • Pneumonia

  • Emphysema

  • Pulmonary fibrosis

  • Lung cancer

  • Tuberculosis

  • Cystic fibrosis

  • Allergic rhinitis

  • Sinusitis

General Support

There are general guidelines that everyone can follow for healthier lungs.

  • Avoid smoking and vaping

  • Avoid exposure to air pollution

  • Stay hydrated

  • Regularly visit the doctor for check ups

  • Exercise regularly

  • Practice deep breathing exercises

  • Avoid foods that could exacerbate mucus production when you are sick - such as dairy, sugar, fried foods, and wheat.

Herbal Support

Preparations

  • Teas

  • Steams

  • Cough syrups

  • Lozenges

  • Chest Poultices

Herbs With an Affinity to the Respiratory System

  • California Spikenard (Aralia californica)

  • Coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara)

  • Elecampane (Inula helenium)

  • Gum Weed (Grindelia squarrosa)

  • Mullein (Verbascum thapsus)

  • Osha (Ligusticum porteri)

  • Pleurisy Root (Asclepias tuberosa)

  • Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)

  • Wild Cherry (Prunus serotina)

  • Yerba Santa (Eriodictyon californicum)

Savannah Guidi
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