DEAR READER: The lungs are organs the body cannot live without. Unfortunately, many people function with lungs that are not healthy, resulting in countless upper-respiratory infections and difficulties throughout their lives. The air we breathe is filled with impurities — from firsthand, secondhand or thirdhand cigarette smoke; cleaning-solution chemicals; automobile-exhaust fumes; and many other sources.

Herbal remedies for cleansing are many and include lotus-root tea, lemon juice, antioxidants, minerals, watercress soup and a host of other combinations. Save your money. Once damage is done to your lungs, the only effective treatment is to refrain from smoking and to limit possible exposure. If you have not already had one, request a chest X-ray to determine whether your habit has done any harm. If so, you may wish to make an appointment with a pulmonologist, who can provide some direction.

Each second, minute, hour and day you breathe without exposing yourself to toxins works toward the purification goal. I am sure that I will be chastised for panning cleansing recipes, but I find it hard to understand how blackened lungs will improve by drinking lemon juice or eating a bowl of watercress soup. You have recognized the dangers of smoking and have taken steps to correct the problem. By doing so, you are already on the path to a healthier life. The task of making a decision to discontinue smoking is not an easy one. Congratulations to you.

To provide related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Pulmonary Disease.” Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed stamped No. 10 envelope and a $2 check or money order to Newsletter, P.O. Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092-0167. Be sure to mention the title or print an order form off my website at www.AskDrGottMD.com.