The path air takes
Air enters through the nose or mouth, travels through the throat and trachea, and moves into branching airways called bronchi and bronchioles. These branches end near tiny air sacs called alveoli.
Gas exchange at the alveoli
At the alveoli, oxygen moves into nearby blood vessels while carbon dioxide moves from the blood into the air spaces to be exhaled. This exchange depends on healthy lung tissue, ventilation and circulation.
Mucus and cilia
The airways normally produce mucus that can trap particles. Microscopic hair-like cilia help move mucus and trapped material toward the throat. This is a normal protective system, not a reason to assume that every person needs a supplement-based “cleanse.”
Supporting respiratory health
Avoiding tobacco smoke, reducing harmful exposures, staying physically active as appropriate, and following medical treatment for diagnosed conditions are evidence-based ways to protect respiratory health.
References & further reading
- American Lung Association — How Lungs Work — respiratory-system overview