Breathing Easy on Hawaiʻi Island

On Hawaiʻi Island, volcanic activity has shaped our land, enriched our soils, and influenced life for centuries. Along with these gifts comes vog or volcanic smog.

When Kīlauea emits sulfur dioxide gas, it reacts with oxygen, sunlight, and moisture to form fine particles that can travel downwind, especially when trade winds shift, affecting communities from Kaʻū to Kona – and sometimes even other islands. Historical accounts from 19th century missionaries and sailors noted “hazy skies” and “thick air” during eruptions.

Vog’s fine particles can irritate the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs. For those with asthma, COPD, or heart disease, vog can temporarily worsen symptoms. One study found increased respiratory issues, especially among children and kūpuna, during high vog.

Drinking water helps keep the throat and airways moist, making it easier to clear particles from the respiratory system. Hawaiian herbal teas such as māmaki and koʻokoʻolau not only hydrate but also deliver antioxidants that support overall lung health.

ʻUhaloa, traditionally chewed or brewed into tea and sometimes even inhaled as a gentle mist, has long been valued for easing sore throats, calming coughs, and helping with asthma. Its benefits come from a synergistic mix of flavonoids and other plant compounds that work together to reduce inflammation and promote easier breathing.

ʻŌlena and ginger add another layer of support, serving to calm inflammation, boost immunity, and bring comfort to irritated airways. Sliced fresh and simmered into tea, grated into meals, or blended with honey, these roots can be powerful daily allies. Pairing ʻōlena with a pinch of black pepper enhances its absorption.

Clearing the sinuses with saline rinses or neti pots with sterile water may also be helpful in removing irritating particles. Traditionally, Native Hawaiians sometimes used clean saltwater or brackish water for nasal comfort and cleansing. Modern guidelines recommend boiled or distilled water for safety, due to possible ocean pollutants or contaminants.

Keeping indoor air clean is equally important. On heavy vog days, close windows and use a HEPA air purifier if possible.

Before air purifiers, families would lay damp tī leaves or cloth at the base of doorways, or hang them across the entry, to help keep dust and particles from drifting inside.

Vog levels shift with wind patterns, so planning outdoor work or exercise when air quality improves can reduce strain on the lungs. The Hawaiʻi Department of Health’s vog dashboard provides real- time updates to guide your day.

By combining traditional remedies and modern resources, we can protect our wellbeing while continuing to thrive in the place we are proud to call home.

Follow Dr. Matsuo on:

Facebook (@DrJodiLeslieMatsuo),
Instagram (@foodrxblueprint)
and on Twitter/X (@foodrxblueprint).