Respiratory disorders, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), bronchitis, and respiratory tract infections, collectively represent one of the most significant global health burdens, contributing to millions of premature deaths and substantial morbidity annually. Current pharmacological interventions, such as inhaled corticosteroids, bronchodilators, and antimicrobials, provide symptomatic relief but are frequently associated with adverse effects, high treatment costs, growing antimicrobial resistance, and limited efficacy in refractory disease. These limitations have stimulated increasing scientific and clinical interest in herbal drugs as adjunctive or complementary therapeutic strategies. This review critically evaluates the pharmacological basis, therapeutic efficacy, and translational relevance of herbal medicines in the management of respiratory disorders. Key medicinal plants and their bioactive constituents, including glycyrrhizin from Glycyrrhiza glabra, thymoquinone from Nigella sativa, curcumin from Curcuma longa, andrographolide from Andrographis paniculata, and boswellic acids from Boswellia serrata, are examined for their anti-inflammatory, bronchodilatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties. Evidence from in vitro, preclinical, and clinical studies is synthesized to assess current knowledge and identify gaps. Challenges related to pharmacokinetic variability, lack of standardization, and regulatory ambiguity are discussed. The review concludes that while herbal drugs offer a scientifically compelling and clinically relevant adjunct to conventional respiratory therapy, rigorous randomized controlled trials and harmonized regulatory frameworks are essential for their safe and effective integration into mainstream respiratory medicine.