Herbs and some Home Remedies for Treatment of Asthma
Asthma is a disease of the respiratory system and the most important features are a constriction and inflammation of the air passage. It can be characterized with many symptoms some of which are wheezing, coughing, breathing difficulty or a tautness of the chest. Various environmental allergies can trigger off the symptoms of asthma. These allergens may be mold, pollen, dust, mites or a viral illness, cold air or even emotional stress. Asthma symptoms may even be fatal in nature.
Alternative treatments for asthma
The patients suffering from asthma can reduce their need of drugs by using various preventive steps, alternative therapies and herbs and herbal remedies. Omega-3 supplements like flax-seed oil and bromelain enzyme from pineapple are all important and significant remedies for the treatment of asthma.
Some of the herbal remedies which are commonly and efficiently used for the treatment of asthma are ephedra, lobelia, Reishi mushroom, glycyrhiza, picrorrhiza and Ginkgo.
Ephedra
Ephedra is a bronchodilator which is used to open the airways and relieve the symptoms of asthma. Ephedra is a potent herb and should always be used under the medical supervision.
Lobelia
Lobelia is a powerful but toxic herb which is suggested to be used in small dosages in asthma patients and that too under medical supervision. Lobelia also finds use in the traditional Siddha medicine system. It can bring about bronchodilation, reduction in the bronchial mucosal edema and also a reduction in the secretions of the airway.
Reishi mushroom
This mushroom has strong anti-inflammatory property and also boosts the immune system. The use of Reishi mushroom is supported in Chinese traditional medicine to strengthen the lungs. Whole Reishi mushroom are used in the food and even herbal tinctures of Reishi mushroom is available.
Glycyrrhiza
Glycyrrhiza is a herb which is beneficial in soothing and relaxing the respiratory tubes and its use leads to the healthy balance and strengthening of the adrenal glands. The use of this herb should be taken under the supervision of your doctor and with caution in patients suffering from hypertension.
Picrorrhiza
Picrorrhiza kurroa is a small herb which finds use in the traditional Ayurvedic medicine for the treatment of different symptoms of asthma and various other lung diseases. Studies have shown an improvement in the function of the lungs.
Ginkgo biloba
Ginkgo biloba has also been used in the treatment of asthma. Researchers have suggested that Ginkgo extracts are known to act as anti-inflammatory agents and also bring about a reduction in the hyper- responsiveness of the airway passage and bronchospasm.
Home remedies for asthma
Various home remedies utilizing the herbs and other natural substances are commonly used in traditional and folklore medicine with known benefits. Some of these are
1. A mixture consisting of equal quantities of ginger juice, pomegranate juice and honey is made and one tablespoon of this mixture is used twice or thrice a day.
2. Mix one tablespoon of ginger juice and one tablespoon of honey with two tablespoon of fenugreek seeds soaked in water overnight to prepare a solution. This solution should be taken twice daily in the morning and evening for the detoxification of the lungs.
3. During an asthma attack a massage given with hot mustard oil in which camphor has been added has been known to be beneficial in alleviating the symptoms. This massage can be repeated several times a day.
4. Figs soaked overnight in water should also be taken in the morning for its nutritional benefits which can help in the drainage of the phlegm and reducing the problems in breathing.
5. Another great remedy is to boil 10 to 15 cloves of garlic in milk and drinking this milk at least once a day. This remedy can effectively clear out the congestion in your lungs and also provides quick relief from the symptoms of asthma.
6. There are anecdotal evidence suggesting the use of hot coffee in preventing and controlling asthma attacks. Strong and hot coffee can also clear out the airways and relax the breathing. One cup of hot black tea is also known to offer same benefits.
7. Pure essential eucalyptus oil is also effective in treating the asthma symptoms. A few drops of eucalyptus oil are kept on a paper towel and kept close to head while sleeping so that breathing si facilitated while sleeping. One or two drops of eucalyptus oil can also be added to steaming hot water and then the steam is inhaled to clear out the air passage.
