Asthma is a lung condition that affects close to 17 million people, both adults and children, in the United States alone. Fortunately, there are a number of natural remedies for asthma for those of you averse to using medication. Here are the 17 most effective ones:
Weight Loss
A lot of research has been conducted into the link between asthma and obesity. Studies have found that losing weight helps alleviate asthma symptoms. Fortunately, this is one area that could be controlled through careful diet and regular exercise.
Avoid Dairy Products
Changing your eating habits is another great way to control asthma naturally. Of the various food groups, dairy products are most likely to trigger asthma attacks. Dairy products increase the production of mucus that can cause a number of side effects, including blocking your air passageway. Where possible, try to limit dairy food intake (eg. eggs and milk) in your diet. (1)
Avoid Processed Foods
Another food group that you should completely avoid as far as possible is processed foods. These foods typically contain preservatives, additives and food coloring. Certain chemicals contained in these foods, such as MSG and tartrazine, are asthma triggers. (2)
Get an Air Purifier
Airborne contaminants, allergens and dust can worsen your asthma and allergies. You need to make sure that the air inside your home is clean. Get an air purifier with high Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) ratings, ideally one made for asthma sufferers. Personally, I use the Alen Breathesmart (Alen Breathesmart Review) and have been a loyal fan.
Honey
One of the most effective natural treatments for asthma is honey. Honey directly treats the wheezing and cough that come along with asthma while smoothing the muscles and membranes of your airway. Experience its effect by mixing 40ml of basil leave juice and 25ml of honey.
Ginger
Ginger is known to remedy several ailments including asthma. It stops the swelling of the airways, allowing air to flow easily and freely. However, you need to consult your doctor before using this herb, especially for those with diabetes. To use ginger for asthma, steep this herb for 15 minutes in water.
Apples
Apples strengthens the lungs of those with asthma. One study showed that when an expectant mother eats four or more apples, it decreases the risk of the baby having asthma by 50 percent.
Lemons
The Vitamin C found in lemons and oranges lowers the risks of asthma attacks and inflammation of the bronchial passageways. A research study found that children who eat citrus fruits every week experience a significant decrease in symptoms of asthma.
Licorice Root
Another effective natural treatment for asthma is the licorice root, specifically for bronchial asthma. This herb works as an anti-inflammatory, antiviral and antibacterial superfood as well as an antioxidant. Its multiple properties helps in reducing the symptoms of asthma. Consult your physician first before using this herb as it does not not work well for people with kidney disease, high blood pressure and liver conditions. (3)
Ma Huang
This herb may not be commonly known but it can be effective. This plant is usually found in Mongolia and Central Asia. Ma Huang clears the passageway of the air allowing it to pass without problems. It is highly advised that you use this herb only after consulting your physician.
Yerba Santa
The leaves of Yerba Santa are used to treat ailments. The most remarkable property of this herb is its ability to eliminate mucus from the body by thinning it. It does not only help treat asthma but other respiratory diseases as well, such as bronchitis, colds and laryngitis.
Pineapple Extract
Pineapple extract has a compound bromelain that is known to have anti-inflammatory effects. It is used to treat mild asthma but should not be solely relied on. Taking pineapple extract should be done with precaution as this can cause allergic reaction to some.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Increase your intake of omega-3 fatty acids. Make it a point to consume foods rich in Omega-3 like fish, lean red meat, turkey and broccoli. It helps in decreasing the inflammation of your air passageways.
Butterbur
This plant is found mainly in North America, Asia and Europe. This plant has an inflammatory property which makes breathing easy. Some have experienced lesser frequency of asthma attacks. However, those who are allergic to marigold, ragweed, chrysanthemum and daisy should stay away from this.
Boswellia
One of the most effective natural treatments for asthma is boswellia. The ability of this plant to reduce inflammation will be enhanced if used together with turmeric and licorice root. However, this plant should be avoided if you are taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication.
Spikenard
This is another herb that promotes remedy for asthma. It has anti-inflammatory, expectorant and antimicrobial effects.
Buteyko Breathing Technique
This technique was developed by Konstantin Pavlovich Puteyko, a Russian researcher. This is a breathing exercise that involves shallow breathing. It causes the airway muscles to dilate due to the increase in the flow of carbon dioxide in the blood vessels. (4)
These natural treatments for asthma do not totally cure asthma but can help in alleviating symptoms significantly. Before consuming any of these herbs and plants, as always, be sure to check in with your doctor first.
About the Author
Janet Miller is a work at home mom of four. She is always searching for the Best Air Purifier and writes for a leading review blog for homemakers.
