Home Remedies for Asthma

Asthma is a pain for many, especially in the spring and fall and often this means trips to the doctor and a  pharmacy and all of that usually means paying high prices for an asthma remedy. But, there are other, safer and less expensive ways to treat asthma.

Asthma is a lung condition that is chronic and causes the sufferer to have great difficulty breathing. When one suffers from asthma, the airways of the lungs become agitated and inflamed. The muscles surrounding the lungs tighten and then mucus is produced and when that happens the airways are narrowed. Asthma can be hazardous to one’s health and often a doctors help is needed. Wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, chest pain, difficulty when sleeping and tightness in the chest are some of the symptoms.

Examples of natural remedies for asthma are: eating more tomatoes, leafy vegetables and carrots. In studies conducted long ago, they found that those who ate such a diet had a lower rate of getting asthma. And, some also think that by eating more apples, asthma may be prevented. 

Butterbut is another home remedy that helps some with asthma. It is an herb that has the ingredients petasin and isopetasin inside; ingredients that seem to help smooth out muscle spasms and bring about an anti-inflammatory effect. It is an herb that grows in North America, Europe and Asia. But one should be aware that there are side effects from this plant such as vomiting, nausea and fatigue.

Bromelain is an extract that comes from pineapples. Some think that it also has anti-inflammatory properties within it. Studies at the University of Connecticut have found that Bomelain reduced airway inflammation in animals; animals that had an allergic air way disease. Of course, if one has an allergy to pineapples, this should not be tried. Side effects from Bromelain can be digestive problems and allergic reactions.

Bowwellia is an herb that is known and used in India. Studies have found that Boswellia helps to inhibit the formation of compounds; compounds that are found in the lungs. Years ago a study was done with Boswellia—with 40 people who suffered with asthma—and were treated with a Boswellia extract three times a day for six weeks. At the end of this period, 70 percent of these people improved. There were less symptoms of breathing difficulties and the amount of attacks. However, these studies did not show what levels of Boswellia were safe and effective and how this treatment interacted with other asthma treatments. So, if considering this treatment option, be sure to check out all information available.

Another interesting note concerning asthma is that some studies have shown that being overweight is a significant risk factor for asthma. Still another homeopathic way to help ease asthma symptoms is figs. Figs help bring comfort to the asthma patient by draining off the phlegm.  When using this method, clean the figs thoroughly with warm water and soak them overnight.

Lemons can also help with asthma. Take the juice of one lemon, dilute it with a glass of water and take with meals. Should bring good results. Ginger also helps. Take a teaspoon of fresh ginger juice, mix it with a cup of fenugreek decoction, add honey to taste and you may find helpful results.

For more information on asthma and home remedies, there are many helpful and informative articles online and for more in-depth questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.