Natural remedies for asthma are regarded as the safest and most effective methods of treatment. In fact, these days natural is the way to go. For ensuring a healthy existence, you should eat natural, drink natural and even think natural; so why not cure yourself naturally too? Here is an extensive account of what you should do to prevent asthmatic attacks, but of course naturally.
You Are What You Eat
1.Herbs and nutritional supplements: Butterbur, Boswellia (‘Salai Guggal’ in Indian Ayurveda), Bromelain are some of the herbs which are believed to cure asthma. Butterbur helps in reducing the severity and duration of asthma attacks. Butterbur has its side effects like indigestion, headache, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or constipation. Pregnant women or people suffering from liver or kidney diseases should avoid this herb. Boswellia controls the production of leukotrienes which is responsible for narrowing the airways in the lungs. However, its intake may lead to nausea, acid reflux, diarrhea and digestive problems. Bromelain contains anti-inflammatory properties and people with allergies to pineapples should stay away from it. It may cause digestive upset and allergic reactions. Fish oil products, magnesium supplements, antioxidants (green tea supplements, Vitamin E), chamomile, rosemary, thyme, spearmint, cloves, etc. are other cures for respiratory ailments. Though it must be mentioned here that the effectiveness of all these herbs and supplements is still under question.
2.Fruits and Vegetables: Add fresh fruits and vegetables to your menu. Go for whole wheat foods (breads, pastas). Fats and sugars must be avoided. Caffeine and caffeine products are a big no-no. Honey and lime juice are magical solutions for you. Dairy products, seafood and eggs should be in your ‘don’ts’ list.
Your Environment
Smoking, be it active or passive, is an environmental hazard for you, something you should steer clear of completely. Pollution is another one.
Other Therapies
1. Yoga: It is a tried and tested method for centuries now. The only thing you lose by practicing yoga is your stress, weight and your illness. The plethora of asanas (postures), kriyas and breathing exercises can benefit you mentally, socially and physically. Besides curing your asthma, yoga can improve your body posture, confidence, flexibility, muscle strength and concentration.
2. Acupuncture/Acupressure: Acupuncture refers to a treatment where needles are inserted into points in the body to relieve pain by the act of stimulation. It is said to have adverse effects like transmission of infections like hepatitis and AIDS. Acupressure is considered to be a safer option than acupuncture. It follows the same procedure, the difference being that instead of needles, here pressure is applied on specific areas of the body.
3. Weight Loss: Obesity is linked to the factors that cause asthma. Loss of weight stimulates the functioning of lungs.
4. Biofeedback: It is a system which uses electronic devices that help you to assess your health levels. For asthma patients, the heart rate variability (HRV) is measured since it has an influence on the functioning of lungs.
If you still aren’t sure about these treatments, consult your doctor. At the end of the day, natural remedies for asthma remain an alternative and not an obligation.