Asthma is an inflammatory response in the airways of the lungs. The increased amounts of mucus and tightening muscles around the airways make breathing difficult, as do the higher levels of mucus and constricted airways.
Individuals who have asthma can use natural and herbal treatments or natural remedies to manage their everyday symptoms. However, individuals should only utilize these to support their medical treatment strategy, not as a replacement for it.
We’ve covered all you need to know about asthma remedies in this post, from yoga to aromatherapy, as well as their benefits and drawbacks.
Before trying any home remedy for asthma, it is essential to speak to a doctor first. This is because some treatments may interact with medication or make symptoms worse. It is also vital to have an emergency plan in place in case of an asthma attack.
Yoga And Meditation:
Yoga has been shown in studies to be a beneficial home treatment for asthma. Results demonstrate that people with asthma who engaged in asana, or physical yoga postures, and meditation had:
- Reduced bronchoconstriction
- Lowered airway inflammation
- Increased lung function
Aromatherapy:
Aromatherapy is another possible home remedy for asthma. One study found that when people with asthma inhaled the essential oil of ginger, their airways dilated more than when they breathed in a placebo oil.
Other research has shown that eucalyptus oil may also help to open up the airways and make breathing easier for people with asthma.
However, it is still unclear how effective these treatments are, and further research is needed. Additionally, it is important to be cautious when using essential oils as they can cause skin irritation or an allergic reaction in some people.
Herbal Teas:
Ginger, turmeric, and licorice root teas have all been traditionally used to treat asthma. These herbs are thought to help by:
- Reducing inflammation
- Opening up the airways
- Calming the nervous system
- Soothing mucus membranes
It is essential to speak to a doctor before taking any of these herbs, as they can interact with medications. Additionally, some of these herbs may not be suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Homeopathy:
Homeopathy is a system of medicine that uses diluted substances from plants, minerals, or animals to treat illness. Homeopathy is based on the belief that like cures like and that a substance that causes symptoms in a healthy person can also help to treat those same symptoms in an ill person.
There is little scientific evidence to support the efficacy of homeopathy, and it should not be used in place of conventional medical treatment.
Acupuncture:
Acupuncture is a type of Chinese medicine that employs thin needles to insert into specific areas on the body. It’s occasionally used as an add-on therapy for asthma.
A systematic review of studies found that acupuncture may improve quality of life and reduce symptoms in people with asthma, but more research is needed.
As with any complementary therapy, it is essential to speak to a doctor before trying acupuncture, as it may interact with medications or other treatments.
Dietary Changes:
Certain dietary changes may also help to ease asthma symptoms. For example, some people find that eliminating dairy helps to reduce mucus production and coughing.
Other foods that may trigger asthma symptoms include:
- Eggs
- Nuts
- Soy
- Wheat
- Fish
- Shellfish
It is essential to identify any triggers and work with a doctor or dietitian to create an asthma-friendly diet plan.
Quit Smoking:
Smoking is one of the leading risk factors for developing asthma. It can also make existing asthma symptoms worse. Quitting smoking is essential for managing asthma and preventing further damage to the lungs.
The Bottom Line:
While there are many possible home remedies for asthma, it is essential to speak to a doctor before trying any of them. Some treatments may interact with medication or make symptoms worse. Additionally, it is important to have an emergency plan in place in case of an asthma attack.
If you are struggling to manage your asthma, talk to your doctor about other treatment options that may be suitable for you.
