Herbs For Asthma
Guidelines for Using Herbs for Asthma
Over 300 million people are estimated to currently suffer from a breathing disorder called asthma, and while prescription medications are used by many to relieve the symptoms, many others use various herbs for asthma relief. The safety of doing so is a matter of contention among many medical professionals, however; arising from the fact that their effectiveness is unproven by federal standards.
Asthma is a condition of the respiratory system, namely the lungs, in which the airway passages become inflamed and constricted. Normal airways, the tube like vessels which carry air into and out of the lungs, are wide open to allow the required amount of air. Individuals who have asthma have highly sensitive airways that react quickly and drastically when they breathe in certain substances. Their airways swell as muscles tighten in respond to these elements, leaving very little room for the passage of necessary air to reach the lungs. When this happens, symptoms occur that can range from simple wheezing to life threatening lack of air. Certain triggers bring on the symptoms; triggers that will vary from person to person. It could be airborne allergens like pollens, colds and flu, secondhand smoke, food additives, exercise, cold air or even particular medications.
Because asthma is not a curable disorder, individuals who suffer from this condition will require medication for their entire life in order to successfully manage it. They must be constantly on the alert for an episode that can leave them gasping for breath. Treating the symptoms at their earliest appearance helps to prevent worsening of the wheezing and shortness of breath. Medications bring relief from the symptoms, but cannot keep future attacks from occurring. One of the claims for using herbs for asthma is that they not only relieve the symptoms of the disorder, but actually help to strengthen the individual’s immune system and lungs to help lessen the frequency and severity of the flare-ups.
Herbs that are most commonly used are Echinacea, Gingko, chamomile, elecampane, anise, ginger, peppermint, passionflower, mullein, magnolia, rehmannia and don quai. Some of these herbs act as antihistamines, working to keep air passages open by battling the body’s extraneous release of histamines. Others, such as chamomile, are thought to slow the body’s responses to the allergic reactions. Certain herbs are meant to relieve anxiety and stress, which can compound the problem of constricted airways. Gingko has a long history in its use as a reliever of bronchial inflammation; it is often used in China in much that same way as bronchial inhalers are used in the United States.
Another herb that is thought of more as a vegetable but is highly effective in dilating bronchial passages is the common onion. Drinking a juice made from onions on a daily basis can keep asthma attacks at bay; if consuming the juice is an unpleasant aspect, it can be simply eaten with meals. Using the herbs for asthma relief every day is thought to help support the immune system, and a stronger immune system will provide greater reinforcement against the allergens that are known to trigger episodes.
It is important for those who have asthma to discuss any herbal therapy at length with their doctor. While there can be no doubt that herbs have a valuable place in our health, using them in place of or in addition to certain medications can have serious effects. It is also important to realize that other steps should be taken to avoid the triggers. Avoiding dairy products, using air purifiers, staying away from foods with preservatives or additives and cleaning the home so it is free from dust, mold and mildew will all assist in preventing attacks.
Herbs for asthma relief may prove to be quite effective for many; however, it is vital to discuss its safety with your medical professional to ensure that it will be effective and safe for your use.